Planning food for an event can bring on more stress than expected, especially when you’re trying to keep things smooth and crowd-friendly. When a group is gathered for a birthday, game day, or winter get-together in Chicago, IL or Dyer, IN, pizza catering offers a way to feed everyone without too much back and forth. But not all catering is the same, and there are some simple but smart questions that help things go better from the start.
As we get into the last stretch of winter, events tend to move indoors again, and that brings its own set of things to consider when it comes to serving food. We’ve put together a checklist of what to ask before booking so your event stays on track and no one leaves hungry.
Ask How Many People the Catering Can Serve
One of the first things we focus on is knowing how many people we’re trying to feed. It might seem obvious, but getting the number right from the beginning shapes everything else. If your guest list isn’t locked down, it’s still helpful to give your best estimate.
• Ask if the caterer gives portion guidelines based on group size. That can help avoid overordering or running out halfway through.
• Find out if there are pizza sizes or special packages for different group types like kids, adults, or mixed ages.
• See if there are any simple sides or drinks available to round out the meal, especially if you’re planning for lunch or dinner time.
At Doreen’s Pizzeria, our catering menu features party trays, Italian beef, pasta, wings, and a variety of pizza sizes to fit any guest list. Making sure the food matches the crowd size helps everything run smoother and cuts down on waste or awkward shortages.
Understand What’s Included in the Package
It’s easy to assume your order comes with everything needed, but catering setups can vary a lot. No one wants to be scrambling last minute for napkins or places to put the food.
• Ask if the order includes paper plates, napkins, and disposable utensils. While they might seem minor, missing items like these can create real hang-ups during serving.
• See whether the food is delivered hot and set up by the driver or just dropped off. If it’s dropped off, you’ll want to have tables ready and maybe warming trays if the event has a slower pace.
• Check if the service can handle both indoor and outdoor arrangements. During February in this part of the Midwest, events are likely indoors, but you might still host in a garage or heated patio.
Knowing what comes with the food helps you prepare the space without any last-minute surprises.
Clarify Timing and Delivery Details
Timing matters a lot when you’re balancing guests, activities, and food. We always recommend pinning this down early so you’re not rushing the day of.
• Ask how far in advance you should place the catering order. Some places can prep quickly, while others need a day or two, or more.
• Find out how close to the event the pizza will be delivered, and how long it stays hot in the boxes provided. If you’re eating right away, no problem. But if there’s a bit of a gap, you may need to plan ahead to keep things warm.
• Ask if it’s possible to add more food on short notice. Things happen. Maybe more kids show up than expected, or appetites are bigger. It’s good to know if last-minute flexibility is an option.
We offer delivery and carryout catering in Chicago, IL and Dyer, IN, so you can count on fresh food brought right to your chosen space. Being clear on timing helps the entire day feel less rushed and more relaxed.
Make Sure Food Options Work for Everyone
The great thing about pizza is that most people love it. That said, not every guest eats the same way. Making sure you have a few options covered makes everyone feel included.
• Ask if dairy-free or gluten-free pizza can be part of the order. It doesn’t need to be a huge portion, but it matters for those who need it.
• Check if you can pick different crust styles. Mixing thin crust, traditional, and stuffed crust gives choices without getting complicated.
• Find out how toppings can be customized. A well-balanced order usually includes crowd favorites, a veggie option, and at least one with no toppings for picky eaters.
Doreen’s Pizzeria offers a variety of crusts, sauces, and toppings, so it’s easy to create a diverse menu for any dietary needs or preferences. Pizza caters well across ages and preferences, but only if there’s a little variety built in.
Confirm Payment, Cancellation, and Backup Plans
Event days are full of moving parts, and it helps to know how the money and order policies work upfront. None of this needs to be complicated. A quick conversation or email goes a long way.
• Ask what payment methods are accepted and if any service charges or delivery fees are added. Knowing the total cost helps you shape the rest of your event spending.
• Check what happens if the event gets canceled due to weather or a change in plans. Winter weather in Chicago, IL or Dyer, IN can always surprise you in February.
• See if the business has any backup plans. For example, if your guest count jumps at the last minute or your location changes, can they still deliver? Flexibility can make a big difference with food service.
Clarity around money and planning helps protect your event from last-minute headaches.
A Better Event Starts With the Right Questions
Pizza catering sounds simple, and it usually is, but asking the right questions up front makes all the difference. From knowing your group size to checking what utensils are included, each answer helps you avoid stress on the day of the event.
Whether you’re throwing a casual birthday, a school event, or a weekend get-together while the weather still calls for indoor comfort, planning ahead gives everyone more time to relax and enjoy. A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to keeping things easy, fun, and well-fed.
Planning an event in Chicago, IL or Dyer, IN? Pizza keeps things simple and satisfying for any gathering. We understand the importance of a menu that fits your space, your season, and your guest list. Explore the variety you can include in your order by viewing our options for pizza catering. Doreen’s Pizzeria is here to answer your questions and help you get set up, just give us a call when you’re ready to get started.