Posted by Jack Skudris on March 15, 1999 at 21:17:45 :
In Reply to: Re: Do you charge for tastings? posted by Carl Jones on March 15, 1999 at 01:25:15 :
: : I am seeking information on how other caterers address requests for tastings. I get them occassionally as part of the bidding process. Do you offer them? Do you charge for them? I would appreciate your perspective
: Well, I usually get a commitment first. If they say they are comparing caterers thru tastings, I say, "anyone can prepare for 4 people, the question in your mind should be can we prepare for 700. Our reputation speaks for that. If you would like to taste some foods to select your menu, I will prepare foods for you to taste after you have hired me (i.e. deposit, signed contract)"
: I have invited prospective brides to wedding receptions 20 mins before to see my presentation... They cant eat or stay, but it usually sells
: Carl
Right on, Carl!
The brides that are shopping caterers through tastings are going to be a pain in the butt all the way through. Catering is not about food. Food is certainly part of it, but catering is a service that is very detail oriented and a lot of things can go wrong that will impact the event over all that have nothing to do with food.
Any knuckleheaded caterer can cook a dinner for 4 in a controlled situation, but can they do it for 200 in a tent on a rainy day?
What will the staff look like? Old ladies with white shoes or school girls with big hair chewing gum? Does the staff speak english? How is the presentation? What is the FEEL of the event? How does the staff interact with the guests? Are the guests enjoying themselves? These are the real qualifiers.
We invite the prospect to an event that is open to the public or they may come before the event starts if it's private. We may serve them some hors d'Oeuvres - they are happy with that. We feel that the degree of professionalism portrayed usually ices the sale. This is the last formality, only taking place after menus and prices have been agreed upon. It tell them up front that we expect a committment (deposit check) afterward, most people bring a chect to the event!
Sound too aggressive? It works if delivered respectfully and with confidence!