After the kitchen, the front of the house is the most important section of your catering business. Actually, an argument could be made that the front of the house is the most important area, as it and your employees working it are the very public face of your catering enterprise. In any case, it’s very important however you end up ranking it, and this importance merits it the utmost care and attention. Unlike at home, you almost always need to have the good china, the shiny cutlery, and clearest glassware on display when you host an event or gathering. Who you choose to supply you could make a difference in your success.
Crockery
By and large, the crockery is what your guests will spend the most time looking at (aside from other guests, of course). There is beauty in simplicity, and ivory-coloured, off-white crockery works well for almost any occasion. Whether it’s for a business meeting, a bar mitzvah or a wedding, the crockery should be seen as an element of the whole presentation. To get a better idea of what kinds of bowls, plates, look into the large selection of front of house supplies by Pattersons. With a long tradition in the business, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more knowledgeable guide in keeping your front of house supplied.
Cutlery
Unless the whole meal will consist of finger-based starters, cutlery is an absolute must. Whilst a children’s grouping will not necessarily appreciate or get the most out of a silver spoon or knife, a gathering of businessmen will. If the cutlery isn’t up to snuff, rest assured you may not get their repeat business. If you didn’t already know, for a caterer repeat business could be the lifeblood of the company. From a wholesaler, you can find many different varieties of high-quality cutlery for an affordable price. Buy in bulk, and you won’t have to worry when individual pieces disappear in guest’s bags and pockets!
Glassware
What are your guests imbibing, and from what? If there’s an open bar, then perhaps they’re using bottles. Then again, if it’s wine they’re drinking, you’re going to have to provide the glasses (and replace any that, inevitably, end up broken by the event’s conclusion). There’s no need for you to spend an inordinate amount of money for glassware when a wholesaler can provide you with ample supplies of affordable yet quality glasses. Chances are, the drinkers won’t care much about the glasses…but that doesn’t mean you, as the proprietor or caterer, can afford to do the same.
You probably choose your clothes quite carefully in the morning, or when preparing for a night on the town. When not catering, you are your own front of the house, and you want to look your best. Shouldn’t your catering service or restaurant be treated with equal care and attention? Rather than pay through the nose for bulk supplies, a wholesaler can provide you with supplies that will impress and leave you counting the money you’ve saved, instead of spent.