Frequently asked
QUESTIONS
How do we arrange an appointment with you to discuss our wedding or event catering?
An appointment can be made over the phone or via email. A member of our team will visit you at a time convenient for you. We always try to make the appointment in the comfort of your own home to discuss your requirements wherever possible, or you can visit us at our premises - subject availability.
What do we discuss during the meeting and what happens next?
The focus of the meeting is to get to know you a little better and to get a feel of what you are looking for, we will talk through your plans, menu and event ideas, once we have a better idea of what you require for the event we will put together a detailed proposal and quote for your day. Tasting sessions can be arranged if required and for this, we invite you to our showroom.
How far do you travel?
Distance is not a problem for us we travel up and down the country.
How long can you hold our proposed date?
It partly depends on the date! The summer months are always very busy and we do get booked up 3 years in advance, the main thing for us is that you know we are available if you need us and so we keep in touch with you to see how things are moving along. We can accommodate multiple events on one day!
We’d like to book with you, but we’d also like to try the food first! Is that possible?
Absolutely we value the personal touch where clients are handled one to one directly by ourselves, we hold our tastings in our showroom where you can try a selection of dishes – usually 4-8 canapés, two starters, two main courses and two desserts, depending on what you are thinking of having on your day, there is a small charge for the tasting which will be deducted from your deposit upon confirmation of your booking. You can even bring your parents to try our food too!
We’re convinced! What happens next?
To secure the date we ask for a deposit payment along with a signed copy of our terms and conditions, the deposit only confirms our services on that date, the final balance is invoiced to you 4 weeks before the big day when you know final numbers and details. Once the deposit is paid the date is booked and confirmed.
How can I pay?
We can offer the most modern forms of payment for your ease, we are happy to take payments by Cheque, Cash, B A C S, Debit card, and monthly payments all set up to help with your budgets.
What does “Price per person” include?
Ridgway Caterers offer a Detailed Pricing Structure so that our clients understand the total amount of money they will have to spend.
Our price includes all crockery, cutlery and glassware, white luxury table linen, full waitress service, all kitchen equipment, laying-up of all tables, all food delivered in refrigerated transport, locally-sourced and freshly prepared on-site, all washing-up and clearing away after the event, there are no hidden extras in the cost.
Extras may include coloured linen hire, bar staff if required, etc.
Can I offer my guests a choice menu?
Yes by all means, we will tailor your menu to suit your needs; choice menus on the day will not affect your price if pre-booked before your event 4 weeks in advance - but please note we will need to know the exact numbers for each choice in advance, and we will also need a detailed table plan showing where each guest is sitting and what their choices are.
Can I supply my own evening food?
Yes by all means, if you are organizing a wedding and you only require us to provide your Wedding Breakfast meal, and you supply your own evening requirements, it’s not a problem.
Can I order something that isn’t on any of your menu options?
Yes, we are more than happy to prepare and cook any food that you require even if it’s not on our menus, all our menus are interchangeable.
Can you cater for special dietary requirements?
Yes, we can. We will ask you about these at your tasting and when we ask for final numbers and details and suggest any menu alternatives or adjustments necessary. Please ask us about allergen information if required – we will be happy to provide it!
Do we have to have a three-course formal meal?
No, we are happy to devise menus for two-course meals, family-style services, buffets or canapé receptions – it is entirely up to you! We can advise depending on the timings of your day, but again, it is your day.
What training do your staff have and what do they wear?
We have a pool of regular event staff and chefs who have worked for us for years we hold training sessions every year for new staff and all are routinely trained in Food Hygiene practices.
Staff are smart and presentable and wear all-black shirts, aprons, white gloves, gold ties, black trousers, black shoes and bar aprons.
Our staff which prepare your food and look after you at your tasting will be at your function so you are familiar with them.
Will you be able to cut and serve our cake?
Yes, we’d be happy to do this. Traditionally wedding cake was served with coffee, but we’ve found that more and more people prefer to serve their cake as part of their evening food. We will cut and serve your cake free of charge.
We would like a bar in the evening. Is that something you could do?
We would be happy to provide a bar and bar tariff is available on request. Please check with your venue that this is possible, as some venues prefer to provide bar services themselves. We will happily provide any requested drinks in accordance with venue rules. You may need a Temporary Events Notice depending on your venue.
Are you licensed?
Yes, we provide public liability and product insurance, we have personal license holders for your alcohol and bar requirements.