Top 3 Reasons to Hire Professional Caterers for Your Special Occasion

Posted on December 11, 2018 by cateringfft17

Whether it is a wedding, Bar Mitzvah, family reunion, or similar noteworthy occasion, food is generally a focal point, and even highly anticipated. As the appointed party planner, this leaves you with a few options for food service. You can either cook the food and prepare the setup yourself; go with a “pot luck” approach and request that each guest contribute a dish of their own; or you can skip all the hassle and outsource professional catering services.

Although the first two options are not terrible ideas, they are not as sophisticated and tasteful dining selections for special occasions like weddings and other significant milestones. Self-catering and potlucks are great for informal events like backyard barbecues and family picnics, but not formal enough for a traditional ceremony or elegant gathering.

And this is just the introductory reason as to why you should hire professional caterers for your special occasion. Continue reading to learn the top 3 reasons why professional catering is best for formal events.

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❶ You Will Save Time and Avoid Hassle

Every detail of the preparation, presentation, menu, serving, and more are all thought out and taken care of by the professional catering company. Not having to waste time considering all of these details can truly reduce the stress and pressure a person can feel when planning a large event. Professional caters are extensively experienced in controlling the entire food process; from menu options to serving staffs.

Not only do they care for all the food planning and preparation, caters bring their own supplies, equipment, and often times, linens. This means napkins, utensils, plate ware, glasses, table cloths, condiments, serving dishes, and more are all provided by the catering service. Not only does this save loads of time and energy, it can save money as well. Purchasing all these items for one event can cost upwards of thousands of dollars. By outsourcing a catering company, they bring their own supplies and you do not waste money on items you will only need for one day or night.

❷ Professional Wait Staffs Take Care of Guests

Not only does having a professional serving staff scream elegance, it cares for many aspects of the catering job. For example, all catering servers are highly trained waiters and waitresses that have extensive experience in banquet-style serving. They come in full uniform, cleaned and pressed. They are there to cater to every guest’s needs; from refilling drinks to serving course after course, pre-bussing, re-stocking salad bars and serving dishes, and much more. Also, they are there to ensure there is enough food for everyone, and that everyone gets a hot plate no matter what happens.

❸ Breakdown and Cleanup is Covered

Professional serving staffs can also handle breakdown and cleanup. They will remain after the gathering to cleanup dishes, bus tables, remove dirty linens, replace chairs and tables to their original locations, break down serving stations, vacuum, dust, spot clean, and again, much more. Not having to wash dishes and cleanup after a party is a reason in itself to hire professional caterers for special occasions.

Professional Event Catering for All of Georgia

Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510

Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for quality event catering in Newnan, Georgia. We offer a wide range of catering services for all industries, occasions, events, and more. Choose from our popular catering menu, or work with our catering coordinators to customize a menu according to your particular needs and interests. We can also provide assistance with décor, themes, vendors, and more! Call 678-340-0510 to learn more about our Newnan catering services, or to request a free estimate, today!

How to Select Alcohol Service for a Catered Event

Posted on November 28, 2018 by cateringfft17

If you plan on having an upcoming event catered, one of the most important decisions you can make is in regards to alcohol service. To serve or not to serve, and if you plan to serve, how and what should you serve? If these are like the questions running through your mind, continue reading to learn some helpful tips for making the right selections.

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First Make a Plan

There are several steps to take when it comes to making decisions about serving alcohol for a large group event or celebration. Some principle topics to consider when putting a plan together include the estimated head count, the budget, time and date, location, and theme (optional). Once your plan is made, you can choose a bar type, the number of bars you want, and how they will accept payment.

Then Choose a Bar Type

What type of bar do you want available to guests at your event? People do not usually realize there is more than one way to cater alcohol at parties, and even different ways to set up payment. Some of the most popular options include:

↠ Beer and Wine Bar – These bars will only serve choice beers and wines picked out by the host, you, or organizer of the event. This is a more economical choice if the budget is slim but alcohol is a must for your event.

↠ Full Bar – This is the pricier option, but the more fun option, none-the-less. This bar gives you all the advantages of a real bar in an actual restaurant or club. They serve everything from margaritas to Manhattans.

↠ Dry Bar – This is the cheapest option for your large group catering event, because it means there is NO BAR. This is more prevalent for school and church functions.

Decide on a Number of Bar Stations

Most catering companies recommend setting up a bar for every 75 to 100 guests, with the idea of having one bartender for every 75 guests. This is just a recommendation and is not mandatory, but if you want effective bar service at your event, it is suggested to have a sufficient amount of bartenders or bars. This will reduce traffic at the bars as well as long lines.

Choose a Payment Option

There are 3 popular ways to set up payment for your catered bar. You can choose an open bar, cash bar, or ticketed cash bar. A “host bar” is a scenario in which the host (that would be you) pays for all the drinks for the night. This is often referred to as an “open bar” to guests. This can be paid for by the drink, by the bottle, by the hour, or by the person; it all depends on your preference as well as what the catering company offers.

A “cash bar” is a bar set up in which guests pay for their own drinks. A cash bar is also called a “no-host” bar. You can also do a cash bar with tickets, which works by the hosting passing out drink vouchers to guests, who in turn, use them as currency for drinks. Once the vouchers are gone, guests are responsible to pay for their own drinks the remainder of the night.

Note: As far as budget, a cash bar would be the least expensive option because you only have to pay the company providing the service, not the service itself.

Budgeting an Open Bar

If budget is in question, but you really want an open bar, there are a few ways to save money. For example, it is common for the host to put a time limit on the open bar. So drinks are free for a few hours, then the rest of the evening guests are required to pay for their drinks. Another way is to allow beer and wine to be free but require guests to pay for any other type of cocktails or hard liquor.

Another common practice to save money on an open bar is to put a “cap” on the amount spent on the open bar. So the host can tell the bartender or catering company to serve cocktails for free until the cost reaches $1000, and from there, the guests are required to purchase their own drinks.

Newnan Event Catering

Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510

Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for quality event catering in Newnan, Georgia and its surrounding areas like Peachtree City. We offer a wide range of catering services for all industries, occasions, events, and more. Choose from our popular catering menu, or work with our catering coordinators to customize a menu according to your particular needs and interests. We can also provide assistance with décor, themes, vendors, and more!

Helpful Tips for Kosher Catering

Posted on November 12, 2018 by cateringfft17

Kosher catering is a type of food serving that abides by the Kashrut, or the set of Jewish dietary laws. These laws involve hundreds of specifications asserting how Jewish meals should be prepared and served in adherence to the Kashrut. If you are interesting in hosting an event or gathering with kosher foods, but have no experience in kosher dining, you will need to study up!

Start by reviewing some basic, but helpful, tips about kosher catering, including important guidelines and more.

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Kosher is More Than Just Food

Kosher doesn’t just refer to the type of food. It is much more than that. So what exactly makes a meal kosher? The answer is a combination of things! There are several guidelines and rules that go along with kosher food service. These rules include everything from how the animals were put down and portioned, to the utensils and tools used to prepare the meal, and much more.

For instance, kosher meals must be prepared in a kitchen atmosphere that is also compliant with the Kashrut, as certain utensils and kitchen appliances are deemed either kosher or non-kosher. If a kosher item touches a non-kosher item, it cannot be used to prepare the meal. Also, all animals must be slaughtered by a professional that used techniques depicted in the Kashrut. Tools and methods must also be kosher and compliant with the Kashrut.

Kosher is Not Easy

As you can see, there are several complicated and difficult guidelines to remember and understand in order to cater a true kosher meal for a group of people. It requires an extensive amount of practice, commitment, and training to become proficient in kosher cooking and food service. For this reason and more, your best course of action is to consult a professional Newnan catering company for expert advice and recommendations. They will retain the knowledge and expertise of all guidelines set forth by the Kashrut, such as food preparation, serving, rules, and more.

In fact, you are better off hiring them for the job! A reputable and skilled catering company can provide full-proof kosher meal preparation, cuisine, and serving, as well as, manage all other important catering aspects of your event. If you want a flawless kosher meal catered for your friends and loved ones, consider hiring a professional catering company that offers custom services for Passover, Rosh Hashanah, Hanukkah, and all other Jewish holidays and occasions.

Specialty Catering in Georgia

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Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for specialty catering in Newnan, Georgia and its surrounding towns. Our expert catering coordinators and Executive chefs specialize in providing tailored menus and themes for all races, religions, ethnicities, and more. We can also accommodate special dietary requests and restrictions, including Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-free, food allergies, and kosher diets. Request a free quote, today!

The Benefits of Catering Trays

Posted on October 26, 2018 by cateringfft17

Whether you are hosting a small party, or planning a magnificent wedding, catering trays are an excellent choice for your occasion! Continue reading to learn the various benefits of catering trays, as well as, some helpful tips for incorporating them at your special event.

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The food portion of any event is one of the most anticipated, which also makes it very important. What better way to satisfy the tastes of all your guests with a wide selection of easily-accessible finger foods? Catering trays offer your event this very advantage, and will certainly please even the pickiest of palate.

There are many additional benefits to using catering trays too. As finger foods go, they are always a crowd pleaser, regardless of how formal or informal the event. Here’s what catering trays can offer your upcoming occasion:

✔ A Variety of Options

Catering trays can contain virtually anything you want, and at any size. There are endless options to choose from, and they can be customized down to the smallest detail. They can all be personalized according to theme, season, personal preference, ethnicity, religion, food allergies, dietary restrictions, and more. Common selections for catering trays include fruits, raw or pickled vegetables, cured or smoked meats, cheese, crackers, breads, nuts, finger sandwiches, hot skewered foods, cookies, brownies, cupcakes, and chocolates.

✔ Great For Virtually Any Event

Catering trays are great options for both informal and formal events. Informal events like business meetings, company picnics, girl’s night, game night, birthday parties, family reunions, baby showers, and more, are all perfectly suited for a spread of catering trays. Events that are more formal, such as weddings, engagement parties, anniversary parties, class reunions, charity balls, and more, are also well-suited for a deluxe spread of catering trays. Whether you are expecting 10 guests, or hundreds, catering trays are a great choice.

✔ Convenience and Peace of Mind

Catering trays will give you ample peace of mind because they are instant crowd pleasers, and they are very cost-effective. Furthermore, ordering and planning for catering trays is easy and stress-free since virtually everything is handled by the catering provider. This gives you more time to coordinate the music, guest list, venue, and décor. This convenient and efficient approach to catering an event is something to truly relish!

Where to Find Reputable Georgia Event Caterers

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Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for Georgia event catering you can trust! We are skilled culinary professionals who specialize in full-service party catering. You can customize everything down to the very last detail, from menus and service, to themes, décor, venues, and more. Request a free consultation, today!

Easy Tips for Catering a Football Party

Posted on September 24, 2018 by cateringfft17

Football season is something we all look forward to every year, giving us more reason to turn your favorites games into a celebration of friends and family. Hosting a football party is a fun responsibility, but still requires some forethought nonetheless. If you want to create a lively, entertaining atmosphere, make sure your guests are accommodated with delicious food and drink! Don’t want to deal with all the hassle? No problem!

Continue reading to learn some simple tips for catering a football party this season!

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✅ Plan the Menu

What kind of party do you want to throw? A big party with a lot of guests? A little get-together? Something informal? Something more formal? The amount of food and the style it is served will depend on these questions and more. If you are going for an informal party with just your closest friends and family, you may prefer a buffet-style menu that offers some American game classics, like wings, sliders, hot dogs, nachos, French fries, dips, and soft pretzels. If you are planning something larger or more formal, you may prefer to incorporate an actual pre-game sit down dinner that serves heartier, full course meals.

✅ Consider the Kids

If there will be children at your football party, it is recommended to create a separate kid-friendly, fuss-free menu that will please even the pickiest of eaters, such as chicken fingers, macaroni and cheese, tater tots, mini corn dogs, hot dogs, and chocolate chip cookies. Furthermore, it will make your game time experience more enjoyable if you provide a separate “kiddie” table that is lower to the ground and easier for children to access. If you have older kids and teens attending, think about appointing them as servers and cleaning helpers!

✅ Set Up a Self-Serve Drink Station

Unless you want to appoint yourself as the designated bartender all day, don’t risk missing any game time moments and set up a self-serve drink station instead. Guests can grab a beer, glass of wine, or a quick cocktail all on their own, without asking you to serve them. Be sure the station has everything needed to serve the drinks you have made available, including ice (freezer, bucket or cooler), bottle opening, wine key, glasses, can/bottle holders, coasters, garnishes (lime wedges, bar olives, etc.), cocktail mixers, and of course, liquor.

How to Really Skip All the Hassle…

Hire a professional Georgia catering company for fast, affordable, and stress-free catering that tastes fantastic!

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Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for professional football party catering in Newnan, Georgia and its surrounding areas, including Peach Tree City, Raymond, Sharpsburg, Arnco Mills, Fayetteville, Whitesburg, Chattahoochee Hills, and more. We offer full-service catering for all sports-themed parties and occasions, along with a wide selection of authentic, custom-made menus and packages, for all corporate and private events. Get started by requesting a free estimate, today.

Catering Tips for Buffets

Posted on August 27, 2018 by cateringfft17

Many people planning a party or event opt for buffet-style service over plated meals. It is a common and popular options because it provides several benefits in terms of convenience, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and much more. However, not every event is best suited for buffet catering, so be sure you know the difference.

If you choose to have buffets at your event, there are some important tips you need to know in order to ensure the best experience possible. Continue reading to learn these tips, including how to determine if your event is a good fit for buffet-style catering.

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Types of Events

As mentioned, not all events are good fits for buffets. For instance, if you are dressing up in black tie and formal wear, you wouldn’t expect to navigate through a buffet and serve yourself at dinner. So to help make the determination between plated meals and a buffet simply consider the type of event you are planning. The general rule of thumb is that the more formal the event, the more you should lean toward plated meals. If your guests are dressing up in jackets, dresses, gowns, or tuxedos, a plated meal service would be more appropriate. However, more laid back events, are well-suited for self-service.

There are some exceptions to this rule, however. The higher the guest count gets, the less practical a buffet will be. Large events with hundreds of guests would not do well with a buffet, regardless of how formal or informal. The amount of time and space needed would be too much. Another exception are weddings. Weddings can be formal, but receptions are usually more informal. Wedding receptions would be well-suited for buffets, so long as the guest list doesn’t exceed 100 guests; then it could become less practical.

When to Choose a Buffet

Buffets are great options for parties that are offering more than one entrée option. This is especially helpful if you are unsure of the dietary restrictions or preferences of all the guests expected to attend. Another example of when buffets are a good choice is when you are planning an event that is not centered on a dinner. For instance, if you are hosting an event with a focus on a certain activity, such as a poker tournament or networking social, a buffet would be the perfect fit since it comes secondary to the main activity.

Quasi Buffet

For some events, having both plated meal service and buffets can be beneficial. This works by having salads and desserts on each place setting prior to guest arrival, followed by a buffet selection of appetizers and main courses. The advantages of a hybrid buffet approach is mostly centered on efficiency and convenience. Not only does it reduce the amount of foot traffic carrying plates from line to table, it makes certain a consistent start time for dinner.

Another optional approach to this type of buffet-service is to incorporate a “captain’s call”, which means that wait staff will alert each table when it is time to take their turn in the buffet line. This is especially helpful for events with a large guest count.

Professional Event Caterers You Can Trust

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Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for Newnan event catering at an affordable price. We are seasoned culinary specialists with a passion to serve excellent meals with the highest level of professionalisms. Choose from our popular catering menu, or work with our catering coordinators to customize a menu according to your particular needs and interests. We can also provide assistance with décor, themes, vendors, and more! Request a free estimate, today.

The Benefits of Farm to Table Catering

Posted on August 10, 2018 by cateringfft17

Have you ever noticed that fruit picked straight from the vine is more enjoyable than the fruit you pick up at the grocery store? Or that farmers’ markets seem to always have the best meat and produce? The reason behind these scenarios is due to the simple fact that local foods are just better. They don’t travel a far distance, so they retain their freshness and quality.

Aside from taste and quality, there are several additional advantages of farm-to-table dining. If you are planning to cater an upcoming event or party, consider farm to table cuisine for a healthy and delicious alternative that will be sure to pleasantly surprise each and every one of your guests!

Continue reading to learn the most admired benefits of farm-to-table cuisine, and who to call for fresh and local catering service in your town.

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It’s More Nutritious

Local food is healthier because it doesn’t travel for miles and miles before arriving at its retail destination and it is free of preservative chemicals. When it comes to just produce, local yields are not picked early and left to ripen during its transit. So the fresher it is, the more nutritious. And fruits and vegetables that are picked right before consumption retain the highest amount of nutrients and vitamins.

It’s Better for the Environment

Since there is very little transit involved in distributing local foods, farm-to-table cuisine is also good for the environment because it requires less fuel to get the job done. This means less invasive mining for natural resources and less harmful emissions, making it a sustainable practice.

It Supports Animal Welfare

Big, profit-driven companies are known to use inhumane methods of animal management. Independent local farms have smaller operations. Not only do they have the time to pay close attention to their animals, they are naturally committed to the upmost standards of animal welfare and use a concentrated approach to manage their livestock. And healthier happier animals makes for better-tasting cuisine.

It Boosts the Local Economy

When foods are outsourced from other cities and states, it doesn’t help out the local economies at all. Farm-to-table cuisine supports the local economy and gives vendors and farmers the business they need to thrive. At the same time, it keeps the cost of produce and meat down.

It Improves Food-Related Businesses

Since the demand for farm-to-table cuisine is increasing, restaurants and retailers benefit from more business if they have local products on their menus. And because local is cheaper, it also keeps overhead costs down. This is one reason farm-to-table catering has become such a popular option for anyone planning a party or an event. In fact, the trend is even starting to spread to cafeterias and schools too!

Farm-to-Table Caterers Near You

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Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for quality farm-to-table catering in Newnan, Georgia. We provide a wide range of catering selections, all of which combine the freshest ingredients, most authentic flavors, seasonal produce, and current culinary trends. You are guaranteed the best quality cuisines and service, regardless of your event’s size and scope. Request a consultation, today!

Tips for Catering Outdoors This Summer

Posted on July 13, 2018 by cateringfft17

Catering outdoors in the summer heat and sun is much different than catering a party in a restaurant or indoor venue. There are many additional aspects to consider, primarily being guest safety and proper food preservation. Continue reading to learn 5 vital tips for serving food to guests outside in the summer temperatures.

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❶ Maintain Proper Food Temperatures

Food that is to be served warm should stay warm, and food that is to be served cold should be kept cold at all times. This is to prevent your food from spoiling. Spoiled food contain bacteria that can make people very sick. You will need to ensure your food is coupled with the proper equipment and materials to keep it at safe temperatures. This may include coolers, cabinets, carts, ice, ice packs, heat lamps, burners, umbrellas, covers, and more. The general rule of thumb is to keep hot foods above 135 degrees Fahrenheit and cold foods below 41 degrees Fahrenheit.

❷ Do Not Serve Unsafe Foods

There are certain foods that are staples for summer cookouts and picnics, but in the heat, they are not always the safest choice. Foods like deviled eggs, potato salad, and shellfish are not likely to stay fresh throughout the duration of your event. They are more challenging to keep safe because they spoil so quickly in the sun.

❸ Have Plenty of Ice On Hand

On a hot day, ice is key; especially when serving food outdoors. Whatever amount of ice you planned on having at your event, go ahead and double it to be safe. Ice melts quicker than you might think when it is hot outside, and you will need plenty of it for both food preservation and beverages. Keep coolers around filled with ice for backups, and use these reserves to refresh trays, drinks, bars, and more.

❹ Protect Against Insects

Outdoor events that serve food will most certainly attract bugs and other pests. You will need to prepare a plan to protect both your food and your guests from insects. This is especially important if your outdoor event is located right next to a body of water or forest. Use equipment like food covers, netting, candles, and more to thwart insect interference. Also be sure to have extra bug spray and anti-histamines on hand in the case that a guest is affected.

❺ Keep Your Guests Cool

In addition to keeping your food at safe temperatures, you want to also be sure your guests are cool and comfortable during your outdoor event. Plan to have areas of shade using umbrellas, pergolas, or gazebos. You can also set up fans, ice buckets, and more to keep your guests comfortable. Be sure to have plenty of cool drinking water and sports drinks on hand as well.

Trust Our Georgia Catering Professionals for Safe Service!

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Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for Georgia catering services that won’t disappoint! We are skilled culinary professionals who specialize in full-service catering. You can customize everything down to the very last detail, from menus and service, to themes, décor, and more. Call 678-340-0510 to request a free consultation, today!

How Much Food is Enough Food for Your Event?

Posted on June 7, 2018 by cateringfft17

When planning to feed a large crowd, whether a family reunion or a wedding, one of the most common mistakes people make is misreading the amount of food required for all attending guests. Sometimes people order too much food, while others not enough; and both situations are a disaster for any event host. Ordering too much food blows your budget, and wastes money that could have been spent on other event-planning needs, like music, linens, flowers, and china. Ordering too little food can leave your guests hungry, agitated, and eager to leave. Furthermore, it can make your event appear poorly-planned.

So how does one know the appropriate amount of food to order for their event? Fortunately, there are many methods you can use to ensure your event has just the right amount of food for your guests. Continue reading to learn some tips for your next catered event!

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In order to plan the right amount of food for your party, you need to start by consulting with your Georgia catering company. Their professional catering coordinators will sit down with you to fully define your event in detail and ensure they are well-versed in your vision.

To plan for the right amount of food, together you will take 3 important factors into consideration:

❶ Number of Guests
❷ Length of Event
❸ Type of Event

These factors will guide you and your catering director in the right direction to figure out just how much food your guests will need. For example, if you are hosting a casual cocktail party that is meant to last a few hours, you will not need much food. In contrast, if you are planning a family reunion, you will likely need to prepare to feed a lot of people for several hours. In another example, if you are hosting a late-night cocktail party, you likely will not need more than a series of Hors d’oeuvres and appetizers, while a work picnic may require a full course of food and beverage items.

Your caterer will have all the information and knowledge needed to prepare the perfect amount of food for your event. If you are planning to cook all the food yourself, just be sure that each person receives enough food to keep them satiated for the duration of your event. Here is a quick reference guide you can refer to:

Mid-Day Lunch Events:

2 to 4 Appetizers per Person
5 oz. Main Entree per Person
2 to 3 Sides per Person (at least one starch and one vegetable)
1 to 2 beverages per Person

Dinner Events:

3 to 5 Appetizers/Hors D’oeuvres per Person
1 Soup or Salad per Person
7 oz. Main Entree per Person
3 Sides per Person (at least one starch and one vegetable)
2 to 3 Beverages per Person (alcohol, tea, coffee, water, soft drinks, etc.)
2 Servings of Dessert per Person

Georgia Event Catering

Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510

Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for professional event catering in Newnan, Georgia and its surrounding areas, including Peach Tree City, Raymond, Sharpsburg, Woodsmoke, Wood Valley Estates, Arnco Mills, Fayetteville, Whitesburg, Chattahoochee Hills, Palmetto, and more. We offer a wide range of catering services for all industries, occasions, and events. Choose from our popular catering menu, or work with our catering coordinators to customize a menu according to your particular needs and interests. We can also provide assistance with décor, themes, vendors, and more! Request a free estimate, today!

Tips For Tipping Your Caterer

Posted on May 4, 2018 by cateringfft17

In our country, it is customary to tip your server. However, in the catering industry, the obligation to tip is somewhat different from the standard restaurant and bar service industry. The rule of thumb in the service industry is 10% to 20% of your total bill, but when it comes to catering, there is no universally-accepted industry guideline about how much or when to tip.

This does not mean that you should not tip your caterers; in fact, although tips are not mandatory, they are always greatly appreciated in any hourly-paid, service-oriented position. On the other hand, the rules of tipping in the catering industry vary depending on certain factors, including how well they provided their service, what you have already paid for, and much more.

Continue reading to learn some important advice about tipping your caterers.

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What’s in a Tip?

Tipping is a customary act that is meant to tell a person or company “thank you.” They are most commonly given in the food and hospitality industries because many people who work for restaurants and bars are paid a lower-than-average hourly rate (around $3 or so). This means they rely mostly on tips to supplement their income.

In contrast, most caterers are not paid the same as restaurant servers and bartenders. Instead, they are usually paid a reasonable hourly wage, so they are not dependent on tips. So although many caterers are making the state-minimum wage, it is perfectly acceptable (and kind) to tip them if you feel they went above and beyond your expectations.

Gratuity Included

When it comes to tipping caterers, first be sure you have not already been charged for tips. Some catering companies include gratuity on the bill. Whether or not gratuity is automatically added into a catering bills depends on many factors, primarily guest count and the particular business model the company uses. Inclusive gratuity is usually a standard for large events with numerous guests.

It is also important to know that many catering companies also add in a fee called a “service charge” or “production fee”, which is intended to cover any incidental costs. However, these types of fees do not go toward paying servers, bartenders, or caterers. So do not mistake a service charge fee for added gratuity.

Deciding to Tip

When asking yourself whether or not you should tip your caterers, it is important to think about the service they provided. If they did a good job, showed up on time, arrived neatly dressed and ready to work, and met all of your expectations, it is nice to offer a tip. How much to tip is a different consideration, but the standard amounts range between $40 and $150, depending on how many caterers worked your event and the cost of your total bill.

When in Doubt…

If you ever find yourself in doubt about tipping your caterers, just consult your point of contact at your catering company of choice. They will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision, including what the charges are on your bill and how many employees will be working your event. After that, it is all up to you and how you feel about their service.

Newnan Event Catering

Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510

Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for quality event catering in Newnan, Georgia. We provide a wide range of private and business catering selections, from party trays and boxes lunches, to buffets, dinner service, and much more. You can count on us to make your corporate event exactly what you intend for it to be because we customize our catering services around your specific needs. Call 678-340-0510 to request a consultation, today!