Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does it cost to get my wedding reception catered?
A: There are a lot of variables on pricing: desired menu, level of setup, service options, travel distance etc. but typically most of the weddings Pratt’s caters fall in the range of $17 to $25 per person including tax and tip. However, a very basic wedding might be only $14 or $15 and an elaborate one might run $30 or more.
Q: Why do wedding receptions cost more to get catered than other events?
A: Catering a wedding reception requires more planning, work, skill and energy than just about any other event. The service level for a wedding reception is completely different than any other event and paying attention to the details usually ensures the success of the reception.
Q: How much do I need to deposit to lock in Pratt’s to cater my reception and when are payments due?
A: A deposit of one third of the estimated total amount of the reception is required to secure your date with Pratt’s. No other payments are required until 30 days prior to the event when the second third is needed. The final payment is due one week ahead and is based on the final number of guests that you guarantee. You may however make payments prior to due dates if you so desire.
Q: How far ahead do I need to book my wedding reception?
A: While some weddings are booked only a few months ahead because of various circumstances, usually 9 to 15 months is more typical and is the best rule of thumb in order to get all the vendors you prefer to work with.
Q: Which is better and more filling a meal type buffet or and hors d’oeuvre buffet?
A: Your guests will have plenty of food regardless of which direction you go with the menu if Pratt’s is doing your catering. A common misconception is that your guests will not get enough to eat unless they are having a meal. This is not true as Pratt’s brings more than enough food regardless of the type of menu.
Q: How many servers will be at my wedding reception?
A: Typically 2 or 3 servers are at each wedding Pratt’s caters. A very large wedding may require more.
Q: How far will Pratt’s travel to cater?
A: Most weddings are done within a 25 mile radius or so however Pratt’s has catered weddings up to 80 miles away and will go farther given the opportunity.
Q: What if I’m not sure what kind of menu I want or how many guests I will have? Should I wait until I have that information before booking my wedding reception?
A: Once you have your date set for your reception it is best to get your date locked in with your caterer before they get booked up. Pratt’s typically turns down several weddings each year because the most popular dates get booked up quickly. Once you book your date you can make as many changes as you would like prior to the event.
