Frequently Asked Questions at Townsend Catering in Cooperstown NY

Frequently Asked Questions

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How much is my event going to cost ?
Can you tell me about your banquet facility, Templeton Hall ?
Is there anyone you can recommend to handle all the details of my party?
Can I provide my own liquor and can my friends bartend?
Can you provide references ?
How do I secure a date with you and when is a deposit due ?



How much is my event going to cost ?

This is probably the most common question we hear! The answer is simple: It depends on what you're planning. A wedding reception under a tent can be costly since everything needs to be rented, and the final product must be elegant and memorable. On the other hand, a backyard barbecue might be considerably less expensive if all you need are tables, chairs and paper plates.

At our first meeting, we will review your plans and give you an estimated range of cost. It is best if your first step in planning the party is to determine the budget. We can provide services for almost any budget and can guide you through the steps of determining your needs and costs. Our banquet facility, Templeton Hall, is available for rental year round. Special rates are available for non-profit organizations and community groups.

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Can you tell me about your banquet facility, Templeton Hall ?

Templeton Hall , on Pioneer Street in Cooperstown, is an historic building, completely renovated for your exclusive use with all the amenities: handicapped access; intimate setting for parties of 120 or less; full bar service; all serviceware included such as tables, chairs, plates, cutlery & glassware; balcony stage for live or recorded music; full service catering provided by L. M. Townsend Catering.

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Is there anyone you can recommend to handle all the details of my party?

Absolutely! For off-premise functions, we provide you a list of all the items you'll need to rent for your event along with a list of suggested providers at no cost. If you would like to have our event planner assist with additional details, this service is available at an hourly rate. Our planners will present you with estimates from rental companies and can arrange for every detail from flowers to music, hotel reservations, coordination of RSVPs...even arrange for the Cooperstown Trolley or a horse drawn carriage to transport your guests.

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Can I provide my own liquor and can my friends bartend?

At Templeton Hall, we must provide all bar services. Occasionally, the host may wish to provide wine that has been given as a gift for the event, and we do charge a corkage fee. For off-premise events, you may provide your own bar service but be sure to check with the site manager if your party is at a public place or museum as they may restrict beverage service to licensed and insured providers only. For parties at private residences, we are happy to refer a bartender with whom you must make the arrangements and pay directly.

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Can you provide references?

Not a problem. Just give us a call and we can provide you with a list of recent and long-time clients. We also have a scrapbook of "Thank you's" that you are free to review upon visiting us at Templeton Hall.

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How do I secure a date with you and when is a deposit due?

The first step is to submit answers to our on-line questionnaire, found under " Planning Your Event " on our Townsend Catering website, or call us to find out if we are available on the date you have in mind. Once we have determined that you would like to employ our services, we submit for your review a preliminary contract. If the details meet with your satisfaction, a non-refundable deposit of $500 is due to hold the date. For smaller parties, deposits are not necessary. Check our Townsend Catering website under " General Information" for more information on contracts and deposits.


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