What is the difference between a dinner buffet style reception & a cocktail high stations style reception?

Cocktail High Stations
A cocktail high stations styled event creates a more casual atmosphere, where not all guests are officially seated. This type of meal allows guests to socialize throughout the event and permits them to eat as they please. Cocktail High Stations can be thought of as “mini meals” and we typically recommend having 3 different stations. Each station commonly includes a meat/entrée, a starch, and a vegetable.

Dinner Buffet
A dinner buffet generates a more formal setting, though not as formal as a served meal. For a dinner buffet, each guest is provided a seat, assigned or unassigned. This style meal is typically used when the host(s) envision everyone observing a speech, presentation, dance, etc. Dinner Buffets are normally associated with passed hors d'oeuvre prior to dinner.

How does Epting recommend plating a served dinner?

Since we are a catering company, as opposed to a restaurant, we like to create a duo plate for our served meals instead of taking each guests’ “order” through your RSVP card. Each guest enjoys two meat selections along with side options. We’ve found this method to be both simpler and more impressive for all. Vegetarian/vegan plates for served meals are available.

What’s included in your 8% administrative fee?

Our 8% administrative fee covers the time, miles, & additional resources associated with planning your event.

Can Epting supply alcohol?

Yes, Epting can provide alcohol (beer, wine, and/or liquor) for your event. The total balance of alcohol sales would be based upon consumption after your event. We have a full permit for Athens Clarke County and with our GA State license we can obtain a temporary permit virtually anywhere in the state of Georgia. Be aware that certain counties have restrictions to how quickly we can obtain a permit (Example: Fulton County 6 Weeks). That being the case, the earlier you book with us the better so that we can plan ahead and accommodate your specific needs.

Can Epting provide linens?

Yes, Epting can provide linens for your event. We have the following poly cotton linens in house for $20/each in a limited selection of sizes: white, black, ivory, light grey, navy. We are also able to order any linen material, color or pattern.

Can Epting provide a wedding cake?

Yes, we can provide a wedding cake of any size, style & flavor for your big day. We can also provide any type of other dessert (cupcakes, donuts, pies, cannoli’s, custom cookies, etc.)

Can Epting provide florals?

Yes, we can provide any type of floral and/or décor to fit your look. Our in-house floral designer, Su-Lin, would love to speak with you & transform your vision into reality! Our floral services can be done in conjunction with our catering services or without.

How does gratuity work?

Gratuity is not included in your line itemized proposal, as this is not an element we require. Our staff is always appreciative of any amount gratuity you are able & willing to provide.

What’s included in your Labor Estimate?

Our labor estimate covers the labor of your event from start to finish, i.e. from the moment equipment begins to be pulled off of our warehouse shelves to the moment all items are washed & placed back on our shelves. This estimate also includes all the labor required for the day of the event.

What other extras can Epting provide?

We can provide virtually any additional items for your event, including personalized signage, display pieces, lounge furniture, easels, and an assortment of exit items (bubble machine, sparklers, etc.). We can also provide specialty vendors such as cigar rollers, photo booth, floral/décor, etc.

What is Epting unable to provide for my event?

Unfortunately, we do not offer handling details such as guest transportation, musicians, photographers/videographers, hair/makeup artists, etc. We are, however, happy to provide recommendations for these vendors and more. We do not sign contracts for outside vendors, and we are not able to provide any personalized items, such as your guest book, etc.

Do you offer in-house meetings?

Typically, we schedule an in-house meeting once we have an initial proposal established. We understand that each of our potential clients has a budget to contend with, so we always like to make sure the price of our services aligns with your budget prior to scheduling an in-person meeting. We offer 1 in-house meeting, called a “Chef’s Table”, per event. Within this meeting, two individuals associated with your event would meet with your designated event planner and our floral director, if applicable, and would also sample a range of food items, tour our warehouse, and discuss all current details within your proposal. These “Chef’s Table” meetings are offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays each week, excluding October, December, April and May.

Who will be at my event on the day of?

On the day of your event, an Event Manager will be in charge of ensuring everything goes perfectly & as planned. Our kitchen staff and the following staff members (if applicable) will also be present on the day of: station attendants, bartenders, bussers, floral team, etc. A week prior to your event, your event planner will share your event manager’s name, number, and estimated arrival time.

Do you offer Day of Coordination for my wedding?

Yes! Our sales team offers day of coordination for your wedding and would love to discuss this service with you! This service is offered independently of Epting Events.

When can I contact my event planner?

Our sales team, including our event planners & event coordinators, are available to talk/meet with you during normal business hours – Monday through Friday from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. They can be reached via our main office line, their direct work line, or their work email.