I recommend RSVP Catering and will definitely call them first if I plan another event. They freed me from worry: what more could a host want?
RSVP did an excellent job at a reception that I recently hosted. When I first called caterers, I did not know the event budget. Got three bids. Budget came in lower than expected. Two caterers eventually turned down the work.
RSVP rescued the situation by offering a menu that fit the budget and even addressed the dietary needs of guests. The food was simple but tasty and very attractively presented. Guests nibbled and then kept going back for more.
RSVP arrived at the venue early, and all was set up long before our first guest came through the door. The RSVP catering supervisor inspired confidence: he looked calm, communicated well, and acted on my several requests. I was able to focus on greeting guests and making sure that everyone felt included.
By prior arrangement, RSVP cleaned up while our guests were listening to a speech: this saved us money on staffing. At our request, the catering supervisor moved leftovers and beverages to one table for guests to enjoy after the speech. We were therefore able to keep serving our guests after the RSVP van drove away.
The venue put responsibility for cleanup on us organizers. I was braced for a lot of work, but RSVP did 99% of it, even mopping the floor. We just had to take care of the few items that our guests did not eat or drink--very easy.
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Here's my earlier comment (before the event):
Working with a fairly limited budget, I sought bids from several caterers. RSVP has been responsive by email and phone, and has also worked with my venue. RSVP beat the other caterers on price, flexibility, and quality of materials. I can't comment on the quality of the food until the event happens, but the menu on the bid is highly specific and seems appealing.
Here are a few pointers that might help you find a good caterer:
-Does the venue recommend specific caterers, or perhaps require you to use specific firms? If so, this can work to your advantage: venue staff should know the caterers well, and might help you work out a plan.
-Do you have a clear budget? Make sure you know the cost of using the venue and the number of guests, so you can then figure out the price of catering.
-What do you and your guests want and expect? Are you trying to wow people, or just give them a bite to eat, or something in between? If you only pay for ice water, the caterer will not show up with champagne.
-What do your guests actually NEED? Light appetizers are fine, unless you serve them at mealtime to a starving crowd.
-Does the caterer disclose all costs? Ask your caterer to list every single charge you might face, including rental of tables, linens, glassware, taxes, setup, delivery, gratuity, etc. RSVP had fewer separate fees than other caterers who submitted bids.
-Do you mainly want to pay for food, or drink, or atmosphere--or all of the above? Your venue might have enough tables and chairs--so you can save a little, and apply that money to food and drinks.
-What quality of materials will the caterer use? RSVP offered us silver water pitchers and restaurant-quality china. Other caterers offered plastic pitchers and paperware, for a higher price (and a cheaper impression on guests). read more