On occasion you'll discover the caterer either owns, or is employed by, the reception hall: so you may be able to kill two birds with one stone. For the sake of description however, we will assume it's a separate business. Again, hire a professional ---your party depends on it. This is usually the first and possibly the only get together of all the family members on both sides. A well planned and catered reception will assist in removing the tension and help to bridge the gaps in generations. It may even be the spark in a new relationship or two. The important thing to remember when ordering is the customs of the people eating the food. Make sure you select a variety to please even the fussiest taste buds. The caterer will give you a choice of menus and work out a price per plate that may include: all set-up, service, china and cutlery, wine, champagne, glasses, dessert, clean-up, tips, bar service, and midnight buffet. Today's caterers are quite versatile and can quote on receptions from 25 people to 2500. If you are planning to have food at your shower or perhaps a bar and buffet at a stag and doe party, or even just bar service for a stag or fund raiser, discuss possibilities of the professional caterer doing it all. You'll be pleasantly surprised at the discounts you'll receive and have the piece of mind of knowing it's all done. You have enough to worry about with the rest of your plans. [ back ]