Cheryl Fleming, our Director of Wedding and Social Market Sales, is back to answer some of the common questions that arise when planning a wedding.

Tables, chairs, place settings and passed hors d’oeuvres, oh my! This week we discuss rentals and waitstaff, two details that can shape the experience at your wedding.

wedding table at Villa Montalvo

Q: Will the caterer provide tables, chairs, plates, napkins, silverware, and glassware? What about candles? Are they able to set the tables with menus, place cards, and favors?

A: If your venue does not have these items, and your caterer cannot provide them, you will need to rent them on your own. Most caterers do not have a full warehouse of decor to pull from, but some will handle the rental order for you, adding it to your final catering bill. If possible, let your caterer handle the rental order – they are often able to secure an industry discount, and if the caterer is handling rentals, it’s likely they can manage getting everything set up too.

Q: Does the caterer provide waitstaff? Are the staffing charges included in the catering quote?

A:
If you are hiring a full-service catering company, they will provide their own staff, which is better for both you and the company. If the staff is associated with the caterer, they will be more comfortable with the intricacies of the event and menu, ensuring seamless service. The caterer should outline staffing charges in its proposal.