How to Choose the right caterer for Your Big Day - and why Tastings Matter.

By Chef Tab, Bewitched Catering of Lake Cumberland

Getting to know Bewitched Catering of Lake Cumberland is like finding a long-lost family member. From the first hello to the final bite, I want every client to feel like they're sitting down with a good friend - someone who's listening, excited, and genuinely invested in making their vision come to life. Because when it comes to food, it's never just about the menu; it's about creating moments that linger long after the last plate is cleared.

The Heart of Choosing the Right Caterer

Choosing a caterer for your big day can feel overwhelming - I get it. There are endless menus, price points, and styles out there. But here's the secret I've learned after years of catering weddings, corporate events, baby showers, family reunions, and everything in between:

It's not just about finding someone who can cook - it's about finding someone who gets you.

When I sit down with a couple or client for the first time, I like to start by asking questions - lots of them. What's your vision? What kind of atmosphere do you want to create? What colors, theme, and details are important to you? Most importantly, what food brings you joy - the kind that makes you smile just thinking about it?

These conversations matter. Food is deeply personal, and understanding a client's story helps me craft a menu that fits their style, personality, and celebration. Whether it's an elegant plated dinner overlooking Lake Cumberland or a casual backyard wedding filled with laughter and love, every event is as unique as the people we serve.

A great caterer listens first and cooks second. They care about the presentation, the timing, and the feeling guests have when they take that first bite. You should walk away from your first meeting feeling like your ideas were heard and that your vision is in good hands.

Why Tastings Matter - More Than You Might Think

Here's one of my best pieces of advice: never skip the tasting.

Yes, you'll pay for it but trust me - it's worth every penny. As my mom used to say, "the proof is in the pudding. Pictures can make food look pretty, but what truly matters is how it tastes. You can't fake flavor, and you can't fake that feeling when something just melts in your mouth and makes you say, "oh wow".

Tastings are your chance to experience your caterer's food, style, and personality up close. You'll discover what proteins, starches, and sides feel right for your first meal as husband and wife - not just what looks good on paper.

When you leave a tasting, you should feel excited and confident. Your stomach should be happy, your heart should be lighter, and you should be able to imagine those dishes being served on your special day with pride.

And here's my rule of thumb: if a caterer doesn't encourage a tasting or brushes it off as unnecessary, you might want to reconsider. A tasting isn't just a formality - it's the foundation for trust, creativity, and a shared vision.

Real Moments, Real Memories

Over the years, Bewitched Catering of Lake Cumberland has had the honor of being part of so many incredible celebrations. Each one comes with its own story, its own flavor, and its own kind of magic.

I will never forget one wedding back in Michigan - a couple who were, hands down, one of the most fun and unforgettable clients we've ever had. When their bridal party made their grand entrance, each couple performed their own unique dance routine - and yes, there were even a few flips over shoulders! The energy was contagious, and by the time dinner was served, the whole room was buzzing with love and laughter. We still stay in touch to this day, which to me says it all.

Then there was the wedding on the bluffs of Lake Michigan - breathtaking. We handled all the rental table settings, glassware, dinnerware, and barware. As the sun set over the water, the tables glowed in golden light, creating one of the prettiest setups we've ever done. The food, the setting, the smiles - everything came together perfectly.

And I can't leave out the wedding where the guests invited me onto the dance floor after dinner service. I said no at least three times (the kitchen still needed me!), but they wouldn't take no for an answer (never say NO to local and federal police officers, lol). Before I knew it, I was out there dancing with the guests (one song only), laughing and feeling completely swept up in the joy of the moment. That's the kind of connection I'll never forget - and one of the many reasons I LOVE what I DO.

These moments are priceless. They remind me that catering isn't just about feeding people - it's about serving memories. Every event is a story, and I'm honored to play a part in helping people tell theirs through food.

Final Thoughts from Chef Tab

At the end of the day, choosing the right caterer is about more than menus and budgets. It's about trust, connection, and knowing that your vision is in the hands of someone who cares as much as you do.

When you hire Bewitched Catering of Lake Cumberland, you're not just getting a team who shows up with trays of food - you're getting a partner who's as excited about your celebration as you are. We listen, we laugh, we plan, and we pour our hearts into every event we touch.

Because when we break bread together - surrounded by love, laughter, and great food, that's when the real magic happens.

So, if you're planning your big day, take your time, ask the right questions, and never skip that tasting. After all, as Mom always said..."The Proof Is In The Pudding" .