15 Essential Questions to Ask a Wedding Caterer + FAQ Guide

Planning your wedding is joyous—but delicious catering can make or break the experience. At Silver Spoon Caterers, Northern Virginia’s trusted wedding caterer for over 20 years, we believe in guiding couples through smart planning. Here are the top questions to ask—and answers you’ll want—before choosing your caterer.

1. Are you available on our wedding date?

First, confirm your date’s availability. A top caterer will be transparent about availability and file your date promptly.

2. How many weddings do you cater each year?

Experienced caterers balance volume with quality. Knowing how many events they serve annually helps ensure your day receives meticulous attention.

3. Will you help with permits and venue coordination?

Weddings at parks, farms, or historic venues often require permits. Silver Spoon coordinates directly with venues and authorities—managing paperwork so you don’t have to.

4. Do you provide an on-site banquet manager?

Your caterer should offer a dedicated coordinator who:

• Manages setup and timing

• Ensures service flows smoothly

• Acts as your single point of contact during the event

5. Can you assist with other vendors or event design?

Beyond food, Silver Spoon offers vendor referrals and cohesive event styling—from table settings to service presentation. We help bring your vision to life.

🍽️ Food, Presentation & Dietary Considerations

6. What menu options match our budget and guest count?

Whether intimate or extravagant, your menu should align with your budget, guest needs, and stylistic preferences. We’ll suggest creative ideas—buffet, plated, stations, or hybrid—and transparent pricing.

7. Do you offer packages or à la carte options?

From starter packages to fully curated menus, we customize options with upgrades for linens, dessert bars, and specialty stations.

8. Can you accommodate special dietary needs?

Yes—our offerings include gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, nut-free, and culturally specific dishes. We guarantee safe prep protocols and allergen transparency.

9. Are themed menus available—and do décor and props come with them?

Love Mediterranean tapas or Southern barbecue? We offer themed menus complete with décor and service styling to enhance your chosen concept.

10. Passed appetizers vs. stationary displays—what’s the difference?

Passed hors d’oeuvres add flair but require more servers. Stationary displays are cost-effective and self-serve. We help you choose based on your style and budget.

🛎️ Service Logistics & Event Execution

11. What is your server-to-guest ratio?

Our standard is 1 server per 10–12 guests, ensuring prompt attention, drink refills, and smooth service flow.

12. How long do you need for setup and breakdown?

Setup for buffet or stations typically takes 2–3 hours. We coordinate with venues to respect their timelines, and leave the space clean and restored.

13. What are your cancellation and refund policies?

Cancellation terms are clearly outlined upfront, protecting both parties. We’re transparent about deadlines and refundable deposits.

14. Can you provide references?

Absolutely. We’d be thrilled to share feedback from recent weddings in Fairfax, Great Falls, and McLean, showcasing real experiences from couples and guests.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How soon should we book our caterer?

Top caterers often fill up 12–18 months in advance, especially May–October. For smaller or off-season weddings, 6–9 months may suffice—but the earlier, the better.

Q: Do you handle rentals like linens and china?

Yes. We can manage delivery and pickup of tables, chairs, linens, flatware, and décor items—so every detail is seamless.

Q: What is your alcohol policy?

We’re fully licensed to provide beer, wine, and liquor. We offer all-inclusive packages, cash bar systems, and event bartenders. Guest safety and compliance are our top priorities.

Q: How do you ensure food safety?

We comply with local health department standards and maintain:

• Temperature-controlled transport

• Allergen labelling and prevention protocols

• Trained staff in safe food handling

Q: What happens if there’s a last-minute change?

We build flexibility into contracts. We accommodate final counts or dietary adjustments up until ~2 weeks before the event. Nearer the date, staffing or ordering constraints may apply, but we’re adept at handling emergencies.

Why Couples Choose Silver Spoon Caterers ❤️

1. Local Expertise: Rooted in Fairfax, we know every venue’s rules and logistics.

2. Culinary Excellence: Menus grounded in fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

3. Seamless Planning: Dedicated coordinators handle every detail so you don’t have to.

4. Adaptable Service: We tailor to your style—casual BBQ to elegant soirée.

5. Reputation of Trust: As a woman- and minority-owned company, our service, reliability, and food quality earn top Bride’s Choice & Yelp reviews.

Next Steps—Let’s Book Your Wedding

Ready for the perfect menu and flawless execution?

📞 Call us: 703‑968‑2950
📥 Request a consultation
💬 We’ll guide you step-by-step—from design to service—ensuring your wedding is everything you hoped for and more.