Q & As
DECOR
I’m using several colors for my reception so I want to use more than one color in napkins will this cost more?
No. You can use as many colors as you want at no additional charge.
What if you don’t have the napkin color or material I want?
Christiani’s has over 40 colors in napkins but occasionally clients want unusual colors or materials not included in our inclusive package. In those cases we will get what you are looking for at the most reasonable rates available.
I know that you provide white table cloths for guest tables at no charge but what if I want to add table runners or overlays, do I have to get them myself?
No. Christiani’s can provide overlays and table runners in a wide variety of colors from traditional to the latest designer colors with many starting as low as $5.00 per table. We also have floor length table cloths in different colors and materials available. Call for complete listing.
Is it possible to use more than one style of centerpiece provided by Christiani’s?
Yes. Many clients mix and match centerpieces from our selection of centerpieces provided at no charge.
I have some of my own centerpieces but not enough for all of my guest tables. Can I still use some of your centerpieces and votives?
Yes. We can still provide mirror tiles and votives for all of your guest tables as well as our additional centerpieces you choose at no additional charge.
I’d like to add flower pedals to each table and a favor at each place setting. Can Christiani’s place these for me and is there a charge?
There is no charge for Christiani’s to place these items as long as the favors are already assembled and ready for placement. Simply have them available for staff at your reception site.
FOOD
Is it possible to mix different items from one menu to another?
Absolutely just submit the changes you would like to make in writing and it will be presented to our chef to determine if there will be any pricing changes.
I am having a more casual event and like several of the buffet dinners. Can they be set up as stations?
Yes. Food stations can be a great way to encourage guests to mingle. Our sales staff can work with you on different options available.
During my cocktail hour I would like to have hand passed hors instead of having a table set up is that possible?
Yes. Just as we can customize our menus we can also customize our service to fit your needs.
I want a traditional wedding cake but I’d also like to have something a little different from everyone else. Any suggestions?
Why not have both. Perhaps a smaller wedding cake with our Temptation Tower which stand 4’ tall and be set up with assorted cupcakes or a variety of delicious individual gourmet desserts. Not what you had in mind. Then how about adding a fondue display. We can also build a fabulous sweet table display around your wedding cake.
Does Christiani’s have Ice Sculptures?
Yes. We have many designs to choose from or you can customize your sculpture.
BAR SERVICE
What does Christiani’s Bar Service include?
Christiani’s provides skirted bars and uniformed, tips trained bartenders to ensure a professional and attractive bar set up. In addition we bring with us everything needed for the preparation and service of the bar you have selected.
I’m having an outdoor summer event and I don’t really want a full bar but just having beer and wine seems a little boring.
Why not add a Sangria Bar with seasonal fruit or Majitos and Margaritas. Adding a seasonal drink to your bar can add a little fun and set you apart from the ordinary.
Do I have to use Christiani’s Catering Service in order to hire Christiani’s Bar Service?
No.
BOOKING & PAYMENT
What do I need to do to book Christiani’s Catering for my event?
After calling our office to confirm availability based on date and venue selection you simply need to print and fill out the Reservation Form and send it in with a $750.00 check for the non-refundable deposit to secure your date. (We must receive both the form and deposit to reserve your date)
What happens to the $750.00 deposit and what happens if I cancel my event?
The $750.00 deposit is applied to your final bill. This is a non-refundable deposit and will not be returned if you cancel your event.
When is the final number of guests due?
You will need to call our office 10 days prior to your event with your final number or guarantee. This is the minimum number of guests you will be billed for. You may increase the number after this time but you cannot decrease the number. A Banquet Event Order will be sent to you based on this information for your approval and signature.
When is full payment due for my event?
Payment is due 5 days prior to your event. You can make your payment by certified or cashier’s check or with a Visa or Mastercard. No personal checks.
PRICING
How are menus priced?
All menu prices are per person based on 100 person minimum and 8 seats per table. Prices for events under 100 people are listed on the Reservation Form.
Are there any children’s menus?
We do not offer specific children’s menus. We do offer a 25% discount on children under 7.
SERVING
How much time does Christiani’s need to set up for my event?
Generally we need access to your venue 3 hours before your guests are scheduled to arrive unless other arrangements have been made.
Does my contract with Christiani’s cover set up of tables and chairs?
No. Many halls include set up in the fees you pay when renting your hall. If it does not, arrangements can be made in advance for Christiani’s to provide this service. The cost for set up varies based upon the number of guests.
I’m not sure of the best way to set up my hall can Christiani’s help and what is the cost?
Christiani’s will assist you in drawing up a floor plan for your venue at no cost. If we are unfamiliar with your location we will meet you on site to discuss the best way to set up your hall.
Do I have to serve the meal as soon as my guests arrive?
All menu prices are based on a 1 hour delay for cocktails and hors from the time your guests arrive to the time the actual meal is served. Additional time can be purchased. Call our office for more details.
How long do buffet dinners serve?
Buffets are served at the time specified on your Banquet Event Order and serve for 1 1/2 hours from that time.
What happens to leftover food?
Once food is removed from the buffet it is disposed of. Leftovers can not be given out per order of the State Health Department.
MISC
I will be doing my own food and bar for my reception but I would like to use your linen and centerpieces. Am I able to rent these even if I’m not using your catering service?
Yes. We have many item available for rent regardless of whether you are using our catering service. Please see a complete list of these items on our web site.
When renting your venue check to find out if there are any catering fees or kitchen usage fees as these would be your responsibility.