 Utah Celebrations Catering Frequently Asked Questions |
Utah Celebrations Catering
Phone: 801-616-7047
Q: Is there a minimum order?
We do have a minimum order of $600.00 or 20 people for full service events. Consider drop off service for smaller events. If you need full service for a group smaller than 20 or $600.00, please consult our event coordinators, in certain circumstances we can provide full service to smaller groups for an additional fee.
Q: What do I need to do to reserve catering for my event?
To reserve your date you will need to provide an estimated non-refundable down payment of 50% and a signed contract. We cannot reserve a date until we have received payment. We accept cash, checks, and cards.
Q: How far out should I reserve? Do I need a final menu and head count to book?
It is always wise to reserve as soon as possible. We are flexible if you need to change your date to another available day, and you wont run the risk of getting turned down. Although in most cases we are able to cater an event with little notice and cater multiple events in one day, you will want to secure your day as soon as you are able. Your final menu and head count is not required until 2 weeks prior, so you can still book without knowing for certain your guest count or what you want to serve.
Q: Will I run out of food?
We pride ourselves in providing plenty of food for every event. Estimate as close to an accurate guest count as possible, and leave the rest to us. We always send home leftovers with you, so feel free to order a little extra if you are concerned. Our chefs always make extra food, however it is important to notify your event coordinator if you are concerned a certain item might be popular and go fast at your event.
Q: Do items like crepes and hors d’ oeuvres only include one per person?
When adding up your guest count, don’t worry about your guests taking more than one crepe or hors d’ oeuvre. Our chefs are professionally trained and experienced to provide enough of each item so that your guests can have extra and you won’t run out.
Q: How do we estimate how many people will come?
There are many equations out there floating around on how to estimate your guest count. Although some of these equations may come close, it is always smart to go through your guest list and estimate who will actually come, and how many people they will bring. Take into consideration weddings that have happened in the same neighborhood, and ask them how many people they had attend. The average wedding has 200-300 people attend. Factor in if your family and friends are local, the day of the week, and the accessibility of the wedding location to your guests. All of these things will affect your number.
Q: What happens if my guest count is too high or too low?
Many caterers refuse to send you home with the leftover food. They may tell you it is illegal, however that is inaccurate. If you have less people come than what you paid for, we will send you home with the leftovers. In most cases even when you are over your number you will not run out of food, however it is always better to estimate higher than lower and take some food home with you.
Q: Do you have a service charge?
Unlike the majority of caterers we have no service charge. All of our pricing includes everything you need including buffet tables, full wait staff in formal attire, beverage of choice, ice water, buffet set up, buffet take down, bussing, heated and cooled transportation, clear plasticware, napkins, and all serving equipment. Most caterers add 20% to your total for a service charge, amongst other hidden fees, which add up to cost you hundreds of dollars.
Q: When is my second payment due?
Your final head count, and menu selection, and payment are due two weeks prior to your event.
Q: Is there a fee if the event goes longer than two hours?
Unlike many caterers we do not charge for exceeding two hours. We are there to help you pull off a successful event and will not pack up until you have given us permission.
Q: Do you have tastings?
We think it is important to try the food before you spend hundreds if not thousands of dollars on catering. We hold tastings every month so that you can see our beautiful displays, and try a wide assortment of food. Due to the popularity of our tastings we now charge $10.00/person to cover our costs to produce this event. Our tastings always include our famous crepe bar, frozen drinks, Italian sodas, signature chicken marsala, amongst many other things. Come hungry! Many vendors will be there to help with ideas, so come ready to plan. You must RSVP for our tastings. Please contact one of our event coordinators to reserve your seat.
Q: Do you offer personal tastings?
We do offer personal tastings for a fee of $50.00. This fee covers the cost of our chefs to specially create a dish just for you. Most people enjoy paying less and attending our once a month tastings, because there is more food and it is less expensive. Even if the food you want to order is not there you will be able to get an idea of the quality and presentation that we provide.
Q: What quality of food and service should I expect?
Our food is made with the freshest ingredients available. We implement many classical techniques and recipes, and maintain some of the highest quality food available. Our freezer has nothing much more than our custom made gelatos, and sorbettos rather than frozen meat and vegetables. For two straight years we have been awarded brides choice based on our quality of service. We strive to keep the buffet well stocked and clean, tables well bussed, and keep you and your guests happy. Our event coordinators will help you plan your event precisely. With three event coordinators we are easy to work with and guarantee to respond to any needs or inquiries within 24 hours.
Q: How much time do I need to give the caterer to set up?
Please allow approximately 2 hours for us to set up. This time is not guaranteed; rather it is an average arrival time. Please plan accordingly with your venue so that we have access to the facility approximately two hours prior to your serving time.
Q: Will I have big lines?
Generally lines are avoidable. When hosting an open house or reception for more than 200 people make sure to provide enough space for a double-sided buffet line. Also for receptions with over 300 people consider starting your event a half an hour earlier in order to spread out the flow of people. When hosting a luncheon or dinner where everyone is eating all at once make sure to provide enough space to have a double-sided buffet. When serving 200 or more all at once factor in enough room to provide two double-sided buffets in different parts of the facility. When serving a large group all at once anticipate some wait time, it is impossible to serve a large group immediately.
Q: Can I cancel? Is my deposit non refundable?
You may cancel at anytime, however your deposit is non refundable. Please understand the caterer is in many cases turning down other customers to provide service to you on your day. Furthermore in many instances equipment and other resources may be purchased well ahead of time in planning. We understand in rare circumstances things may occur, please let us know well in advance as we may offer you a credit for a future event, please do not expect a cash refund though.
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