Be sure to ask prospective food vendors the following questions

How will the caterer and his crew execute that difficult dish?

• Will a particular dish be appropriate, or affordable, for a large crowd?

• What style of food presentation do they recommend a seated dinner? Buffet? Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres?

• How do they intend to keep food hot?

• How will they cope if the cocktail hour runs long?

• Have they previously catered at your reception site?

• How large is their staff and what will they wear while they’re serving?

• Are tables, chairs, linens, china, glassware and flatware included in their service, and is there a choice of colors and patterns?

• Do they carry liability insurance?

• Will they be responsible for complete setup and cleanup, from start to finish?

• Do they have a license to serve alcoholic beverages, and will their staff provide complete bar service?

• Do they charge a flat fee for all services rendered or do they change per guest?

• Will there be written confirmation once all the details of the reception have been discussed and laid out?

• When will they need a final count of your guests?

Note: Once you’ve found a caterer you and your fiancé like, make an appointment to sample some of his dishes (this is the fun part!). Be sure to notice not only taste and freshness but presentation--the food should look utterly appetizing.