The Sous Chef – Catering Knowledge Base

Project & Invoice Rules

  • Invoice title MUST match project name in CRM

  • Both must be manually updated

  • Used to track client progress (meeting vs no meeting)

Menu & Service Guidelines

  • Prime Rib = ALWAYS carving station (requires dedicated staff)

  • Cost hierarchy: Prime Rib (highest), Sea Bass (next)

  • Buffet = most flexible and recommended

  • Plated = requires early planning and allergy info first

Staffing Standards

  • 50 guests:

    • Washables → 2 staff

    • Disposables → 1 staff

    • Plated → 3 staff

    • 2+ entrée options → 4 staff

Pricing:

  • $195 per staff ($185 if >5)

  • $275 bartending

  • $60 drop-off

Food Quantities & Pricing

  • 1.2 servings per guest

  • Apps: 1.5–1.75 per guest

  • App pricing: $1.25–$1.95

  • Meatballs: $1.65

  • Chicken & Waffles: $1.65

  • Plates: $16–$20 avg

Minimums:

  • Weekday: $500

  • Weekend: $1000

Operations

  • Always list staff duties on invoices

  • Check weekly menus before confirming

  • Be flexible with drop-offs

  • Cover vendors up to ~10 people

Client Strategy

  • Suggest Facebook event page for guest count

  • Prioritize allergies over preferences

  • Encourage in-person consultations

Vendors

  • Tableclothfactory.com (linens)

  • Kindred Provisions (budget rentals)

  • Alchemy (full service)

  • Epic Events (newer)

  • Mint to Mix (bartending)

  • 5 Star (rentals)

  • Precision Events (decor)

IMPORTANT:

Lauren Rouselle → be VERY clear with event details

Website References

https://thesouschef.co/about

https://thesouschef.co/menus

https://thesouschef.co/available-services

https://thesouschef.co/special-occasions-1