Selecting a good caterer for your wedding is one choice that your guests will definitely notice and appreciate.

Be sure to interview at least a couple of different caterers, and schedule a tasting with each one if possible. Some caterers will charge for a tasting, but the expense is well worth it if you consider the amount of money you’ll have to spend on catering overall.

Also, ask your prospective caterers if they have worked at your reception venue before, as well as whether the food will be prepared on site (this is preferable) or offsite and then reheated for the wedding.

Some important items that should be addressed on the final contract should include:

Deposit and payment policy
Cancellation policy
A detailed description of the services to be provided for your wedding
A breakdown of the overall cost by cost per head for food and beverages
Number of onsite catering staff that will be at your wedding (count on about one staff member for every ten guests)
An estimate of the overall gratuity charge
Costs for equipment charges or other miscellaneous fees, if any
TIP: Consider buying wine from a local vineyard rather than ordering it through your caterer — many vineyards offer discounts when you buy a case or more.

TIP: You might ask your caterer in advance of the big day to save and box up a couple of extra meals that you both can take with you after the reception – it’s often the bride and groom that don’t have time to enjoy the food at their own party!