FAQ

Menus and Catering

What's included in catering services?

We coordinate menus, beverages, rentals, staff, and will also work with your other (outside) vendors to ensure a seamless event.  For drop off events, we make sure you have all the pieces in place so there are no surprises.

How do I get an estimate of catering costs?

After an initial consultation, we create an individualized proposal that outlines each service, with individual cost calculations of each area of service, as well as an overall cost analysis.  In this way, all of your costs our itemized clearly and concisely, with no hidden fees. Upon your review, we will work with you to refine the proposal, adjusting elements as necessary to meet your vision and budget.

How do you create the look and décor for my buffet?

We'll work with your theme, color scheme and occasion. We provide a customized table display using pieces from your decortions to reflect that theme, which includes flowing cloths and textiles, flowers, candles, and appropriate decorative items. We maintain a wide variety of serving pieces, including beautiful mirrors and platters, unique pieces of recycled glass, natural stone, baskets, and colored ceramic dishes.  All required display platters, warmers, and serving utensils needed for your specific menu are always included the menu cost.

Do I need to use your menus, or can I create my own?

We do not have preset menus. We have easy to fill in formats.  Everyone’s taste and event is personalized. We love working with people to craft personalized menus... whether it's an elegant "impress the guests" event, or simply the inclusion of a family favorite recipe on the buffet table.  Our chefs will lend their culinary expertise to your planning process to ensure your menu is balanced, and adequately addresses the range of guests you have invited. 

What sort of beverage service do you provide?

Non-Alcoholic:  We offer a variety of choices.  Sweet Iced Tea, Unsweetened Iced Tea, Lemonade, Punch or Coffee Service

Alcoholic:  For an additional fee, we offer bartending services.  You purchase your alcohol and we pour.  Contact us for a list of supplies you will need.

Can you also provide our wedding cake?

Our Chefs make exquisite individual desserts.  For custom pastries and wedding cakes, we are happy to provide a pastry chef recommendation for you.

What if the bride and groom get too busy to eat during the reception?

One of the unique signatures of A Chef’s Touch Catering Service is a gift we present at the end of the evening to brides and grooms.  This special “Wedding Box” features items from your menu along a celebratory beverage to enjoy on your first special night
together.

What about children?

Children 3 - 10 are 50 % of the regular menu cost. We can also provide you with a special menu.

Rentals

What's the best way to determine what I need to rent?

We assist you with rentals based on what is available at your venue, your menu, and the budget for your event.

Fees and Contract

What does the per-person menu price include?

The per-person price includes the menu item described (with its serving pieces) the beverage choices and the service staff.  It does not include, rental items, taxes, or gratuity.  All of those items will be itemized clearly in our proposal.

Do you charge for corkage?

We do not charge a corkage fee. You are welcome to bring your own Champagne or Non-Alcoholic Champagne for toasting and there will be no additional charges.

Do you charge for cake cutting?

No, we do not charge for cake cutting.

Is there a minimum cost for your services?

Yes, we require a $500 minimum in menu costs.  For groups under 30 guests, there is also a 10% surcharge on your menu costs.

Does your contract price include gratuity?

Your cost analysis will reflect an 18% service charge.  This cost includes gratuity for your staff.  No cash is needed the day of your event.

Does your contract price include tax?

Florida State requires us to charge a 6% tax on your order; this will be in your cost analysis.

Do you provide a drop off service?

Yes, We provide disposable wire chafers, disposable service ware.  Drop off charges will be added.

Do you offer any discounts?

We offer guest size discounts on our menus as follows:

• 10% for events with 250 and over guests
• Non-profit organizations receive an additional 5% discount off our menu.

What does your contract for services require?

We require a signed contract to hold your event date.  A 50% deposit on the estimated event total is due at the time of signing. Your balance is to be paid the day of your event.

Do you have a list of references I can contact?

Yes. Give us a call, or send us an email, and we will provide you with our most recent references.