We hired a chef, who also owns several restaurants. Also paid ahead of time, which I found a little worrisome, but everything went without a hitch.

No don’t tip on top of the gratuity. We typically pay the final balance on the day of the event.

Anonymous wrote:We cater our summer party every year. I think DH makes a deposit, then pays before event, perhaps day of. Then we handle the tips on site.

Thanks. They already included the gratuity. Do you tip on top of that?

We cater our summer party every year. I think DH makes a deposit, then pays before event, perhaps day of. Then we handle the tips on site.

Anonymous wrote:Is this a reputable caterer? What are their reviews like? I don’t know if it’s customary, but if it’s not customary, and they have a good reputation with good reviews, then I would not worry about it.

They have several restaurants and also cater. Good reviews. I guess I'll just pay it and hope for the best.

Is this a reputable caterer? What are their reviews like? I don’t know if it’s customary, but if it’s not customary, and they have a good reputation with good reviews, then I would not worry about it.

Not customary.

bump

I'm catering a private event for my partner's 50th birthday party. The caterer asked for a deposit initially which I was happy to pay. They just sent me the final invoice and said it's due before the event. Is this customary? How do I make sure they actually show up with the food? I'm not trying to be difficult but just never thought they'd want to be paid before they provide any service.