Posted by Karen Upright on September 11, 1997 at 23:07:38 :
In Reply to: Don't know what to charge? posted by Todd Ohle on September 11, 1997 at 13:06:40 :
: I have recently been asked by a large group of people in Texas to come out and cook for a scholarship benefit party.
: They are holding an Old English High Tea party for approximately 60-75 people and would like me to fly from Florida to cook for the event.
I occasionally do benefit work for expenses/cost only. It depends on the group and if I think it's good enough publicity to make it worth my while (or if I care about the group).
: I am a chef and a CIA grad., so cooking is not a problem, but I have no idea what to charge them for the event. They stated to me
: that they don't want an entree, they only want "finger foods, scones, jams, etc.". They plan on paying for all the ingredients and
: help needed to serve the food.
Be aware of the need for some small quantity ingredients they may not plan on buying for the event, for example, spices, baking powder, etc. Are they planning to purchase those as well, is someone providing it from their own kitchen, or are you supplying these items.
I don't like to cook away from my own kitchen, because that special ingredient I want to adjust seasoning isn't there...
: I just need to know a ballpark figure on what I can charge for my services. If anyone can HELP me,
: please e-mail me and let me know.
I charge $25.00 or more per hour for "consulting services" for events where I am not providing the food. Keep in mind that Jacksonville has a very low cost of living. I imagine the rate would be much higher in other cities.
BTW, I always thought High Tea was more like dinner, with meats and cheeses and such, and Afternoon Tea is that cookies, scones, finger sandwiches thing. Anyone care to clarify this? I serve the sandwich-scone-cookie type tea at Foster's, and we always call it Afternoon Tea. Am I making a mistake? Any Brits out there?
Karen