Q: What should I consider when selecting a caterer?
A: At Elyse's we pride ourselves on quality, service and flexibility. The caterer you select should be flexible to your individual needs, provide personalized service and deliver a quality product to help make your event a success! We can also offer suggestions and create menus to fit your budget.
Q: How soon in advance should I start planning my event?
A: Typically, for larger events, Elyse's Catering suggests a minimum of a month advanced planning. For weddings and events during peak season, 6-9 months advance planning is recommended. If you are planning a wedding, please inquire about our Wedding Workshops held each month!
Q: How do I know how much of everything to order?
A: We can help you determine the quantity of food to order based on other foods you might be serving, the number of adults vs. children, women vs. men, time of day, time of year, etc. Elyse's staff can easily assist you in finding the right items and portions to suit your unique needs.
Q: Can I take the leftover food home?
A: Because of state health regulations, we are generally unable to release leftover food (with some exceptions). Please ask our office if you would like to save leftovers and we can determine what will work for your individual needs. We need to ensure safe handling of food once it is no longer in our possession.
Q: Do you provide service staff and rental equipment?
A: Yes. We have experienced servers and bartenders to staff your event and attend to your guests' needs. We also offer linen and serviceware rentals and can contract with local vendors for tables, tents, chairs and other specialty items.
Q: Can you recommend vendors for photos, music, flowers, and venues?
A: Yes, we work with many local vendors in the area and would be happy to provide you contact information or assist you with the coordination of any of these services for your event.
Q: How much of the cleanup am I responsible for after an event?
A: In general, what we bring to your event, we take back with us. Our staff can also be contracted to provide further cleanup services, based on your individual needs. Please ask our office staff for further information.
Q: Do you require a deposit?
A: For our staffed events, a 50% deposit is requested at the signing of your contract. Your remainder of your event cost is due two days prior to your event. Once you have provided your final guest count, at the required date, your guest count may increase, but not decrease.
Q: How do I pay for my order?
A: We require payment the day of your event. We require a credit card to guarantee all delivery orders, with the exception of pre-approved corporate and Washington State clients. We accept MC, Visa and AMEX. Please let us know if you'd like to pay by other means, otherwise, we will run your card the day of your event and provide an email receipt (we can also provide hard-copy receipts if needed). Established corporate clients will receive an invoice via email.