Questions & Answers About Your Catered Event
Considering a catered party? A backyard clambake right at your location is easy when you plan with us! Below is a selection of some of the most frequently asked questions about our seafood, BBQ and clambake catering services in New England.
If you still can’t find an answer to your catering question, please call us at 978-768-2559 – our catering staff will be happy to help!
How do I secure the catering date?
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.
How do I select my catering menu?
Choose one of our standard menus, or ask us to create a specialized menu to suit your taste.
How will my food be served?
All food at a catered event is served buffet style in courses. Service staff is available upon request.
What will Woodman’s Catering provide?
We supply buffet and condiment tables, paper products (plates, utensils, napkins), condiments, trash barrels, and trash removal. We can arrange tables, chairs and any other additional items you may need for an additional charge.
How will the food be cooked?
We cook outdoors using propane burners. This requires a fairly flat ground surface and should be at least 10 feet away from houses or trees. Make sure you take these guidelines into consideration if you’re planning a backyard clambake.
How can I best prepare a clambake site?
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 party, we will be happy to send you our sites list or visit the event sites section of our website for some suggestions.
How do I determine a serving time?
In order to serve your guests the highest quality food, it is helpful for all of your guests to be present at your designated serving time. Our crew will arrive at your site approximately one hour before serving time.
What happens in the event of rain?
If you decide to postpone your clambake party due to rain please call us by 11:00 AM 3 business days prior to the event 978-768-6451. No voice mail please. Rescheduling is contingent upon Woodman’s availability.
Is there a travel charge for coming to my site?
There is no travel charge within one-hour travel time from Woodman’s (Essex, Massachusetts). A travel fee may be charged if drive time is more than one hour.
How will my catering plans be finalized?
Approximately two weeks before your event our operations team will call for your menu updates, number of guests & final details. Please inform our team of any dietary restrictions or allergies.
How will I be billed for catering?
We require a deposit with your contract upon booking your event. The balance will be due ten business days prior to your outing, and cannot be accepted at the event. In some cases, additional deposits may be required.
Does Woodman’s cater weddings?
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, catering coordinator, and service staff.
Do I have anything to worry about?
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 you will receive with your invoice. We want to know that your clambake party was out of this world.
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.
