Choosing the right caterer and, of course, the right food could be a key factor that determines the success or otherwise of your wedding reception. But where to start? Carlos Borg at Mannarinu Caterers dishes out the basics.

Start with the most important questions

Every couple wants the assurance that the caterer they’re booking and food they’re ordering is top quality, within their budget and accompanied by the best serving staff as well as table settings. “Many couples ask about menu customisation and catering for different dietary requirements too,” says Carlos Borg.

“From the very initial call, we start by getting to know the couple to really understand their dreams for their big day. We communicate every step of the way by working within a determined budget, listening to the couple’s concerns and helping with the final arrangements.”

From consulting to booking

“For the initial meeting, couples are introduced to our yearly updated wedding catalogue with various wedding packages. Our second meeting involves food sampling carried out either privately or during one of our Wedding Open Days. After choosing the appropriate menu, our consultants will guide the couple to sign their wedding date contract, and up to a few weeks before the wedding, our team handles the necessary changes to the chosen menu with our wedding consultants together with an on-site visit at the couple’s chosen venue,” says Carlos.

“The team at Mannarinu Caterers enjoys being creative, particularly with bespoke wedding cakes that often feature out-of-the-box ideas. Since the design process varies from one client to another, a wedding cake consultation is held separately to conclude the final design.

The game-changing factors

It’s of little surprise that an excellent service on the day is considered to be of utmost importance, which you should communicate with your caterer of choice. “Excellent service is one of our cornerstones, and we will go to any length to ensure a couple’s wedding catering is managed in the most professional manner possible.” A highly trained team of chefs, head waiters, waiters, runners, barmen and kitchen helpers come together with their own set of responsibilities on the day, while a member of the management team is present for the wedding to ensure all runs smoothly.

“Couples are guided on the choice of items, number of portions, frequency of servings, beverages and the number of waiters and waitresses needed, and can also be provided with bars, marquees, tables, chairs, linen, cutlery, crockery, and décor. Our bespoke catering service is hands on – we assist throughout, ensuring we match tastes and budget. To ensure our undivided attention, in fact, we only cater for one wedding per day,” says Carlos. “And when it comes to food quantity and variety, creativity is the name of the game – couples are increasingly gravitating towards eye-catching displays and interactivity, with menu options and quantities amended up to three weeks prior the wedding.”

Innovative food stations will be big in 2018

Couples are constantly on the look out to formulate a menu that represents their tastes and preferences, and for their guests to take notice. Innovative catering that breaks from tradition is certainly on the rise. “In 2018, food stations will continue to be an ideal way of showcasing food creatively, in order to wow guests and please an array of palates.”

“A pizza station serving bite-size pizza portions with different toppings creates a relaxed and laid-back vibe, while a Burger Bar serving a choice of different grilled burgers with different toppings and fries shots is a perfect party item that will whet guests’ appetites,” says Carlos. “Of course, the classic Cheese & Parma table is a feast for the senses, offering a tempting selection of different cheeses and meats. But, saving the best for last, an extensive coffee table which is artistically presented and tailored to the couples’ specifications is surely a must-have. All of these are offered at Mannarinu Caterers, and with over thirty types of mini petite fours and two chocolate fountains, our coffee table guarantees to make a statement at every wedding.”

Visit Mannarinu Caterer’s first of five wedding open days in 2018, being held on 17th February at Eden Lodge, Zurrieq, from 4 to 10pm, with the participation of some of Malta’s best wedding exhibitors. Book a consultation or food tasting session here, call on 21245080 or email on [email protected].