If you've had a server/waitress at your party

what exactly did they do?

We are having DS' 1st bday here Saturday - about 35 adults, 9 kids. It will be in our backyard under a tent.

Thinking about whether to get a server but I've never had one so I don't know what they help with. Just want to make sure it's worth it. Food will be buffet style.

ETA: Can anyone recommend someone? Party is this Saturday afternoon.

Message edited 9/27/2010 1:25:51 PM.

Re: If you've had a server/waitress at your party

We get one for every large party we have. We also had abot 35 people at DD Baptism. They clean, put out food and keep it full, replenish appetizers, napkins, forks etc...It is totally worth it.

ETA: They basically do all the grunt work for you, that way you can enjoy the party, or else, YOU have to clean, put out food etc...

Message edited 9/27/2010 1:22:30 PM.

Re: If you've had a server/waitress at your party

Had one for DD's christening. It was SO worth it- the best $ I ever spent. She warmed the foods, prepared food, wrapped it after and CLEANED up! We didnt have to do a thing.

Re: If you've had a server/waitress at your party

heat, put out food, clean up throughout the party, clean up food, then put out dessert. Keep on top of things like ice, paper goods, etc. I think they are a life saver for big parties.

Re: If you've had a server/waitress at your party

Re: If you've had a server/waitress at your party

I used to do it.

You pretty much set up everything.

Pre party:

- Talk to hostess about the set up, what prep work is needed
- Set up tables with tableclothes
- Set up paper goods, ustensils, etc... (it helps to have someone experienced because of the flow of serving)
- Set up trash cans/garbage/bags handy
- Set up shaffer's dish
- Do all the set (bread in baskets, etc...), butter in dish in the kitchen and set up
- Work with catering delivery person if one is used.

During party:

- Empty garbage regularly
- Clean tables from empty cups and plates during the party
- Combine dishes in same bowl/shaffer's dish if same food and getting low
- Replenish all food tray (ships, etc...) from items left in kitchen (prep area)
- You can also serve people but it takes away from other tasks like cleaning.
- Make coffee and set it up

And with a buffet it's really self serve for such a small party.


After party:

- Clean up all trash (tables, etc.)
- Take trash to curb
- Clean all the food and put in containers (you should provide those aluminum one of different sizes).
- Put extra food back in fridge or ready to be given out
- Clean all tables and kitchen counters/Prep area.

For your size party, 1 person can do all of what I posted. They cannot do alcohol though. That's too much!

I used to do all of that by myself for up to 100 person party but it's a lot of work. Depends on experience!

Message edited 9/27/2010 1:51:08 PM.

Re: If you've had a server/waitress at your party

they rock! they can come early, set up, serve food, keep everything fresh, check on guests for drinks, some bartend, they continually clean up, and clean up afterwards.

Re: If you've had a server/waitress at your party

They do everything. Set up, set up the food, clean up the plates, put away leftovers, do any dishes, set up the dessert and coffee. You name it.

Re: If you've had a server/waitress at your party

Took and hung up coats, heated and served food. Walked around with hourdorves and offered drinks. Cleaned up.

No worries for me. She allowed me to enjoy my own party.

Re: If you've had a server/waitress at your party

Basically what ever you would be doing in the kitchen they would be doing on top of cleaning up after guests. I get them for every party we have. I get to enjoy it more. I actually think I am getting a server for Christmas this year too. It gets to be so crazy with so many people inside and then my mom and MIL are in the kitchen. I just hate the idea that I am taking away someone's Christmas with there family.

Re: If you've had a server/waitress at your party

Re: If you've had a server/waitress at your party

Can someone tell me how much they cost and who you used. We were thinking about hiring one as well

Thank you