The job of a good caterer is to make you feel like you're a guest at your own wedding, a wedding where everything, absolutely everything, from the food to the bar, music to the table settings, the flowers to the gift table is completely under control. If you talk to a caterer who doesn't discuss these and all other facets of your wedding, keep looking.

   What can you do to ensure against a bad, mediocre or uninterested caterer? Actually, you can do quite a lot. I suggest the following list of questions to ask your caterer before signing any contract or making any commitments. We welcome these questions and so should any other reputable caterer.

2.   Is the caterer insured? What if his staff spills gazpacho on that new white sofa? Are the caterers staff insured if they injure themselves in your home or on your property? Ask the name of the insurance company.

3.   Does the caterer work out of an approved, inspected kitchen or commissary? An approved, and certified workplace is regularly inspected and meets Board of Health standards. The water supply is also regularly tested.

4.   Is your caterer a "full service caterer?" Can he/she take care of all your party needs, from tables to tents, chairs, glassware, linens, flatware, china, steam trays, bar, paper and plastics, etc.? Can the caterer assist you with arrangements for invitations, flowers, liquor, music, sites, photographer or video crews? Which aspects of the wedding will they not assist with?

5.   How long will the caterer remain on the job? Is it in writing? What happens if you wish to extend your party longer than originally planned? Will there be an overtime charge? If so, how much?

6.   Will there be enough food? Exactly how much food will there be? How large are the portions? Make the caterer be specific. Will the chicken breast be four, six or eight ounces? Will the sirloin be prime or choice? What happens to leftovers?

7.   If you are not familiar with a caterer's work, will he give references? You should ask for three recent parties. Don't be afraid to call these people and ask how they feel about the caterer's work and attitude.

8.   Will the caterer help you create the ambiance you want and assist with other non-food-related aspects of your party?

9.   What kinds of serving pieces and china will be used? Are they in keeping with your planned food and ambiance? Ask to see samples or photographs.

10.   Who takes care of the garbage? Will plastics be recycled or just dumped?

11.   Will the caterer accommodate the special needs of particular guests (i.e., restricted diets, vegetarians, diabetics, alcohol-free or kosher guests, etc.)?

12.   Does your caterer sub-contract out certain food items, such as the wedding cake, to other caterers, chefs of companies? If so, which items and who will prepare them?

13.   Will the caterer sign a written contract, specifying any and all charges? Make sure you have a signed copy.

14.   Can you choose the food and non-food items, or does the caterer insist on making all the choices? Does the caterer seem enthusiastic about your party?