As foodie couples, you’re in luck! I recently had the pleasure of attending the book launch of Style Me Vintage: Weddings by Annabel of Love My Dress, where I was treated to an evening of culinary delights courtesy of Kalm Kitchen. This award-winning catering company is renowned for its exceptional cuisine, sourced from local ingredients and delivered with finesse at weddings and events in London and the South-East. The highlight of the evening was getting to sample their creative, delicious, and beautifully presented dishes firsthand. And I’m thrilled to share that they’re willing to pass on their expertise by sharing their top tips for choosing the perfect wedding caterer. To make it even more mouthwatering, I’ve included stunning photos showcasing Kalm Kitchen’s culinary prowess – from innovative canapés to delectable desserts. Get ready for a visual feast!
How To Choose Your Wedding Caterer
When choosing a catering company for your special event, you’re seeking a provider that excels in three primary areas: culinary expertise, exceptional service, and a willingness to meticulously understand and execute your vision. To ensure a seamless collaboration, it’s crucial to have open and thorough discussions with your caterer during the initial meeting. This is an opportunity to gauge their professionalism, attention to detail, and ability to adapt to your unique needs.
Availability
Before booking a caterer for your special day, it’s essential to confirm their availability on the desired date and gain clarity on the booking and payment process. This will prevent any last-minute surprises or unexpected expenses. To avoid such unpleasantness, it’s crucial to understand when the booking becomes secure and when payments are required. A well-planned approach can help you navigate this process smoothly.
We recommend starting your search for a caterer at least nine months prior to your wedding date. This timeframe allows ample time to research and meet with potential providers, ensuring you find the perfect fit. Additionally, many venues maintain lists of preferred suppliers, including caterers. Once you’ve secured your venue and date, it’s an excellent opportunity to begin contacting catering companies.
Budget
When seeking catering services, it’s crucial to gain a clear understanding of costs and what they entail. Be open with your caterer about your budget constraints, and ideally, they should be able to tailor a package that suits your needs. It’s also essential to clarify what is included in the quote and what isn’t, as this can vary significantly from one provider to another. A key aspect to consider is whether the quoted price includes VAT – it’s crucial not to overlook this, as it can result in an unexpected expense. Furthermore, be sure to confirm whether tableware and linen hire are included or if they’re additional expenses. By addressing these details upfront, you’ll avoid any last-minute budget surprises and ensure a stress-free planning experience.
Quality of Food
When choosing a catering service, it’s crucial to strike the perfect balance between visual appeal and culinary excellence. One way to gauge their capabilities is by asking to see a portfolio of their previous work, complete with photographs of their dishes. Moreover, ensuring that your caterer operates from professional, commercial kitchens and has a team of skilled staff on hand to attend to your guests on the day is vital. During your initial meeting, don’t hesitate to inquire about the quality and sustainability of the produce they source. By focusing on seasonal menus, you can significantly impact the overall quality and taste of your meal.
Tasting Session
When considering a catering service, take advantage of their tasting experience offer. However, be aware that prominent caterers may have restricted availability during the summer months due to high demand. A tasting allows you to comprehensively assess the quality, flair, and presentation of their dishes, giving you the freedom to incorporate your own ideas into their existing menus.
Great Expectations
When it comes to selecting a caterer, it’s essential to find one that not only understands your event’s overall vision but also takes the time to listen to your unique ideas and preferences. A skilled caterer should be able to draw upon their extensive experience to not only meet but exceed your expectations for the day, bringing your conceptualized event to life in a way that’s both memorable and enjoyable.
Experience
When seeking a reliable caterer for your special day, it’s essential to select a team that boasts a strong track record of delivering exceptional wedding and event experiences. One effective way to gauge a caterer’s capabilities is by reviewing their recent work through social media platforms and company websites. This will give you a comprehensive understanding of their presence in the market, the types of events they’ve catered, and the quality of service they provide.
Setting the Scene
When it comes to planning a wedding, the catering team plays a crucial role in bringing the couple’s vision to life. As one of the last suppliers to set up before the celebration begins, the caterer has the unique opportunity to ensure that every detail, from the flowers to the tableware, is perfectly aligned. At Kalm Kitchen, we take pride in our attention to detail and dedication to delivering a seamless experience. By working closely with couples to understand their vision, we’re able to bring their décor dreams to reality, creating a truly unforgettable atmosphere on the big day.