What to know before hiring a private chef/caterer

I love working with new clients but so many people tell me they have “never hired a private chef before” so I thought I would give a little more information from my perspective.

As a caterer, I want to know key information like how many people you’ll be expecting, any food allergies or aversions and any dishes you would love to see on the menu.

Personally, I have been a chef for over 20 years, and I have worked on so many styles of menu and cuisines so I can create and infuse dishes to your specific preferences. That is the biggest benefit to working with me is food and infusions made specifically for you.

Other things I will ask you about is Dishware and Glassware.

Your air bnb comes with plates, but does it come with enough plates to serve 3 or 4 dishes to each guest? A 4 course meal for 10 people is 40 plates, which is more than most homes just have on hand. So i may need to rent plates and flatware for your group which does come at an additional cost.

That being said… I can rent plates, dishware, tables, chairs and just about everything else you may want to make your event picture perfect!

It is always helpful to me to know what budget you have in mind.

I try to work with every budget, and knowing how much you would like to or not like to spend helps me plan out the perfect catering for you.

So lets say your budget is $500 for 10 people…

I might not be able to give you a 4 course tasting menu, but I can create 2 large grazing boxes for you and your group that has multiple infused freshly made dips, home made cookies/crackers, and a choice of cheese along side other snacks that fit into your preferences.

I have created beautiful dining experiences on top of a mountain and in a greenhouse, building a chefs table style restaurant from scratch, so your request is not “too big” or “too wild”, just keep in mind that it will be priced accordingly and that kind of catering requires extra staff, rentals, travel time, etc. From infused cupcakes to planning a canna getaway for you and your best friends, I can plan it all just for you.

Private Chef service pricing can vary from $75 per person up to $750 per person depending on the service, rentals and travel. So including your budget can help me create the perfect experience just for you.

I can’t speak for other caterers and private chefs but clean up is included in the price. My goal is for you to enjoy being a host or a guest and not have to worry about little things like doing the dishes and taking out the trash. We take care of everything so you can enjoy your party!

We just need a clean place to set up and cook, and we can take it from there!

I also offer non-infused chef services, if you are looking for a private chef to cook meals just for you without getting elevated.

Planning ahead is great! I do recommend getting your catering request in 4 plus weeks before your catering date. This helps me put together a menu that is seasonal and tailored to your taste. BUT, life happens, so occasionally I am able to take last minute bookings, just reach out and ask!

If you have any questions about hiring me to plan something just for you, just reach out! I’d love to help you celebrate!

livviesmallsevents@gmail.com