How to choose a caterer who is just your taste

With all the planning that goes into a wedding or b'nai mitzvah reception, those involved want the day to be a memorable one right down to the last detail.

But what will guests remember about the big day? More than likely, it's the food that they'll end up talking about.

Whether it's a large bar or bat mitzvah or a small intimate wedding, the meal is one of the most important elements of the reception. Catering is usually the largest expense, too — from 45 to 50 percent of the budget. So it's important to make the best choices.

First, it should be determined whether the reception will be a buffet or sit-down dinner. There are advantages to both.

For a less-formal affair, a buffet is what most brides choose. It may also be less expensive. In addition, there can be more of a variety in the choice of entrees.

If it is a large gathering, some prefer a sit-down dinner so guests aren't standing in long lines. Entrees are usually limited for this style of dinner and a little more costly.

The next big step is choosing a caterer. This can be a little tricky and prices can vary quite a bit.

Some good tips on choosing a caterer are to check references, the services they provide and what type of menu is offered. Locally, Resource: A Guide to Jewish Life in the Bay Area provides listings of kosher and non-kosher caterers. Information: (415) 777-4545 or www.jewishfed.org/resource.

References are one of the most important things in choosing a caterer, which a good caterer won't hesitate to provide. A wedding couple or the family of a b'nai mitzvah student should obtain at least two names from each business they are considering and give these past clients a call.

Another good way to select the food is to schedule a tasting. These can be quite fun.

When you schedule a tasting with a prospective caterer, ask what you'll be served. Some caterers will offer bite-size samples of their specialties, while others will give larger portions of their entrees along with salads and desserts. However, since there will be wedding cake, dessert seems to be the least priority for most receptions.

Service is also an extremely important element. For buffets, some caterers just drop off the food and don't provide servers. Make sure to check on this and never assume that catering staff will stay to serve.

If servers are provided, find out how many there will be. You'll want at least one server for every 10 guests.

Don't be afraid to ask plenty of questions, such as how the food is prepared. At an elegant affair, few would want a caterer who supplies prepackaged hors d'oeuvres or warmed up frozen entrees.

Also, make sure you know who will provide the china and silverware. Ask to see the dinnerware that will be used so you are assured it isn't worn or chipped, and find out if it's included in the catering price.

Finally, don't forget to ask what will be done with the leftovers. At weddings, many times the newlyweds are so busy socializing that they don't really get to enjoy the food. Many couples like to save the leftovers for later or send them home with their families to enjoy while they are on their honeymoon.

If you think there will be a lot of leftovers, make arrangements to donate it. Food-rescue organizations like America's Second Harvest (http://www.secondharvest.org) work to quickly get perishable foods to hunger-relief programs in communities across America.