Article created and provided by Chef Crusco Catering in Austin, Texas
As we have mentioned in previous articles, choosing a professional and reputable catering company can make or break your event, so it is well worth knowing the signs of quality. In the final part of our 6 part series on how to secure a reputable catering company, this article touches upon the 7 signs of professionalism and the quality to look for when searching for your event partner.
- Financial Platform
Did you receive a bill through zelle or an estimate via email? Be wary if so. Professional Estimates, Refunds and Invoices should all be handled through an online financial platform like QuickBooks Online so that when there are issues or questions it can be clearly communicated and shared online with inquring customers.
2. Proof of Certificates
Often times customers require catering at a third party event space. These event spaces require Certificates of Insurance so make sure they carry it. Also, make sure their staff carry Certificates of Food Safety & Beverage Consumption. These include the following: Food Manager Certificates for Chefs and TABC and TFSM Certificates for Servers and Bartenders.
3. Professional Work Space
Often we hear of chefs moonlighting as “private chefs and caterers”. And too often customers share nightmare stories of these chefs leaving them without any notice. One way to find out if your event partner is moonlighting or running a reputable company is to ask about their work space. Make sure they have a local Kitchen (like Wingman Kitchens) or a Commissary that they consistently work out of.
4. References or Testimonials
A good caterer will have consistent and positive feedback with online platforms. Always look for high quality ratings and detailed reviews as well as photos from real events. Testimonials that mention reliability, communication, food quality, and service is always a plus.
5. Consistent Branding and B2B Collaborations
What type of branding do they communicate? Do they have a website and social media accounts that are in line with each other? What other businesses do they work and collaborate with? These are all questions that you can answer by simply reviewing their online presence.
6. Full Service Capabilities
Top-tier caterers often offer more than just food and should provide more than just a chef. Ask what Front of House Staff like Servers and Bartenders are provided. Ask if they can help by providing Rentals (tables, linens and utensils), Set up and Cleaning services as well as Event Coordination support.
7. Press & Awards
Any reputable and seasoned catering or private chef business should have several accolades and Press available to view. This could include TV Segments, Print Articles, Magazine Showcases, Podcast interviews or Competition Awards. This not only allows you to see proof of their abilities but also the experience they have developed over the years to receive such accolades.
