Disappointing and Unprofessional Service
Truffles Catering was the caterer for our wedding, and we were disappointed not only by how certain situations were handled on the day, but also by management's response when we raised our concerns.
A significant amount of food went uneaten because some guests were unable to attend. The food was taken away without the staff asking us what we wanted done with it.
Management later explained that Truffles deliberately overproduces food and that takeaway containers are not brought the venue, unless specifically asked beforehand.
Regardless of their production practices, we knew what food we had ordered and what had gone uneaten (as confirmed by several photos our guests took at night). We should have been given the opportunity to decide what to do with it before it was removed. If Truffles follows a different process from other caterers regarding leftover food and containers, it is their responsibility to communicate that policy to clients in advance, especially if the contract does not prohibit taking home leftover food. Clients should not be expected to anticipate operational limitations that have not been communicated to them.
We fully understand and respect BC's liquor laws, and our guests were expected to abide by them. However, several guests, including family members, were repeatedly questioned whether their kids were consuming alcohol. No minor consumed alcohol and the bartender acknowledged that no minor had requested or was served alcohol. So the staff repeatedly harassing the minors and following them throughout the nigh was unwarranted.
After years of providing catering services, I would expect a professional team to know how to manage alcohol service around children consuming non-alcoholic beverages. Appropriate procedures should already be in place to distinguish alcoholic from non-alcoholic drinks and to prevent confusion, such as using different glassware.
Our disappointment was compounded by the difficulty of reaching management and the lack of a constructive response when we finally received one. There was no apology or acknowledgment of the distress these incidents caused us and our guests.
There are several caterers in Victoria capable of delivering excellent food. What distinguishes a truly good catering company, however, is not just the quality of its food, but also the professionalism, communication, and service. These are equally important components of the overall experience, particularly on an occasion as significant as a wedding. Unfortunately, while the food itself was good, Truffles fell significantly short in these other areas.
At the price point couples pay, these standards of service and professionalism should be expected. For these reasons, I would recommend considering other caterers, unless you are required to use Truffles. In that case, I would strongly encourage couples to clarify all policies in advance, particularly regarding leftover food, and ensure they fully understand their rights before the wedding day.