You have dreamed of a beautiful reception ... Ice carvings floating above a champagne fountain, mounds of fresh fruit & berries cascading around creamy cheeses and meats, and steaming carving stations surrounded by baskets of freshly baked breads.  The room is full of all your closest friends and family enjoying the atmosphere as well as the food.

So how do you turn this vision into reality?  The simplest way to do this is to find a caterer who will listen to your needs and wants; one who will work with you to create a menu consisting of freshly prepared foods using the finest ingredients and an elegant presentation.

But before you can plan the menu, you will need to determine your catering budget.  Depending on where you have your reception, you may or may not be able to hire an independent caterer, even if the facility where you have your reception provides catering for you, it is important to establish a budget before any plans are made.

Once you have a budget you are comfortable with, then take a look at the ideas you have for the reception.  Do you see your guests mingling about the room as they enjoying the buffet, or perhaps a full service seated dinner is what you had in mind, or maybe something in between?  Be sure to take in account the room where the reception will be held.  Is the space better suited for a buffet presentation or is it more conductive to a seated service?  What about the kitchen space, will the caterer be able to use the kitchen?  Do you want to keep the atmosphere more relaxed and casual, or would you like it to be more formal?

Don't forget to consider any special needs or dietary restrictions of your guests.  Do you have any vegetarians or diabetics on your guest list?  How will you accommodate everyone?  It is always nice to mention to your guests what type of menu will be served.  This can be put on the invitation and/or RSVP cards.  (EX:  A dinner buffet will be served)   
Whichever style you choose for your reception, your caterer should be able to help you plan a menu that is not only elegant and cost effective but will reflect your personal preferences. 

Here are some questions to ask your prospective caterer:

* What type of service ware will the buffet be served with?

* Are silver and crystal presentations available, and if so what is the additional cost?

* How often will the food be replenished during the reception?

* Will we be able to take home any leftovers?

* Will you prepare additional food for any unexpected guests?

* Will the buffet table lines be white or are there other color choices?

* Will extra server increase the cost?

* How do you handle dietary restrictions?

* What sort of set-up/break-down requirements do you have?

* What sort of kitchen space do you require?

* (this is one of the most important ones) Are you licensed and insured?

Submitted by www.OriginalsCatering.com