Except for the venue, a party caterer provides all of the necessary elements for a successful social gathering. He prepares and serves food and beverages, creates an atmosphere according to the host’s preferences, and cleans up the venue at the end of the festivities. The caterer can work in the client’s home or at a designated location outside of the house.
A caterer is typically self-employed, with only one or two people assisting him in the preparation and serving of food and beverages. These helpers could be permanent employees or contract workers. Some caterers focus their efforts on food preparation while delegating service to others.
To be a successful party caterer, you must have excellent culinary skills. A flair for presentation, in addition to excellent cooking and baking skills, is a common requirement for success in this field. Because it is widely held that food must first be appreciated the eye before it can be enjoyed the palate, artistic staging is frequently required.
A party caterer’s ability to plan menus is usually required. One of his first responsibilities, which is frequently required before a client signs a contract for his services, is to present a menu that is tailored to the customer’s specific requirements. Budget considerations, whether the party will feature a sit-down meal or a buffet, and whether the food selection should be hot, cold, or a combination of the two are all guidelines he must follow. Menu selections are heavily influenced food allergies and preferences. Prior to the event, a tasting menu of food samples may be provided to give the client a clear idea of what the chosen food will taste like.
Other considerations include whether alcoholic beverages will be available and, if so, whether the selection will be limited to beer and wine or include a full bar of alcoholic beverages and mixers. If the event is centered around a special occasion, such as an anniversary or birthday, a special cake may be appropriate. Other topics that the caterer and his client usually discuss are color schemes and themes.
A party caterer is typically required to have excellent communication skills in addition to having clearly defined talents in food preparation. To promote his business, he needs to understand his clients’ preferences, be able to negotiate contracts, and have good public relations skills. To plan and execute his services, he must be well-organized.
A caterer does not require any formal education or training. A caterer can take special classes in specific types of food preparation to broaden his skills and offerings. Working as a waiter or in a commercial kitchen environment gives an aspiring party caterer valuable experience.