I will be honest - most of our industry all carry or do the same thing. Catering wise - everyone can make you a baked chicken. Some caterers are more experienced and may be more expensive, but that doesn't mean your guests will not remember what a fabulous meal they've had. A customer, on the phone the other day, was in the process of choosing a caterer. She asked me what I thought of each one and if I've heard any good/bad feedback about each. I told her, both caterers are the top of the line - they will match each others quote and have the same food. But- What event coordinator did you connect with more? What one, when you told them your image, understood you better? Caterers will be there all the way through your journey planning this wedding, and will also be there the day of. I think it comes down to which one do you feel, "gets you". Both may be highly skilled with tons of years in this industry, but one - will go above and beyond because they understand the image you want to display.
Also with catering companies, some may include dishes, flatware, linen in their quote. I will be honest - let them handle it. Unless you want something unique that they may not offer, caterers take responsibility for the items. If something breaks, a linen rips or a dish is missing, they are paying the replacement costs. They are (95% of the time) the ones that set up and break down all of the rentals. They also are very well skilled in how much or how little to order. If its a small caterer, they may give you a list of what to rent. Rental companies do not want to call you on your honeymoon telling you that you have $50 extra in replacement costs because there is a rack of dishes still in your garage. Some brides come in and see that our prices may be a little bit cheaper than going with the caterer- but the price that they add on is for the responsibility of the items they rented. Its something to think about.
I think the DJ/band is a very important pick. If they do not understand you two as a couple and the music you would like to dance to- it becomes a bore. Ive seen a few weddings where there were 5 people out on the dance floor, so embarrassing. They should be fun, upbeat, and get to know you. Research some play lists online and ask the DJ for some sample play lists. Someone who was born in the 90's may not want to have the B52's playing all night. Plan accordingly.
Rental and tent companies - Once again, being honest, we all do the same thing. Some may have more selection, others better delivery prices. Prices in general are mostly comparable. Just remember, most of us (I can speak for my company as well as our friends Quality Rental in Pawtucket, RI) are showing you the product in the showroom, and giving you the same product in the showroom. We are going to deliver you what we have shown you, and if we do not, we are on call 24 hours a day to troubleshoot, or replace the product that you are not happy with. We sand and paint all of our ballroom chairs every year in our full size paint booth. We have a tent washer that can wash 4,000 sq/ft of tent at one time. Make sure you ask to see a chair in the warehouse that you will be getting the day of. Some prices of other companies may be $.50 cheaper, but they may have been renting those same chairs for 10 years. Just some food for thought.
-Briana Hill
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