Any type of catered affair is a special event, so you want to be certain you're hiring the best person to provide the food. But catering goes far beyond the dishes; it also includes service, dependability, and a high degree of organization and coordination. To ensure you find the right caterer for your event, look for these three qualities.

What to Look for in a Caterer

1. Responsiveness

Find a caterer who takes an interest in what you're planning. Just as you should ask them about food, presentation, scheduling, and pricing, they should ask you questions too. They’ll need to know basics like meal preferences, a general headcount, dietary restrictions, and venue location. The more they want to know, the better. Also, how quickly they return calls and emails says a lot about their priorities and responsiveness.

2. Flexibility

In most cases, not all guests are going to have the same tastes or dietary limitations. A caterer should be willing to work with you and adjust meal plans or ingredients to suit the guest list. While it may not be reasonable to suggest an entirely different menu from what’s offered, they should at least consider special requests and show a willingness to compromise.

3. A Clear Contract

Contracts are at the heart of any efficient business operation, and it's no different in the catering world. The catering company should give you a clear contract that specifies exactly what foods, drinks, and services they will be providing and on what dates and times. The contract also needs to include confirmation of the location, the headcount, and the number of servings. Look for a transparent cancellation policy as well, which spells out what happens if the event is cancelled and the catering services are no longer needed.

Whether you're arranging a wedding, party, or corporate event, count on Marians Catering. With more than six decades of experience serving Oahu, the caterer provides lunch and dinner buffets, appetizers, and box lunches. Their specialties include Hawaiian, Japanese, and international food. Call (808) 621-6758 or visit their website to start planning your next event.