“When planners and caterers collaborate, it creates a seamless
sense given any other changes to the event, and help communicate with the caterer what they need to do to win the event, so expectations are aligned.” Any good relationship relies on trust, and with tastings, it’s best for planners to step back and trust the caterer with the process, positioning themselves as moderators between the caterer and client. This doesn’t necessarily mean that the planner should be passive. In fact, Jeffrey Selden (Marcia Selden Catering) said in the same CS+TSE 2024 session Sip, Savor, and Slice: Crafting Unforgettable Tastings for Wedding Catering , “A lot of planners, I don’t know how you feel about this, but I feel like there’s a right client for the right vendor... the best planners are the ones that can convince their clients of, ‘Hey you really need to be with this vendor, caterer, cake baker, if you decide that they’re the right match for you.’” Having no opinion as a planner and just shopping around with the client is not helpful. “Please, please be a planner with an opinion.” Us vs. the problem, not me vs. you From an objective perspective, what these frustrations boil down to is a lack of communication between planners and caterers regarding tastings. Most planners and caterers do agree that it is more than beneficial to work together. The issue isn’t a lack of desire to collaborate as much as it is a problem of miscommunication. “Transparency is probably the most important for good communication between the caterer and the planner,” says Chang. “Being honest about the goals, expectations, and challenges/concerns and discussing those between parties leads to better solutions and means no one is caught off guard.” Costantini agrees. “Planners can foster success by facilitating clear communication between clients and caterers, managing expectations, and allowing the chef to present their expertise while ensuring the client’s vision is honored.” She adds, “Collaboration can include pre-tasting meetings to discuss goals and providing consolidated feedback afterward to avoid conflicting messages.” When it comes to tastings, there is no such thing as overcommunication. “Both caterer and planner should take and compare detailed menu notes and photos,” says Haas. “Proper organization and communication will set each party up for success. Good communication with the client could include any special menu requests in advance, an idea of food allergies, and honest conversations about menu profiles, what you like/dislike, and what your favorite food items are.”
experience for the client.” —Lisa Costantini, Eatertainment Events & Catering
Sip, Savor, and Slice: Crafting Unforgettable Tastings for Wedding Catering session from Catersource + The Special Event 2024
ourtesy Lucas Botz
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SPECIAL EVENTS SPRING 2025
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