We run an outside Caterers, based in Kent.We have always offered a tasting session to our Brides and Grooms.
Normally this is when we have had several chats, email back and forth, menu choices, quote in line with budget. ie when we are pretty sure that the Bride and Groom are going to book us.
Recently we had a Bride email for an indicative quote for their Wedding at a Wedding venue near us. Neither the Bride or Groom live in the county in fact they are three counties away but want a Kent Wedding. They came to visit on a Sunday lunchtime with the Grooms parents.
We felt during discussions that no one out of the four of them seemed very interested in what we had to offer. We asked for their wishes/requirements for the day but they did not have any particular preferences.
We offered complimentary canapes and a bespoke three course dinner within their budget. Since the meeting over a month ago we have not heard from them. Although they asked us to source circular tables for them and to visit the Wedding Venue on their behalf to ascertain if the two rooms were large enough for their guests. I have sent two emails with information they asked us to provide and have not had a reply.
We have now come to the conclusion they were in the Kent countryside for the day and thought they would have lunch on us!
We have never had a couple not proceed to a booking after a tasting or not answering emails when we have visited a venue on the behalf! How rude!!!