Frequently Asked Questions
How many staff will I need?
Staffing will depend on the style of service and the number of guests at your party. Please call or email the Party Staff location near you. An office team member will be happy to discuss the details of your event and assist you in determining the quantity of staff that's right for your event. For a quick reference, refer to our staffing calculator or our staffing guidelines under Party Tips.
Are you also a caterer? Do you provide food & drink?
The Party Staff excels by focusing only on staffing. We don't provide food, beverages or rentals, but we're glad to refer you to companies in your area that provide those services. We're strictly a corporate event and residential party staffing company.
When should my staff arrive?
Generally, we suggest your staff arrive 30 minutes to one hour prior to your guests' arrival. It is recommended that staff arrive earlier if they are expected to help with setup and/or décor, or if they will be preparing the meal.
What can your staff do? Are they experienced?
Our servers, event captains, bartenders, and cooks can execute any type of event - from elaborate weddings to intimate dinners. Whether you are working with a caterer, having your favorite restaurant deliver food, or preparing the meal yourself, having just one or an entire team of Party Staffers on hand to take care of service allows you to relax and enjoy your special event.
All of our employees have an average of one year experience in the catering/food service industry. We only send our most experienced and personable staff to residential parties..
Do you have chefs who can create and cook a menu from scratch?
Yes, in addition to our prep cooks and grill cooks, Party Staff employs executive level personal chefs that can work with you to create and cook a complete customized menu for your special event. Please inquire well in advance if you are in need of a Personal Chef.
What do your bartenders bring with them?
Our bartenders arrive with a bar kit consisting of a martini shaker/strainer, ice scoop, a pint glass, mixing spoon, wine opener, speed pourers, bar towel and a small cutting board with fruit knife. Please note: Party Staff does not provide beverages of any kind, ice, or fruit or other garnishes. Click on our bar recommendations for suggestions about bar supplies for your event.
What do cooks bring with them?
Cooks arrive with a knife kit and dressed in chef whites.
Why is it advisable to order an event captain?
On larger parties or events with an intricate time line (like a formal sit down dinner) Party Staff Event Captains have the leadership experience and problem-solving skills to ensure your event runs seamlessly.
What are your hourly rates? Do you have an hourly minimum?
Hourly rates vary depending on the job description. There is a five hour minimum on all residential events. Please contact your nearest Party Staff office for rates in your area.
How do you handle billing?
When we take your order we will ask for all of your pertinent contact information as well as a valid credit card number to confirm the order. The office holds the card number on file. It is never shared with the staffer(s) working the event. Depending on the number of staff you need, a deposit may be required.
I need a bartender tonight/tomorrow/this weekend! Do you have anyone?
With the exception a few busy nights per year, Party Staff often has the ability to accommodate 'last-minute' orders for staff so please don't hesitate to call your local Party Staff office and inquire today.
What about gratuities?
The hourly rate does not include any gratuity for our staff. Tipping is always at your discretion. If our staff meet or exceed your expectations, we suggest a gratuity between 20%-30% depending on your level of satisfaction. You can pay the staff directly in cash, or the gratuity can be added to your final credit card bill by writing it in on your invoice when it is presented to you at the end of the party.
What if my plans change? What is your cancellation policy?
The cancellation policy for our residential clients is forty-eight hours. If you cancel within 48 hours the five hour minimum will be charged to your credit card.
