Decide what the budget needs to cover
Begin with the overall amount available for catering and explain what sits inside it. Food alone is a different brief from food, delivery, setup, equipment and staff. If other hospitality comes from the venue or another supplier, identify it so it is neither omitted nor counted twice.
This site does not publish a verified standard buffet tariff. The menu, people eating, date, venue and service shape the proposal. Share your practical budget alongside those details so the discussion can focus on a workable arrangement.
| Budget line | Question to ask |
|---|---|
| Food | Which dishes and food allowance are being quoted? |
| Delivery and access | What delivery arrangement and any travel charge apply? |
| Setup and staff | Which tasks and service period are included? |
| Equipment | What is supplied, hired separately or provided by the venue? |
| Drinks and sweet food | Which items, if any, are within the proposal? |
| Returns and finish | What collection or separately agreed clearing cost applies? |
Choose priorities before trimming the brief
Decide which parts matter most: the menu direction, a particular eating time, help during the meal or a complete equipment arrangement. Then ask how the proposal can be shaped around those priorities. Removing a service line may transfer work to the organiser, so check who will do that work before accepting a lower total.
Avoid comparing headline per-person figures unless the same food allowance and service are behind them. A lower food-only figure can sit alongside separate delivery, equipment or staffing costs. The quote comparison guide provides a practical review structure.
Keep the accepted total current
- Ask for the total, inclusions and any applicable tax treatment to be clear.
- Check minimums, payment and cancellation terms in your own proposal.
- Request an updated written total when guest numbers or service changes.
- Retain the accepted version with the event plan.
No deposit percentage, minimum spend, discount or fixed delivery price is promised here. Those details must be confirmed for the booking.