Planning any event has enough challenges—your caterer shouldn’t add to that stress. At Jess In Thyme, we’ve worked on small dinners and big parties, and understand how a bad caterer can hurt your event’s vibe and quality. To help you pick the right one, here are common hiring mistakes and how to avoid them for a smooth, successful event.

1. Hiring a Caterer Without Knowing Their Style

Every chef has a signature, and every catering company operates differently. Some are buffet-only. Some reheat food off-site. Some don’t do customizations.

At Jess In Thyme, everything is scratch-made, seasonal, and plated with intention. If a caterer’s style doesn’t match the vibe of your event, you’ll feel the mismatch immediately.

Always ask:
– Do they cook on-site?
– Do they plate or only do pans/drop-off?
– Do they customize menus?

2. Choosing the Cheapest Quote

Cheaper isn’t better — it usually means something is missing. Maybe fewer staff. Maybe lower-quality ingredients. Maybe no cleanup. Maybe they’re buying frozen food.

Your guests won’t remember the price — they’ll remember the food and experience. Choose value, not simply the lowest number.

3. Forgetting to Ask About Staff & Service

The food may be incredible, but service is what keeps your event running smoothly. Not every caterer includes enough staff to actually execute your menu.

Think about:
– Servers to plate or pass hors d’oeuvres
– People to clear dishes
– A chef on-site
– A dedicated team for setup + breakdown

Insufficient staffing = delayed food + unhappy guests + chaos behind the scenes.

4. Not Understanding What’s Actually Included

Some caterers charge separately for plates, utensils, warming equipment, delivery, setup, and cleaning.

At Jess In Thyme, I’m clear about what’s included and where optional add-ons may be needed — no surprises.

Before choosing a caterer, make sure you know:
– What equipment they provide
– What you’re responsible for
– What upgrades or rentals cost

5. Forgetting About Dietary Needs Until It’s Too Late

Every event today involves a mix of dietary requests: gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, allergies, pescatarian, etc.

A professional caterer should be ready to accommodate these without sacrificing flavor or aesthetics.

If they sound unsure or inflexible, run.

6. Not Asking for a Tasting or Photos of Past Work

A caterer’s portfolio should tell a clear story: consistency, presentation, quality, and accuracy.
If tastings aren’t offered, you should at least receive detailed menu descriptions and real photos of past events.

(At Jess In Thyme, tastings are always an option for larger events.)

7. Overlooking Communication Style

A caterer may cook well — but if they communicate poorly, your event will feel stressful.

Pay attention to:
– How quickly they respond
– Whether they listen instead of just selling
– If they guide you through options
– If their process feels organized

Event planning should feel collaborative, not confusing.

8. Assuming Every Caterer Can Handle Every Venue

Some venues have kitchens. Some don’t. Some allow open flame. Some require outside rentals.

Your caterer should either know your venue or be able to do a walkthrough beforehand.

At Jess In Thyme, I always evaluate the space to make sure timing and flow match your menu.

9. Waiting Too Long to Book

Catering calendars fill quickly — especially around holidays, wedding season, and graduation months.

Booking early gives you:
– More menu options
– Better scheduling
– More flexibility
– Time to make adjustments

If food is a centerpiece of your event, reserve your date early.

10. Not Choosing a Caterer Who Actually Cares About Your Event

Food is personal. Your event is personal. You deserve a caterer who treats it that way.

Jess In Thyme is boutique on purpose — I take a limited number of events so I can focus on quality, detail, and a memorable guest experience.

Choose someone who cares about your vision, not just your invoice.

Ready to Plan Your Event?

Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner or a full celebration, I’ll help you craft a menu that feels personal, seasonal, and beautifully executed.

Want to talk details or check a date?
Let’s create something unforgettable — together.