Catering in Free State

Professionals do — collect guest dietary needs (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, allergies) in advance and give them to the caterer, who should label dishes and manage cross-contamination. Allergen management is a legal duty for food businesses in many countries; ask how they handle it.

Many caterers add a service charge (often 15-22%) covering staff; confirm whether it's included or extra, and whether it goes to the team. Where a service charge is applied, an additional tip is usually optional. Clarify this before signing to avoid a surprise on the final invoice.

Look for: per-head food price, service style, staff (chefs, servers) and hours, equipment hire (crockery, glassware, linen, chafing dishes), setup and clear-down, travel, and any bar or drinks package. A per-head number alone hides staffing and hire costs that can rival the food.

For weddings and large events, 6-12 months ahead secures popular caterers and dates; smaller parties, a few weeks to a couple of months. Book earlier for peak season (summer weddings, December). A tasting before you commit is standard for bigger events.

Staffing and equipment hire can add 20-40% on top of the food, especially for plated service and events without a venue kitchen. Servers, chefs, bar staff, crockery, glassware and linen all cost. Get these itemised so you can compare like with like.

Catering runs roughly R150-600 per head depending on buffet vs plated, before staff and hire. A 100-guest wedding with staff commonly totals R35,000-130,000 depending on formality and menu.