Choosing a catering service style
Think about how you want guests to receive their food as well as what you want them to eat. The right service plan should fit your venue, timetable and guests. Describe your preferred approach to Fables so the food, staffing and equipment can be confirmed together.
Buffet service
A buffet brings the food together in a serving area where guests can choose from the agreed menu. Consider where people will queue, how they will reach their tables and whether anyone will need help collecting a plate. Tell us whether you would like guests called up together, by table or in smaller groups.
Explore the buffet catering options, then ask what the proposed quote includes. Delivery, setup, serving staff and clearing arrangements need to be clear for your particular booking.
Grazing tables and boards
If you are considering grazing tables and boards, discuss how the food will fit into the rest of the event. Say whether it is the main food offering or part of a wider menu, how many guests will eat and when they will have access to it.
Check the proposed display position and the venue’s available space. Agree the food quantity, presentation and service arrangements with Fables rather than relying on a photograph to define your package.
Canapés and reception food
For reception food, consider where guests will gather and whether you would prefer a serving point or staff circulating with the food. Explain the timing of the next meal so the reception and main catering can be planned together.
Read the canapé selection and discuss your preferred service. Staff numbers and service duties should be confirmed as part of the quote.
Street food and hot catering
For street food catering, plan a clear route to the serving point and enough room for guests to collect food. Tell Fables about access restrictions, the proposed cooking and serving area, and any venue rules that may affect the setup.
Confirm the serving period and booked food quantity for your selected service. If guests will arrive in groups or at different times, include that in the enquiry so the timetable can be considered before booking.
Staff, tableware and clearing
List the help you want with serving, guest assistance or clearing and ask for the agreed duties to be itemised. The waiting staff page is a useful starting point for discussing additional support.
Check whether plates, cutlery, napkins, tables or other equipment are included, supplied by your venue or quoted separately. Agree who will handle guest waste, bins and venue cleaning; do not assume that every kind of clearing is included.
Confirm the complete plan
Preferred menu and way of serving it.
Guest numbers, serving time and any staggered arrivals.
Venue access, serving space and required facilities.
Agreed staff duties, tableware and clearing responsibilities.
Discuss food intolerance requests before booking. Fables does not cater for food allergies; the full dietary policy is on the buffet page.
Request a tailored catering quote with these details so Fables can confirm what can be provided.