8 Questions to Ask a Catering Company When You Need Catering for a Company Christmas Party

Unless you know how to hire the best catering company for your company Christmas party chances are that you will find yourself spending more money on the party food than you really should be spending. Before you hire a catering company, it is highly recommended that you ask them a few important questions. The answers to those questions will help you ensure that you choose the right caterer for your company Christmas party.

Following are 8 questions that you should ask a catering company when you need catering for a company Christmas party:

1. Does the Catering Company Have a License?

This is one of the first questions you should ask because if the caterer has a license then it means they have liability insurance and they have met the standards of the local health department. It is also recommended that you make sure that the catering company has a liquor license. Anyone that serves alcohol needs to have insurance. This is because if your guests leave your company Christmas party and get themselves in trouble afterwards due to alcohol consumption, then you can be held responsible. You can minimize the risk of it happening via liquor liability insurance.

2. Has the Catering Company References from Previous Customers?

Asking the caterer if they have references from previous customers is also recommended. You should ask for at least two references and contact them so you can gather insights about whether choosing that caterer is the right decision.

3. Does the Catering Company Come with Full Service?

When a catering company offers full service, it means that they will handle everything (in addition to food preparation), from bar service to setting the tables and even cleaning up.

4. Do They Specialize in Different Types of Food, Such as Locally Sourced or Organic or Gluten-Free?

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It is highly recommended that you hire a catering company that specializes in serving the particular cuisine that you have in mind for your company Christmas party.

5. Are They Working Any Other Parties or Events on the Same Day?

While it may sound like a silly question, catering companies often book two or more events on the same day. Although this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t hire them, it is recommended that you be sure that your Christmas party will get the attention and staff it needs in case the catering company is working other parties or events on the same day.

6. How Much Time Will They Need to Set Up?

This is a very important question to ask as the answer will help you determine how to properly coordinate with your party venue and know when the catering company can start setting up.

7. Do They Offer Tastings Before They Are Selected?

You want to taste the food by the catering company you selected just to be sure. It is recommended that you do it beforehand as it will help you make an informed decision and prevent you from getting locked in with a catering company that you don’t like.

8. Do They Have Extra Charges?

Any additional charges from the catering company are going to affect your budget. That’s why it is recommended that you inquire about them ahead of time just in case.

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