How about fireworks timed to coincide just as the first piece of wedding cake is delicately sliced? Peachtree & Ward Catering in Willow Grove has the contacts to make it happen.

Choosing a caterer isn't just about food. The best ones can deliver on a demand a great deal more than 150 portions of surf' n' turf. They are artists who excel at turning concepts into cakes, and empty rooms into fantasy destinations. Difficult locations and elaborate themes intrigue them. Many will gladly assume the role of overall wedding planner, booking the location, florist, rentals, photographer, music, transportation and special effects. Not sure what services are available? Just ask. Chances are you'll probably be pleasantly surprised.

The process of working with a caterer usually begins with a telephone inquiry six months to one year before the wedding date. Most caterers respond with a package of printed material that includes sample menus, photos and price information. The next step is an in-person meeting at the catering company or at the reception site, although Peachtree & Ward likes to visit prospective clients in their homes to get a sense of their personal style. Peachtree also suggest that prospective clients visit the web site (www.peachtreecatering.com) before the first meeting to get acquainted with the offerings.

Playing the field
Interviews with more than one caterer can help determine whether you are most comfortable with a traditional country-club package, or whether a custom-designed event with cutting-edge cuisine is more to your taste.

At Your Service
If you have a special request, speak up. Peachtree arranged a beer bar for a groom whose hobby was home-brewing. The groom brewed and bottled all the beers served at his wedding, including one he named for his new bride.

The night before the wedding, or several hours beforehand, the caterer's event coordinator or site manager will meet with staff to go over the party timetable and each detail of service. At this meeting, the client's expectations are restates, and reinforced.

" It's a culmination of a relationship," says Peachtree's Jon Weinrott.

" You'll realize that these four hours or five hours you're about to spend with this family and their friends started a year ago," he says. "It's been a year in the making, and it's going to coalesce in five hours. Each minute matters."