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.
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.