Catering Estimate Template
A catering estimate is an approximate calculation of the cost a caterer will charge to serve food and drinks at a particular event. The factors that influence the price of a catering estimate include materials used, time spent on the job, and the experience of the catering company.
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What to Include on a Catering Estimate
Catering estimates should include the customer’s and the catering company’s addresses and phone numbers. The invoice must include food costs, labor, stations, service fees, taxes, and sometimes a deposit or cancellation fee.
3 Steps to Sending a Catering Estimate
Step 1: Gathering Information Provided by Client Ask the client for the exact number of individuals attending their event and where the event will be held. Catering companies must know how much food and drink they must provide, so knowing the specific number of attendees is crucial to serving them well.
Step 2: Creating an Estimate Catering companies can use an electronic or physical estimate. The estimate should include the contact information of both the caterer and client and the service the caterer will provide. It should also include the number of people present, the estimated number of hours the event will last, the cost of set-up and clean-up, and terms for payment.
Step 3: Sending The Estimate If the catering company chooses to use a digital estimate, the client will receive it by email. If a physical copy is the preferred option, it must be handed to the client or mailed. If the estimate is delivered to the client at the location where the catering company will provide the service, this would be an excellent time to plan and prepare for the event.
Can I Change the Price of a Catering Estimate?
Yes, prices can always change. The estimate should always state that prices are subject to change. Abrupt price changes can be due to many factors, such as changes in the price of ingredients or food shortages, the addition or removal of attendees, and changes in location.
Average Cost of Catering
Prices are estimated according to the number of people, catering style, location, food used, and the caterer’s expertise. Formal Dinner: $140 per person Informal Food Station: $25-45 per person Buffet: $23 per person Corporate Event: $70 per person (Source: Thumbtack.com) Weddings: $1,800-$7000 (Source: Weddingwire.com)