The phone rang at 9am this morning. I was sure it was family phoning to wish us a Happy New Year. Nope, it's a bride looking for a quote. She was adamant about talking to the chef, sorry Ma'am, he's not here (he's in bed !!). Being the nice person I am, I take down all the information. The caterer she had been dealing with, and gave her a menu within her budget, is no longer returning her calls (I sense a problem here). She tells me her max budget and what she wants (carved in stone). Two passed apps, beef carving station, chicken Piccata, two starch, two veg, bread/butter, full coffee/tea service, sweet tea, lemonade,bar tender, real linens and china (no disposables for her wedding!). Oh, and a Dessert Tapas Bar. After I get off the phone (after telling her Chef will NOT be returning your call within an hour, it will be tomorrow)I did the math. After the basic costs, taxes, admin fee, rentals etc, she has $2.46 per person for the meal. If I take off the cost of the Carving Staion and the Dessert Bar, she's in the negative. I think we'll be passing on this one.
Practice safe lunch. Use a condiment.