Planning an event can be overwhelming most especially if it’s a wedding, corporate function, or milestone celebration. One of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right caterer.
Award-winning caterers bring experience, creativity, and professionalism, but not all all of them are the same. Asking the right questions befors choosing one can help you choose the best caterer who will make your event seamless, memorable, and enjoyable for your guests.
Here are five important questions you should ask before hiring a caterer:
1. What types of events do you specialise in?
Award-winning caterers often have areas of expertise, and knowing their specialisations can help you determine if they are the right fit for your event. Some caterers focus on large-scale corporate functions, gala dinners, or public events, while others are best for weddings, intimate celebrations, or private parties.
When evaluating a caterer, try considering the following:
- Event scale: Do they have experience managing both small gatherings and large guest lists?
- Event type: Have they handled weddings, corporate conferences, or public events similar to the ones you’re planning?
- Style and presentation: Are they comfortable with formal plated meals, buffet-style service, or interactive food stations?
A good example to this is that Peter Rowland Group has extensive experience across corporate, public, and private events, giving them the versatility to adapt menus, service, and logistics to a variety of event types.
Asking for examples of similar events they’ve managed can give you confidence that they can meet your expectations and deliver a seamless catering experience.
Here are five important questions you should ask before hiring a caterer:
Every guests has different dietary requirements, preferences, and considerations. A caterer’s ability to customise their menus only shows that they are flexible enough to serve your needs.
Ask whether they can provide options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other dietary needs. Additionally you should discuss any theme-specific or seasonal menu ideas they may offer.
A high-quality caterer will offer you solutions without compromising the taste or presentation and ensure that every guest enjoys the experience.
3. What services are included beyond food?
Award-winning catering often goes beyond simply delivering meals. Many of them offer full-service solutions, including professional staff, tableware, glassware, serving equipment, and even setup and cleanup.
It’s important to clarify exactly what is included in your package and if there are any additional services come at an extra cost. Some caterers can also provide advice on décor, layout, and logistics, helping your event feel cohesive and polished.
Knowing these details in ahead of time will prevent surprises on the day and ensures your expectations are met.
4. How do you handle event logistics and venue coordination?
A great caterer doesn’t just deliver food they also manage logistics efficiently. When hiring a caterer, ask about their experience with different venues and how they coordinate with other event vendors, including florists, audio-visual teams, and venue staff.
Caterers with established partnerships with venues often ensure smoother operations, as they are familiar with venue restrictions, setup timelines, and service flow. This level of coordination reduces stress and helps the event run seamlessly from start to finish.
5. Can you provide references or examples of past events?
Reviewing past events, client testimonials, and portfolios gives valuable insight into a caterer’s capabilities and reliability. Ask for photos or sample menus of similar events.
Many award-winning caterers, including Peter Rowland Group, highlights how they’ve customised menus, managed large guest lists, and created memorable experiences.
References provide reassurance that the caterer can deliver the quality and service promised.
Extra Tips When Choosing a Caterer
- Plan ahead: Award-winning caterers are often in high demand, so book as early as possible.
- Clarify contracts: Ensure all details, including menu, staff, equipment, and service fees, are clearly outlined in your contracts.
- Visit tastings: Whenever possible, schedule a tasting to evaluate quality and presentation.
- While accolades shouldn’t be the only factor, they should reflect consistency and industry recognition.
Final Thoughts
Choosing an award-winning caterer is about more than accolades. It’s about experience, reliability, flexibility, and attention to detail. By asking these five questions, you can have a caterer who will help make your event seamless, memorable, and enjoyable for all your guests.