10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Caterer

When planning a wedding, corporate gathering, or private celebration, hiring the right caterer can make or break your event. Food is often the centerpiece of the experience — it brings people together, creates memories, and speaks volumes about your event's quality.

But how do you know if a caterer is the right fit for your needs? Before signing any contract, here are 10 essential questions to ask before hiring a caterer:

1. Are You Available on My Event Date?

It sounds simple, but availability is the first hurdle. If a caterer is already booked or doesn’t have the capacity for your event, it's best to find out early.

2. What Types of Events Do You Specialize In?

Some caterers focus on weddings, while others may specialize in corporate events, intimate dinner parties, or large-scale galas. Ask what events they most frequently cater to see if they’re aligned with your needs.

3. Can You Accommodate Dietary Restrictions and Preferences?

Whether your guests are vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or have food allergies, your caterer should be able to provide delicious options that suit everyone’s needs.

4. Do You Offer Tastings?

Tastings are a great way to experience the quality, flavor, and presentation of a caterer’s food. Many reputable caterers offer this as part of their package (sometimes for a fee that’s credited to your booking).

5. What Services Are Included in Your Catering Package?

Some caterers provide full-service catering (including waitstaff, bartenders, rentals, and clean-up), while others only handle food preparation and delivery. Be clear about what's included — and what will cost extra.

6. How Is Pricing Structured?

Ask for a detailed breakdown of costs, including per-person pricing, service charges, gratuity, overtime fees, and cancellation policies. Clear pricing prevents unexpected surprises down the road.

7. Can You Customize the Menu?

A good caterer will work with you to design a menu that fits your event’s theme, cultural background, or personal tastes. Flexibility is key — especially for milestone events like weddings or anniversaries.

8. Do You Provide Bar Service?

If you're planning to serve alcohol, find out whether the caterer provides licensed bar service, bartenders, and drink packages — or if you'll need to coordinate that separately.

9. Do You Have Liability Insurance and Health Permits?

Ensure the caterer has all the proper licenses, health permits, and liability insurance. This not only protects you legally but also speaks to their professionalism and standards.

10. Can I See Reviews or Speak with Past Clients?

Reputable caterers should have a portfolio, online reviews, or client testimonials. Some may even connect you with past clients willing to share their experiences.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a caterer is a big decision, but asking the right questions up front ensures your event goes smoothly — and your guests leave full and happy.

Whether you're planning a wedding in Phoenix, a corporate event in Scottsdale, or a backyard party anywhere in the Valley, Crafted Cuisine LLC is happy to walk you through every step.

Need help planning your menu? Contact us today for a consultation or tasting — let’s make your event unforgettable.

📞 Call: 602-880-1676📧 Email: sales@craftedcuisinellc.com🌐 Website: craftedcuisinellc.com