Frequently Asked Questions

Click here to download and print the FAQs as a PDF.
Question: What is included in my buffet?
Answer: We will set up the buffet at your location and provide the buffet tables and linens. We will also refill chafing dishes and platters as needed for up to two hours. After 2 hours we will break down and remove all the equipment and food remaining will be discarded.
Question: If I need staff to help, is that available?
Answer: Yes, we can add staff if you have one of our buffet menus. We do not provide staff on food pick ups or delivery of pans of food.

Typically, wait staff are responsible for: serving, clearing, setting tables and assisting guests during dinner service.

Waitstaff do not set up or breakdown tables and chairs, change trash cans, work with dirty dishes in the back of the house or serve alcoholic beverages.

If you contract our waitstaff, they will come in a uniform and have proper serving trays.

A "back of house" staff or Porter, will also be required to organize dirty equipment such as plates, forks, etc. Porters can also assist with changing trash cans, organizing rented plates, etc. Other than to change rubbish cans, they don't go on the service floor or move tables and chairs.

We cannot provide bartenders or cocktail servers.

Staffing Guidelines and Requirements:
Wait Staff:(1) Waitstaff per 50 guests if using china/glassware/silver
 (1) Waitstaff per 75 guests if you are using paper/plastic
Porters:(1) Porter per 75 guests if using china/glassware/silver
 (1) Porter per 200 guests if you are using paper/plastic
Set Up/Breakdown:We will quote that based on individual jobs

NOTE: If we provide waitstaff, we must also supply porters

Question: What else should I be considering when planning my party?
Answer: Depending on the location, you may need additional lighting, tenting, portable toilets, rubbish cans and liners (and removal of rubbish), staffing, entertainment and beverages. Please contact the vendors supplying the items above to make sure the size, space, quantity, etc. is adequate.
Question: Can you accommodate last minute requests?
Answer: Depending on staff scheduling and availability of products or rental items, we are happy to provide our services. There may be additional charges due to staff overtime or rush delivery of products. This will be clearly indicated when a contract is created.
Question: If I rent equipment, how long do I get it for?
Answer: Rental rates are for a 24 hour period.
Question: If I rent equipment and something gets broken or lost, what happens.
Answer: Your rental agreement states that you will be responsible for full replacement costs, including shipping for any damaged or lost equipment. Replacement costs are included on the rental form. It’s the client's responsibility to inquire about any replacement costs for items not listed. Remember too that some things (especially tables and chairs) will be damaged if they are exposed to rain. Clients are responsible for making sure that all equipment is stored before, during and after use in a dry area away from rain.
Question: Where do you work from when setting up the buffet?
Answer: We need ample space under cover with lights. If you are renting china and glassware, then a larger space is required to manage the dirty dishes. Generally, a space equal to a one car garage is required within close proximity to the service area. It should be a covered area and well lit.
Question: I have a wedding planner can you meet with us?
Answer: Grass Shack Parties and Rentals is not a full service catering company and therefore, a consultation fee of 100.00 per hour would apply.
Question: I am planning on getting food delivered. What is included?
Answer: The food will be delivered in disposable pans or platters. You should plan a way to keep the food at a safe temperature until serving. We can rent chafing dishes, decorative platters, tongs, serving spoons, etc. if they are needed.
Question: I am renting china/glassware/silver from you - how much should I expect to need?
Answer: If you are setting the plates, flatware and glassware on the tables, then you probably only need about 10% extra. If the items are placed on the buffet line, we recommend about 30% extra to accommodate guests who go back for more food or drink.
Question: I am doing all the set up on my own. What else should I be considering?
Answer: Allow space in your tent or lawn for the buffet line which is generally four 6' tables or 24' long. Allow space on both sides for guests to go through the line and for people to stand in line. The buffet should be located in close proximity to the back of the house work area.
Question: I'm planning to bring my own wedding cake. Is that okay?
Answer: Yes. Please make sure to rent or provide a cake plate, fork, napkin, cake knife and a designated person to cut the cake. Our staff (if contracted) is happy to serve the cake, but we don't cut, move, transport or handle wedding cakes. Don't forget to plan on removing the leftover cake at the end of the night.
Question: How do I handle damp linens or chair covers at the end of the event?
Answer: Chair covers that are exposed to dampness, such as rain, will need to be removed from the foam, washed and put back on. This would result in labor charges. It's best to avoid any dampness or stains on the cushions to avoid extra costs. Cushions should be bagged in clear trash bags at the end of the event. Tablecloths or linens rented should be returned used in clear trash bags. Again, if damp, please don't close the bag as mildew could form resulting in additional charges to spot treat or worse, replacement costs.
Question: I am renting plates and silverware, do I have to wash it before returning?
Answer: No, rental prices include washing all items at our warehouse. However, all items should be void of food particles. Please return in the same containers they went out in.
Question: If I rent equipment, how long do I get it for?
Answer: Rental rates are for a 24 hour period.
Question: If I rent equipment and something gets broken or lost, what happens?
Answer: Your rental agreement states that you will be responsible for full replacement costs, including shipping for any damaged or lost equipment. Replacement costs are included on the rental form. It’s the client's responsibility to inquire about any replacement costs for items not listed. Remember too that some things (especially tables and chairs) will be damaged if they are exposed to rain. Clients are responsible for making sure that all equipment is stored before, during and after use in a dry area away from rain.
Question: I am renting china/glassware/silver from you - how much should I expect to need?
Answer: If you are setting the plates, flatware, and glassware on the tables, then you probably only need about 10% extra. If the items are placed on the buffet line, we recommend about 30% extra to accommodate guests who go back for more food or drink.
Question: How do I handle damp linens or chair covers at the end of the event?
Answer: Chair covers that are exposed to dampness, such as rain, will need to be removed from the foam, washed and put back on. This would result in labor charges. It's best to avoid any dampness or stains on the cushions to avoid extra costs. Cushions should be bagged in clear trash bags at the end of the event. Tablecloths or linens rented should be returned used in clear trash bags. Again, if damp, please don't close the bag as mildew could form resulting in additional charges to spot treat or worse, replacement costs.
Question: I am renting plates and silverware - do I have to wash it before returning?
Answer: No, rental prices include washing all items at our warehouse. However, all items should be void of food particles. Please return in the same containers they went out in.
Click here to download and print the FAQs as a PDF.