Catering FAQs
Below is a selection of some of the most frequently asked questions about our seafood, BBQ and clambake catering services in Massachusetts.
If you still can't find an answer to your catering question, please call us at 1-800- 649-1773 - our Massachusetts catering staff will be happy to help!
- How do I secure the catering date?
- How do I select my catering menu?
- How will my food be served?
- What will Woodman's Catering provide?
- How will the food be cooked?
- How can I best prepare my clambake site?
- How do I determine a serving time?
- What happens in the event of rain?
- Is there a travel charge for coming to my site?
- How will my catering plans be finalized?
- How will I be billed for catering?
- Does Woodman's cater weddings?
- Do I have anything to worry about?
Q: How do I secure the catering date?
A: We recommend you send your contract and deposit in as soon as possible in order to secure your catering date with Woodman's of Essex, Massachusetts. Clients are required to provide a major credit card when booking an event. The credit card will be retained and may be used to pay any unpaid balance after event.
Q: How do I select my catering menu?
A: Choose one of our seven menus, or ask us to create a specialized menu to suit your taste.
Q: How will my food be served?
A: All food is served buffet style in courses. Waitstaff is available upon request.
Q: What will Woodman's Catering provide?
A: We supply buffet and condiment tables, paper products (plates, utensils, napkins), condiments, trash barrels, and trash removal. We will set up and/or supply tables and chairs for an additional charge.
Q: How will the food be cooked?
A: We cook outdoors over a propane fire. This requires a fairly flat ground surface and should be at least 10 feet away from houses or trees.
Q: How can I best prepare a clambake site in MA?
A: Check for a suitable cooking area with access to an outdoor water supply and hose hookup. This area should also be convenient for set up of our serving tables and cooking equipment. We will need a lighted area if food is served after dusk. Should you need a location for your clambake, we will be happy to send you our sites list or visit the event sites section of our website for some suggestions.
Q: How do I determine a serving time?
A: In order to serve your guests the highest quality food, it is necessary for all of your guests to be present at your designated serving time. Once the crew is on site if you choose to delay serving time for more than one-half hour, an additional charge for each crewmember will incur. Our crew will arrive at your site approximately one hour before serving time; if you request them to arrive earlier, an additional charge per crewmember will be applied to your final invoice.
Q: What happens in the event of rain?
A: If you decide to postpone due to rain please call us before 7:00 a.m. on the morning of your event at 978-768-6057. No voice mail please. Rescheduling is contingent upon Woodman's availability. We cannot guarantee your rain date choice until five days before the event.
Q: Is there a travel charge for coming to my site?
A: There is no travel charge within one-hour travel time from Woodman's (Essex, Massachusetts). A travel fee, as well as fuel charge, may be charged beyond this time. Directions from Essex, Massachuestts must be sent with your completed contract.
Q: How will my catering plans be finalized?
A: Approximately two weeks before the event we'll call for your menu updates and number of guests. If your menu choice is the Taste of Tradition, we need to know the exact number of entrèes. Tickets must be used, denoting your guest's entree choices, Woodman's will provide you with these tickets.
Q: How will I be billed for catering?
A: We require a deposit with your contract upon booking your event. The balance will be due seven business days prior to your outing. You will be charged for final guest count agreed upon, even if fewer attend.
Q: Does Woodman's cater weddings?
A: We are happy to help you plan your wedding so you can relax and enjoy your special day. Additional services are available upon request, e.g., wedding consultant, event coordinator, and waitstaff.
Q: Do I have anything to worry about?
A: We continually strive to offer the best product available and to exceed our customer's expectations. Please let us know how we are doing by completing the customer response form enclosed with your invoice.
Relax and enjoy! We have been in the Restaurant and Catering business since 1914. Let our experienced Woodman's Catering staff do the work for you.
Did this answer your question? If not, please contact us, we'll be happy to help!
Phone:
1-800-649-1773
978-768-2559
Fax: 978-768-7198
Email: catering@woodmans.com








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