FAQ
Answers to commonly asked questions
The Planning Process
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I don't have a venue. Do you have any recommendations?
Yes, we work with new venues all of the time, and also have some favorites to suit your needs. Check out our list of recommended venues under our "Communities" tab on the top navigation bar.
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Do you have any package pricing that you could send to me?
Every event is unique; therefore, we create custom proposals for each individual's need. Every venue has different requirements, may need additional rentals, and other considerations that may influence package pricing. Please call or email us today and we would be happy to get started on a custom estimate to fit your need and budget.
Service
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Will my contact person from Martha's Catering be at my wedding?
Yes. Your Martha's event manager will with you through all stages of your wedding planning – from your initial contact with us, through the estimate development process, during the menu tasting, and on your wedding day.
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Who will be the Martha's Catering staff at my event?
We hire experienced professionals and train all of our to servers and bartenders in standards of professional conduct and efficiency at all events. We assure you they are the best at what they do.
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Will you put linens on the tables for my event?
Yes, we're happy to put all of the linens on the tables at your event, including but not limited to the guest, dinner, cake, gift, and coffee tables.
Food
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Does the Martha’s Catering staff set up the tables?
Yes! Martha’s staff will place linens on the tables if needed, as well as all plates, silverware, and water glasses.
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Do you have gluten-free and/or vegetarian options?
Yes! All of our GF and Vegetarian-friendly options are labeled on the menu. Look for the GF or V following the item description.
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What is the average price per person for catering?
One of our sales managers will create a preliminary estimate for you based on the information you provide. We would be happy to develop a an estimated per person price based on passed experience with venues, numbers of guests, and food options.
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What food service styles do you offer?
Buffet service, Family Style service, and Plated service.
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Do you offer food menu tastings?
Yes, we offer preliminary menu tastings at either a $75 or $125 fee. Please contact one of our sales reps to schedule a tasting in our private tasting room.
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Do we have to sign a contract BEFORE the food menu tasting?
No. You are not required to sign a contract before a menu tasting; however, we do require advance payment for the cost of the food and services during the tasting. This tasting fee will then be applied toward the final contract invoice should you choose to continue with our services within 30 days of the menu tasting. If you already signed a contract with Martha's Catering, a tasting is often complimentary, but if there are special menu requests, there may be extra charges associated.
Beverage
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Although we would prefer to manage both the food AND the bar service (there are budget efficiencies in doing so), we would be happy to manage only the bar service.
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Are rentals included in your bar services?
Rentals such as glassware, linens, etc., are not included in the price of the alcohol estimate; however, they are available for rental with our services and we would be happy to quote a price for you!
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Do you offer beer, wine, and liquor?
Yes, we offer the full complement of bar services.
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Can Martha's Beverage Services provide a cash bar?
Unfortunately, we cannot provide a cash bar service. The only exception is if you are a non-profit organization and have acquired the appropriate license to do so.
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Unfortunately, we are not licensed to bartend unless we provide all of the alcohol being served. Some venues will allow you to bring in your own alcohol, but will still require the caterer to serve it.
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Yes, we have three beverage packages – Bronze, Silver, and Gold – that illustrate different average per person price points and service styles. Please keep in mind that these are just packaged examples of what we can offer. Our beverage packages are completely customizeable to fit your needs.
Rentals
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We have a variety of tabletop rentals available. Some of these include slipware, flatware, glassware, chaffing dishes, linen napkins, tablecloths, and more!
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Are rentals included in the meal prices?
All rentals are priced separately, and are not included in the meal prices.
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Am I able to rent items without contracting food service?
Unfortunately, our rentals are available exclusively to Martha's Catering clients using our food and/or beverage catering services.
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Yes! We do have linens available in many different colors and sizes.
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Yes, most of these items we have available for rental from our own inventory. If we do not have it in our own catering warehouse, we can help you locate it from one of our catering community partners to ensure that you have everything needed to execute your event!
Many questions are answered in the above list
but please don't hesitate to ask
We would prefer that you give us a call at 616.459.0116, but we will also respond to any form submitted question the next business day.