FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
A B O U T O U R S E R V I C E
What type of events do you cater for?
We cater for a wide range of events, including weddings, elopements, corporate events, private dining experiences, workshops, retreats & more.
How many people can you cater for?
We can cater for events ranging from small gatherings to large events with hundreds of guests. We specialise in large weddings and celebrations!
Do you arrive before the wedding to set the tables?
When we supply tableware (plates, cutlery & recyclable napkins) the package includes setting of the tables (usually during cocktail hour), clearing of the tables, washing/polishing & transport of these items. When we dont supply tableware our package includes the clearing, scraping & stacking of these items but does not include setting of the tables or washing/polishing of the items.
How many waitstaff do you provide?
This depends on the service itself (canapes versus grazing table, banquet versus buffet, etc. ) our staff are all cross trained & our packages are all inclusive of required waitstaff.
How much do wait staff cost per hour or are they included?
Wait staff are included in our quoted prices.
Can you cater for outdoor events?
Yes, we can cater for outdoor events and provide any necessary equipment, just be sure to let us know when enquiring so that we can chat about the location and ensure that we have everything that we will need. The only thing we dont supply is a catering tent which we require for all wilderness kitchen setups.
How early do you arrive on the day of the event?
This changes for each event depending on the type of service we are providing that day. However, we typically arrive 45 minutes to 1 hour before food service begins to set up and prepare for service. For large events we will arrive aro und1 hour prior to food service.
Can you accommodate last-minute changes or additions to the event menu?
Yes we sure can! You have up until 14 days prior to your event to finalise your menu choices and to add additional guest numbers & dietary requirements. Any changes within 14 days need to be discussed with us first to see what we can do to help, as at this stage supplies will have been ordered and staff will already be scheduled for your event.
Apart from event catering, what else do you offer?
We offer ready to heat packaged meals which are available for pick up from our commercial kitchen in wallsend and can go directly into the oven for heating when required.
Can you provide references or testimonials?
Yes, we have an amazing 5 star review average on google. You can read what our past clients have to say about us by clicking this link: https://g.page/thewildernesschef/review?rc
Do you have a cancellation policy?
All deposits are non-refundable & cannot be held as a credit. Our cancellation policy is outlined in our contract.
A B O U T O U R FOOD
Can you accommodate special dietary requirements?
Yes, we can accommodate a wide range of dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, coeliac, and more. We send out our confirmation questionnaire approximately one month prior to gather & confirm details such as final guest count, dietary requirements/allergies, timing/run sheet, menu preferences, etc. Our chefs then use this information to prepare dietary substitutions for guests with allergies.
Can you help me create a custom menu for my event?
Yes, we sure can! Simply get in touch with us and let us know what your perfect vision for the dining experience at your event looks like to you. We can then let you know what we can do to make that come to life.
Do you offer full vegetarian or vegan packages on your menu?
Yes, we can create a plant based or gluten free menu for your event. Simply let us know in advance and we will make this happen.
What do you do with the leftover food?
If you provide us with food safe containers prior to the main course being served, our team will happily package up any food safe leftover food at the end of our service and leave it on-site for you to enjoy at a later time.
Do you have any sample menus or can you provide menu suggestions?
Yes, we have a seasonal sample menu which you can select your selections from for your dining experience. Or alternatively, you can opt for the chef's selection menu where our professional chefs put together an amazing menu featuring local & in season produce.
A B O U T O U R INCLUSIONS
Do you need cooking facilities on-site or do you bring everything that you need with you?
When we know there is not a suitable kitchen onsite we can easily supply all commercial catering equipment besides a catering tent which we require to set up under. We can assist with this or can arrange this and include it in our package if you would like.
Do you supply plates and cutlery?
You can choose if you wish to add tableware onto your package. If you do, then we can provide cutlery & crockery which included setting of the tables as well.
Can you provide linens and tableware?
Yes, we can provide a range of linens napkins to suit your event style and needs although we dont supply tablecloths or table styling.
Do you provide cake cutting services?
Yes, we can provide cake cutting services as part of our catering packages. We have two different options. One is a self-serve cake station with condiments and the other is individually plated for all guests.
Do you supply bar staff?
Yes, we do supply bar staff. We can also provide both food & beverage service packages. This can also include glassware if required. Simply enquire with us to take care of this.
Do you need a cool room to be provided or do you bring one with you?
No, we do not usually require a coolroom.
A B O U T O U R PRICING
What is your pricing structure?
Our pricing is based on the type of event, number of guests, menu selection, and additional services requested. We will provide a detailed quote based on your specific needs.
Is gst included in the quoted price?
Yes, all quoted packages are inclusive of gst.
Do i need to pay a deposit?
Yes, we charge a 30% non-refundable booking fee in order to secure your booking and date. We do not need to know final guest numbers until 14 days prior to your event, which is when the final payment is due. So your invoice and booking details can be amended up until then.
Are there any additional fees that i should be aware of?
No, there are no hidden fees when booking with us. We pride ourselves on being upfront about all costs from the start and we accurately quote based on your event details. Our quotes are detailed and what is included is clearly listed. The only thing we dont included in our packages is a catering tent which is required for wilderness kitchen setups.
A B O U T BOOKING WITH US
How much notice do you need for a booking?
We recommend booking as far in advance as possible to ensure availability, but we can often accommodate last-minute bookings depending on our schedule.
Can you provide a tasting before i book your catering services?
We run our tasting events a little differently to some other companies. Our events are usually a pop up style ticketed event which is open to clients initially & depending on the venue, open to the public as well. As this is an event with multiple groups, personalised menus aren't usually available (although we obviously still cater for any and all dietary requirements). Alternatively we have had a few couples in the past choose to book us for a private dining event and they have used this as their tasting.
A B O U T OUR BUSINESS
How many years have you been in business and how many events have you catered for?
The wilderness chef has been in operation for 7 years now and we have catered for thousands of events.
Do you have public liability insurance?
Yes, we do. We are fully insured & can provide a copy of this to a venue/vendor upon receipt of their insurance documents.
Can you provide photos of past events you have catered?
Yes we sure can! We have thousands of amazing photos of our beautiful food. You can view some of our photos on our website, facebook, instagram & google profile. https://www.instagram.com/the.wilderness.chef/?hl=en
