A simple guide to the first details we need to help you plan your event with confidence.

Right here is the perfect place.

Starting the catering process can feel a little overwhelming, especially if you are still early in planning. The good news is that you do not need to have every detail figured out before reaching out. A few key pieces of information will help us guide you, check availability, and prepare the most helpful quote possible.

To get started, it helps to know:

Your event date, your venue, your estimated guest count, and the general catering style you are considering.

Do you have a date yet?

If you are still considering multiple dates, you can absolutely explore catering options. We are always happy to check hypothetical dates and share the best information available. The only thing to keep in mind is that availability cannot be confirmed, and an event cannot be officially booked, without a finalized date.

Have you chosen a venue yet?

If you are still venue shopping, we can provide general information and help you think through catering options. Once your venue is selected, we can provide more precise details about travel fees, setup needs, timing, staffing, and logistics.

One very important question to ask your venue is whether they allow outside catering. Some venues have their own catering service, while others require you to choose from a closed or exclusive vendor list. If we are not currently on your chosen venue’s list, let us know. We are happy to reach out and start a conversation with them about being added.

We are thrilled to partner with more than 25 venues throughout the state. Visit our partner venue page to explore options and learn more. [Add link to venue page] [REVISIT WHEN LIVE]

How many guests are you anticipating?

Early in the planning process, your guest count is usually an estimate – and that is completely okay. We can prepare a quote based on your rough number and adjust as the event details become clearer.

If you decide to book your event with us, you will be required to confirm at least 85% of your estimated count. For that reason, we suggest booking with a fairly conservative number. There is no issue if your final guest count comes in higher than your original estimate. However, if your guest count comes in much lower than expected, you may end up paying for more guests than necessary. Your final guest count will be confirmed with us three weeks before your event. For more details, see our blog post on guest counts and pricing. [Add link to guest count blog] [REVISIT WHEN LIVE]

Have you chosen a catering style?

Every event is unique, but most catered events fall into one of a few common styles: buffet presentation, plated dinner, family-style service, custom stations, or cocktail-style service. Your event may also include bar and beverage service, dessert, ice cream, espresso, hors d’oeuvres, or a late-night snack.

You do not have to know your final catering style yet. We are happy to talk through different options and provide multiple quotes so you can compare what works best for your event. Most menu and service decisions are made about three to four months before the event, and you will have the opportunity to taste food before planning your menu. Your event manager will walk you through each step. [Add link to menu page] [REVISIT WHEN LIVE]

Ready for a detailed quote?

With your date, venue, estimated guest count, and general catering style, we can provide a detailed quote. Amanda will be happy to prepare one for you. Fill out our event intake form to get started. [Add link to web intake form]

Want to chat first?

Schedule a catering consultation with Jeff: https://calendly.com/consult-fs/catering-consultation

Planning an event is much easier when you know what information matters most. Start with what you know, and we will help you fill in the rest.