Blog Post

Fall In Love With Your Caterer

Gigi Papizan • Feb 10, 2023

It takes more than booze to keep your guests happy—don’t let the food be an afterthought.

Hiring a legit caterer can be one of the most challenging tasks when planning a wedding. But don’t

stress! The Bacon and Fig Events Team in Baton Rouge has put together a few tips on

choosing your caterer.

1. Research Your Caterer

When choosing your caterer, you want to go with a reputable business that is accessible and accountable. Reviews and referrals are great, but your catering company should be easy to find, have a functioning website, active social media with easy accessibility and contact information. Your catering company should be fully insured and can produce their Certificate of Insurance (COI) up to $1-$2 million. They should have a plethora of culinary and hospitality experience. They understand how to build a timeline, map, and agenda. They are problem solvers and understand not every meal, event, reception or wedding is the same. A professional catering company is transparent, and they can pivot while accommodating your needs. Customer service is very important along with amazing food, desserts, and bar services. Each caterer and client should have a healthy relationship understanding the steps before, during and after the event.

 

2. First impressions Really Do Matter

Kindness and professionalism go a long way. If the online images and articles from their social media and the website don’t match, then you might have a problem. Bacon and Fig Events takes time to develop relationships with their clients’ specific needs, wants, and understands the information shared is accurate. It is important that when you hang up the phone, read an email, shoot a text or finish a meeting that everyone is on the same page. Everyone should understand the next steps and the current situation. These first impressions should help guide your decisions. 

 

3. Create A Budget

We live in a world that is changing by the minute. Venue rental, food, drinks, vendors and hospitality all come with an increasing price. It is imperative to know your financial limits and see if the caterer is the right fit. Building a budget is different for everyone. Some are getting help from other family members, some are paying on their own. A legit caterer understands this. When you meet with your caterer you might not know what you can afford. After meeting with a caterer, you should have a better assessment. Building a budget might be a challenge, just know a good caterer wants to help. They should not scare you with hidden costs or fees. If you really want peace of mind, ask for a sample quote. This will help during the process of finding the best caterer for your event. 

 

4. Dietary Needs and Restrictions

Very important, please share any dietary needs or restrictions as soon as possible. Once again, things are changing fast but a good caterer can accommodate all types of cuisine while addressing food allergies. Whether it's paleo, gluten free, vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, etc. Please share the types of food you like or dislike. Professional caterers, cooks, chefs, bartenders, they like to make people happy with their food and drink. Instant gratification should be available for all palates. 

 

5. Don’t Settle Until You Are Happy 😊

Your caterer should just get you! You waited for years to find your spouse, so don’t settle on the first caterer unless they check all of the boxes. Accessible, accountable, transparent, professionalism, they do what they say, they say what they do. Forget a sales pitch, go with your gut, try their food, meet their team, check out their facilities and work to celebrate some of your most important moments together. A professional caterer will treat you, your vendors, family, and friends with respect and understanding. 

By Angel Gaona 29 Apr, 2024
Creating a balanced menu for any wedding involves considering various factors such as dietary preferences, cultural traditions, seasonal availability, and overall guest satisfaction. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you create a balanced wedding menu: Understand Dietary Restrictions: The first step to creating a balanced menu that all your guests can enjoy is by considering any dietary restrictions or allergies. Common dietary restrictions include vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free preferences. Bacon and Fig Events has ample options available to ensure all your guests' dietary needs can be accommodated. Consider Cultural Influences: Bacon and Fig Events is located in the heart of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, we are the ultimate pros of local Louisiana flavors including Creole and Cajun influences. We have also worked with a wide variety of cultural backgrounds adding a personal touch to every dish that celebrates any heritage. Offer a Variety of Options: Bacon and Fig Events has a diverse selection of dishes to cater to different tastes and preferences. We include options for appetizers, main courses, sides, and desserts. As well as offering a mix of proteins, such as beef, chicken, fish, and vegetarian or vegan options like tofu or lentils. Balance Flavors and Textures: Aiming for a balance of flavors and textures throughout the menu can help tie together any meal. Bacon and Fig Events is sure to include a mix of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors in each dish. We can incorporate a variety of flavors and textures to create a satisfying experience with every bite. Include Seasonal Ingredients: Incorporating seasonal elements adds a touch of uniqueness to the menu. Bacon and Fig Events continuously utilize seasonal ingredients to ensure freshness and flavor with every changing season. Plan for Appetizers and Hors d ‘Oeuvres: Start your meal with a selection of appetizers and hors d'oeuvres. Bacon and Fig Events can offer a mix of hot and cold options, including small bites and finger foods that are easy to eat while socializing over cocktails. Offer a Plated Dinner or Buffet: Whether you decide on an intimate plated dinner or wide selections with a buffet style, we are sure to accommodate your preference. Plated dinners can offer a more formal dining experience, while buffets provide guests with more flexibility and choice. Bacon and Fig Events have executed both styles perfectly, while incorporating the wedding's style and budget. Provide Beverage Options: Paired with every good meal are beverages! Bacon and Fig Events partners with BRQ Seafood and Barbeque. Offering a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, including wine, beer, signature cocktails, and non-alcoholic mocktails. End with Desserts: The perfect end to every dining experience is with a sweet note. With a wide selection of desserts, Bacon and Fig Events works hand and hand with the Baking and Pastry Team at the Louisiana Culinary Institute. Offering a mix of indulgent treats like cakes, pastries, and chocolates. As well as lighter options like fruit sorbets or yogurt parfaits. Sample and Taste: Taste, presentation, and quality are important to us, that is why we offer tasting to put your mind at ease. Before finalizing your menu, Bacon and Fig Events will make necessary adjustments based on your feedback to ensure that all your dining expectations are met.
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Congratulations, you're engaged and now you need a legit caterer. Contact us today, we'll meet and customize the perfect package including our hospitality team, liquor /beverage packages, and discuss all of the services we provide vs. what you need. If you like what you hear, hire us for your wedding reception, you will receive 10% off! This offer is only available for the month of January 2020. *All wedding tastings will be held at BRQ Seafood and Barbeque. *Bacon and Fig Events works in conjunction with Louisiana Culinary Institute, BRQ, Owners/Executive Chef Justin Ferguson and Charlie Ruffolo
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