Q: What Does It Cost?

A: It's the most frequently asked question and the most difficult to 
answer. Followed very closely by, “What do we do if it rains?” but we 
will get to that one later.

The difficulty in answering the cost question is that there are so 
many variations in any one event. It is like asking what a car costs. 
Used or new. Yugo or Mazeratti. DVD Player, GPS system and on and on.

Hopefully this makes sense, so now let’s address some of the 
contributing factors to the cost of a catered event…

Food—Shrimp & Tenderloin, Salmon & Roast Beef, Vegetarian - 
Variations in food cost are most commonly based on the types of food 
and quantities

Time of day—For events scheduled during mealtimes, etiquette 
dictates the host should provide a meal.  Light hors d’oeuvres and 
desserts are appropriate for off-hour events.

Staffing—Does our menu require onsite work?  What is the necessary 
server to guest ratio based events of this type?

Venue—What does your venue offer? Full packages or hourly rates?  
Catering kitchen or just some space to work from?  Set up time 
included or extra?  Tables and chairs?

Rentals—Do we need tables, chairs, linens, china, silver and 
glassware? Are special delivery and pickups required?