Questions to Ask Your Wedding Caterer: A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing the right wedding caterer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning your big day. After all, the food and drink will be a focal point of your celebration and one that your guests will remember. 

Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand affair, asking the right questions will Wedding Caterer help ensure everything goes smoothly. 

At North Shore House, our talented culinary teams offer all of our in house catering and want to help you make the best decisions here are the key questions you should ask to your wedding caterer.

1. What Catering Packages Do You Offer?

All of our reception packages include a fall premium bar champagne toast and 2 signature cocktails. All packages include cocktail hour hors d’ bread/salad entree and a customized wedding cake. 

Helpful Questions to Ask:

• Do you offer buffet, plated, or Cocktail-style services?
• What is the price range for different packages?
• Can we mix and match items from different packages?
• Are there different packages for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner weddings?

At North Shore House, we offer wedding packages that can be customized to include additional food and beverages options, ensuring that your guests enjoy a delicious meal in a beautiful setting.

2. Are You Able to Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

It’s essential to ask your caterer if they can accommodate guests with dietary restrictions. Whether it’s food allergies, or vegetarian, or vegan guests, ensuring everyone is taken care of will make your event more enjoyable.

Important Dietary Questions:

• Can you prepare gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, or dairy-free meals?
• How do you handle cross-contamination for guests with severe allergies?

Working with a caterer who understands dietary needs will ensure that all of your guests feel comfortable and well-fed. Our experienced culinary team at North Shore House can create custom menus to accommodate dietary preferences and provide guests with their own seasonal meals.

3. Can We Customize the Menu?

Many couples want to incorporate their favorite dishes or cultural elements into their wedding menu. Asking about menu customization will help you personalize your meal to suit your tastes.

Customization Tips:

• Can we include a family recipe or signature dish?
• Are seasonal ingredients used in the menu?
• Can we offer a themed menu (e.g., farm-to-table, BBQ, or international cuisine)?

At North Shore House, we emphasize locally sourced ingredients and are happy to work with you to design a menu that reflects your style and preferences. Learn more about our catering options.

4. Do You Offer a Tasting Before the Event?

A tasting session allows you to sample dishes and finalize your wedding menu. This is a critical step in ensuring that the food meets your expectations.

Questions for the Tasting:

• What is included in the tasting?
• How many dishes can we sample?
• Are tastings included in the cost, or is there an extra fee?

A tasting will give you confidence in your food choices and allow you to adjust any dishes if needed. At North Shore House, our catering team offers tastings to help you select the perfect menu for your big day.

5. What Is Included in the Catering Service?

Catering services often include more than just food preparation. It’s important to understand exactly what you are paying for and what is included in the package.

Key Service Inclusions to Ask About:

• Do you provide tables, chairs, linens, and flatware?
• Will there be a team to serve the food and clean up afterward?
• How many wait staff will be present for my event?

Knowing what is included will help you avoid hidden fees and ensure that all necessary services are covered. North Shore House includes tables and chairs, linens, Lenox china, flatware and glassware, tables, and a full wait staff.

6. How Will the Food Be Served?

The way food is served can affect both the atmosphere and flow of your event. Some couples prefer a formal plated dinner, while others may opt for a more relaxed buffet-style or cocktail style meal.

Service Style Questions:

• Can we have a cocktail style reception with passed appetizers?
• What are the pros and cons of plated vs. buffet service?

At North Shore House, we provide various service options to match the tone and style of your wedding, from elegant plated meals to casual buffet spreads. And even cocktail style events.

7. How is Alcohol Provided?

Alcohol service is an important aspect of many wedding celebrations. Make sure to discuss your bar package and any legal requirements regarding alcohol service.

Bar Service Questions:

• Do you offer bar packages, and what is included?
• Are bartenders included in the service?
• Can you provide specialty cocktails or signature drinks?

Providing a full bar or specialty drink station can elevate your wedding experience. North Shore House includes a full premium bar and two signature cocktails in our reception packages. Check out our venue options to explore how we can help to customized bar venue for your wedding. North Shore House does not allow outside alcohol on the property.

Conclusion:

Benefits and easier on the couple that North Shore House includes all-in-house catering for their planning your dream wedding. By asking the right questions, you can ensure that your wedding menu reflects your personal tastes and meets the needs of all your guests. 

At North Shore House, our wedding caterer team is dedicated to providing delicious, locally sourced meals that will enhance your wedding experience.

If you’re ready to start planning your wedding, contact us today to learn more about our customizable wedding packages and catering options. Let us help you create the perfect culinary experience for your special day.