First Time Taster: Things to Consider When Hiring a Caterer
People really do need to decide how important the food is to them; as you don’t get a second chance at an event. Choosing the right caterer can make all the difference in an event’s success, Chef Brian Henry has a few suggestions on how to plan one that’s worry free.
First, he says, ask potential caterers some critical questions:
How long has the caterer been in business?
Chef Brian Henry has been plying his craft for three decades. He has owned and operated three restaurants and has been operating his Private Chef Services Company since 2000
What are the caterer’s credentials?
Chef Henry is a Culinary Professor who has earned the following:
- MTCU Apprenticeship Certificate of Qualification Red Seal
- TrainCan proctor -Advanced Fst -Basic Fst
- HACCP & Food Safety Planning
- W.H.M.I.S
- St. John’s First Aid CPR
- Bill 168 Employment and Human Rights Training
- Accessible Services for Colleges- Customer Service Standards
- Richmond Culinary Centre
- Fruit and Vegetable Carving
- Thai-style Melon Carving
- Iceculture Inc. Level 1-the Basics
- Ontario Responsible Beverage Service Program Server Intervention Program
- BC Responsible Beverage Service Program Serving It Right
Is the caterer insured?
Ask the caterer to see their certificate of insurance. Chef Brian Henry is an insured business and can provide a copy of details upon request.
Is your staff bondable?
Often catered events and parties occur in private residences. For this Chef Brian Henry ~ Private Chef Services only retains people with a clear Criminal Records Check.
What styles of cuisine do you serve?
Chef Brian is experienced in a number of cuisines including East and South African, French, Caribbean, Floridian, Italian, Japanese, Spanish, Filipino, Thai, Spa, Ayurvedic, Mediterranean diet, Mexican, Canadian regional, game, Local/100 Mile Meal
What types of events do they cater?
Chef Brian Henry caters all of life’s events that are worth celebrating, birthdays, christenings, graduations, wedding, retirements, and funerals.
Corporate clients and charities enjoy our Culinary Team Building Events by taking team building sessions into the kitchen. Your employees and their stomachs will be thankful you did.
Educational, Training and Consulting services offered feed hungry minds. Whether it be contracted teaching sessions, hands on training or consulting with individuals or large groups. Chef Brian Henry Private Chef Services can assist.
How many guests or clients can the caterer accommodate?
Chef Brian Henry primarily works with groups of 1-150 people. Functions up to 1000+ people can be facilitated as well.
Does the caterer double book themselves?
Chef Brian Henry prioritizes each function and does not double book his company’s services without client approval.
What is the caterer’s range of menus?
Chef Brian Henry offers an extensive array of menus or can create one for your needs. Check out the list of menu options that Chef Brian Henry ~ Private Chef Services offers.
Is the caterer open to discussing any special dietary requirements?
This is paramount to Chef Brian Henry, as dietary allergies or restrictions can be life threatening and must be considered and accommodated in a serious and safe manner.
Does the caterer accommodate vegetarians and cultural or religious groups?
Chef Brian Henry ~ Private Chef Services has extensive knowledge and is well versed in Kosher, Halal, Ayurvedic and vegan dietary practices and cuisines.