5 Mistakes You Might Be Making When Hiring a BBQ Caterer (And How to Get It Right)
Stop right there—if you’re about to hire a BBQ caterer for your next event, you might be making one of these common mistakes. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. The good news? With just a little guidance, you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable event with mouthwatering BBQ that leaves everyone talking.
When it comes to hiring a BBQ caterer, getting it right can feel like a challenge. With so many options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But trust me, it doesn’t have to be this way. At CaliBama BBQ, we’ve helped countless clients throw memorable, stress-free events. And we’re here to make sure you do too. So, let’s dive into the 5 mistakes you might be making and how to avoid them.
1. Not Asking for the Menu
It may sound basic, but you’d be surprised how many people hire a caterer without ever asking to see the menu. While we’re sure that everyone loves BBQ, it’s essential to know exactly what you’ll be serving at your event.
The Fix: Before you book a caterer, ask to see their menu. Get clear on the options available, from meats to sides, sauces, and even drinks. At CaliBama BBQ, we offer a wide variety of delicious choices that will suit any crowd. Whether you're planning a casual family reunion or an elegant corporate event, we’ve got something for everyone.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to ask about customizations! We’re happy to accommodate dietary restrictions or special requests.
Take a look at our full menu here CaliBama BBQ Menu.
2. Not Knowing What Style You Want
Buffet-style? Plated? Family-style? There are many ways to serve BBQ, and your choice of service style can set the tone for the entire event. Understanding what you want will help you make a more informed decision.
The Fix: Take a moment to think about how you want your guests to experience the meal. If you want a casual, laid-back vibe, a buffet may be the way to go. If you're planning a more formal event, a plated dinner might be a better choice. Either way, we’ll work with you to make sure everything goes smoothly.
Pro Tip: If you’re not sure, don’t hesitate to ask for advice. We’re happy to help you decide what will best suit your event.
3. Forgetting to Ask About Customization Options
If you have a specific dish in mind that’s not on the menu, or if you need to cater to guests with dietary restrictions, make sure to ask about customization options. It’s important to know that we can make adjustments to meet your needs.
The Fix: When you talk to a caterer, ask if they can accommodate special requests. At CaliBama BBQ, we’re more than happy to work with you to create the perfect spread for your event, whether it’s a special sauce, vegan options, or gluten-free sides.
Pro Tip: The earlier you ask, the more time the caterer will have to accommodate your needs. So don’t wait until the last minute to make these requests!
4. Not Understanding the Booking Process
It’s easy to assume that once you’ve spoken with a caterer, your date is automatically reserved. But here’s the thing: you can’t hold your date until you’ve made a deposit. Without that deposit, the date could be taken by someone else.
The Fix: When you book your catering, make sure you understand the deposit process. A deposit is required to officially reserve your date, so don’t wait too long to secure it.
Pro Tip: Book as early as possible to avoid losing your desired date. Popular dates fill up fast, especially during the warmer months!
5. Thinking You Need Teeth to Eat Our Meats
At CaliBama BBQ, we pride ourselves on making our meats so tender that you don’t need to worry about chewing for hours. Our meats are slow-cooked to perfection and practically fall off the bone.
The Fix: Rest easy knowing that our meats are incredibly tender and easy to eat, no matter your age. Whether it’s our juicy, grilled chicken or slow-smoked tri-tip, we make sure every bite is as delicious as the first.
Pro Tip: If you have guests with specific needs or preferences, let us know in advance so we can accommodate them. We want every guest to enjoy their meal!
Ready to Book Your BBQ?
Now that you know how to avoid the most common mistakes when hiring a BBQ caterer, it’s time to get your event planned. At CaliBama BBQ, we’re committed to making your event memorable with delicious food and seamless service.
Next Steps: Pick your event date, choose your menu, decide whether you want buffet-style or plated, and make your deposit. That’s it! We’ll take care of the rest.
And if you’re still looking for ideas on how to host the perfect BBQ, check out our blog post on How to Host a Soulful BBQ, CaliBama-Style.
Let’s get started! Reach out to us today to book your BBQ experience.