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The venue you have selected will have some impact on the caterer you choose. Your reception site may require that you work within their list of preferred vendors, while others allow clients to bring in their caterer of choice.

What serving style are you looking for? Serving styles generally include plated meals, passed hors d'oeuvres, food stations or buffet. Some clients choose a combination of these choices. Plated meals are more controlled from a timing standpoint, and this style is more formal.

If you feel your guests would enjoy the freedom to move about the room, perhaps a buffet or series of food stations will be better suited for you. A benefit to the buffet or food station style of serving food is that it affords the newlyweds more opportunity to mingle and visit with their guests.

Do you have a meal in mind? While most caterers can offer a variety of cuisine, there are those caterers that specialize in ethnic cuisine, barbeque, sushi or vegetarian menus. You might use that to narrow down your choice.

Start the interview process. Ask for referrals from event professionals who have experience with the quality, style and organization of the caterers they work with. Credentials count! Are they licensed and insured? How long have they been in business? An experienced caterer will manage any wedding day surprises with finesse.

Discuss what rental items you will need for the event: tables, chairs, linens, tableware, and so on. Find out if it is up to you to provide these items. You'll need to discuss any special needs you and your guests may have (e.g. vegetarian, sugar-free menu items, food allergies), and the costs associated with these. Most caterers will require a final count at least two weeks in advance; find out about all deadlines and due dates. To avoid disappointment on the day make sure you test the menu you decide upon before confirming it

Regardless of the serving style you choose, a festive event is the goal of every couple. Looking out into the room filled with your closest family and friends who are celebrating this day with you is a feast for you-and your heart.

Wyoming Bride Staff