Planning a catered event, such as a wedding or birthday party, is exciting but also stressful if you’re not prepared, especially when it comes to hiring catering equipment. Still, many people slip up on a few common mistakes that can easily be avoided. Here’s what to watch out for when organising your next event or catering hire in Cardiff.
1. Not Planning Ahead Enough
This is the big one. Leaving hiring your catering equipment to the last minute can limit your options and pile on stress. The best suppliers get booked early, especially during busy seasons like summer weddings or Christmas parties.
Start planning your catering hire as soon as your event date is confirmed. Think and make a list of everything you might need, right down to the knives and forks. It might seem obvious, but under the stress of planning, it can be easily forgotten. A little early planning saves a lot of panic later.
2. Underestimating Equipment Numbers
It’s easy to overlook how much kit you’ll actually need. You might think you’ve ordered enough plates or glasses, but once the guests arrive, you suddenly realise you’re short. When planning a catered event, it’s always best to allow for extras. Hire a few spare chairs, extra cutlery and additional serving dishes.
You can contact us to discuss your guest numbers and the type of food service you’re running. We’ll help you estimate what’s right so you’re fully covered.
3. Forgetting To Ask About Delivery & Pickup
This catches many people out. Before confirming your catering equipment hire, always ask about delivery and pickup details. Will the items be dropped off and collected at set times? Do you need to have everything cleaned before collection? Getting clear on this avoids any surprises or last-minute issues on the day.
At Top Table Catering Hire, we offer clear delivery and collection in Cardiff and South Wales for all of our catering equipment, ready to make your event a success.
4. Not Double Checking Equipment on Arrival
Once your equipment arrives, check everything straight away. It only takes a few minutes to make sure you’ve received the correct items and that they’re in good condition. If anything’s missing or damaged, contact your catering hire company immediately so they can sort it out.
Want More Help Planning a Flawless Catering Setup?
If you want to avoid these mistakes when hiring catering equipment, our informational guides can help:
- Your Complete Catering Essentials Guide – covers everything you’ll need for a well-equipped event
- How to Efficiently Set Up Your Catering Equipment – tips for organising buffet lines, power access, food flow
- How to Choose the Right Table for Catering – which shapes/size tables suit different events
And of course, if you want help putting together a full equipment list, delivery plan or layout for your event, we’d be happy to assist.
Ready To Make Your Event Run Smoothly?
Hiring catering equipment just takes the right planning and the right team behind you. At Top Table Catering Hire, we’ve helped hundreds of customers across Cardiff and South Wales, who have all hired our catering equipment for their events, such as weddings, corporate functions and summer parties.
Explore our full range of catering equipment hire options on our website, or get in touch today for a quick quote.