Emerald Coast Catering

menu choices with me and my fiance. They also recommended some places locally for flowers and music, which made it so much easier on us. The reception area that they put together on the beach turned out so beautiful, much more than I had hoped. We had a dinner after the wedding, and so many people spoke to me about how much they loved Chef Serafin's food and how professional the staff was. Everyone had a great time and our day was absolutely perfect.

comfort level went way up and we were able to focus on the details of planning and the comfort of our guests. They sent us a detailed proposal and assured us we could change things as our plan evolved. Boy did we change things! They never got irritated and gave us good advice, asking questions we never thought of. Thank goodness. They even told us what not to do saving us money. Our wedding and reception were beautiful with linens I loved using purple and silver with accents on the cake table and guest book table. They recommended a great baker and several florist who we interviewed and selected one who worked well with us. The food was outstanding. We had a seated dinner after the cocktail hour and the servers were prompt and attentive. I felt as if we were in a fancy restaurant. Our family and friends are still praising the food and talking about the entire evening. I would absolutely tell any bride and groom to hire Emerald Coast Catering, as they made it a pleasure to plan our important day. Thank you to Chef Serafin and his staff for all you did to make our day so special! Jen and James

nd Gary to any bride and groom who want quality.

more than happy to recommend them to any bride and groom. We both have jobs that keep us busy and were worried about having time to adequately choose vendors for our destination wedding, but Gary made it easy. Everyone is still talking about the food and how lively the reception was. Thank you!

of writing an e-mail, they had contacted me about the size of my wedding (40 guests) and what my ideas were. My husband and I picked the Economy Menu (with the BBQ pulled pork and chicken breast...we picked both entrees and 3 side dishes for an extra fee), which was basically just a buffet style meal. It was perfect! They showed up when they said they would...had everything ready to be served when scheduled...and the food was really good! My family is from Oklahoma and my husbands' family is from Germany and everyone thought the food was really delicious! Once everyone was done eating, the gentleman serving the food took everything in the house and put it in containers so we even had tons of leftovers! I didn't even notice he was there or had packed up! We also hired Emerald Coast Catering for a bartender service. The bartender made sure everyone had awesome drinks and full drinks all night long! They were the only vendors we hired that said, "anything you want, I'm here for you"! Emerald Coast Catering was BY FAR the least stressful part of my destination wedding. They really did such a great job and I am so happy we decided to go with them!....FYI, my wedding was 05/07/2014.

other couples.

accommodating, and reasonable. And the food was delicious! We had a Mexican-themed event and they were able to provide delicious cuisine and margarita machines to top it off. Our guests loved the food (we could probably have doubled the amount and it would have still be finished at lighting speed!) Emerald Coast helped to start our wedding weekend off right and we are very grateful for their attentive service. We would gladly recommend them for any size event (our's was around 100 people). I hope we have the occasion in the future to use them again!

le evening and the days to follow, everybody just kept talking about how amazing it was and how much food there was (there was enough for people to have thirds and then some leftover). We also had them make my Grandmothers potato salad recipe as a side dish, and they made it perfect (even ask my Grandmother). Not only was their food great but their service was awesome too! After having to deal with problems from the florist and bakery, Emerald Coast Catering proved that not every company has poor customer service. It had gotten pretty hectic before the ceremony, so it was very nice to be able to come to the reception and have them helping and serving. We also rented some items from them such as tables, chairs, lights, table cloths and more. The reception area looked beautiful and we couldn't have been more happier with it. Honestly, if anybody is planning a wedding in the Destin, FL area, I would recommend Emerald Coast Catering. They were very helpful and patient throughout the whole planning process. If you have a budget, they will try their best to stay within that budget and make any suggestions to help. Overall, Emerald Coast Catering did an excellent job helping make our special day even more special!

ave ever been to. I know that I am biased because it was my day, but it was exactly what I wanted and more. They wonderful people at ECC made sure that I had anything that I needed. They opened their doors to my mother and I with such warm and excited hands. They were there when I needed ideas, helped me with my vision, and listened to what I wanted down to the very last candle. The food was amazing. The grits bar was original and delicious and made my guests feel right at home in my southern, outdoor party. The station concept was wonderful and before they mentioned it as an option, it never had even occurred to me. My guest were comfortable, well-fed, and happy, which is exactly what my husband and I had wanted. The staff was incredible! They were there at my every whim, but also, to my guests, they were personable, fun, and so helpful. The food and service was right on point, the crowds flowed like there were 50 people there, not 200. Even more impressive to me, and what I am the most thankful for, is that Jan and Gary were so very supportive and loving to me and my family. I was in a unique situation. My husband was deployed during the entire wedding planning, and even though I was nervous when planning because of the situation, they made me feel comfortable and excited to be getting married. I will always thank them for that. I would recommend Emerald Coast Catering to anyone who wanted a beautiful, fun, organized wedding with AMAZING food! Thank you Jan and Gary!

the food was going to be top shelf. Glowing in the light because his staff created the most beautiful setting for our reception. It was perfect. I recommend Emerald Coast Catering to any smart bride who wants value for her money and to be a princess for day! Thank you again Chef Gary and team. Helen and Curt

eat time, and my husband and I would have a good time also. As an Event Planner, it is hard not to do things myself, but this wedding was a joy to plan, a joy to be at and my friends are still taking about the fabulous food. The wedding took place outdoors so we needed tents, tables, chairs, and linens. The wedding ceremony and the reception were in different locations on the property so we need various set-ups, the weather was very unpredictable, the wedding started in the daylight and ended very late so we needed lighting, and we were expecting over 200 guests. The staff of Emerald Coast Catering was awesome and the wedding could not have been better. I would recommend Emerald Coast Catering to anyone planning a wedding, or event on the Emerald Coast!!!!

o try 30-A Gourmet and have more delicious food! TandB

here talking and serving, it was so much fun. Earl and I both talked to everyone and enjoyed the food. The presentation was lovely. The waiters and bartenders were friendly and helpful all evening, even with one or two slightly excitable guests (Earl's side of the family!). The tables and linens were set up the morning of the reception so my mother and her friends could decorate, as were the food stations. It could not have run more smoothly, other than if we had not had rain. Even in the rain, the entire evening was PERFECT!!! Thanks to all. I highly suggest any bride who wants smooth sailing to hire Emerald Coast Catering.

decision! He listened to my vision and we worked out a menu and the other details followed. It was not stressful at all the day of the wedding. His people showed up and set up the tables and chairs and tablecloths, set up the food tables and bar and were gone. My friends were able to decorate in plenty of time for the wedding. After the ceremony his servers were there greeting my guests and directing them to the rest room and the bar. They were polite and helpful all evening. The food was unbelievable! I had the Grill Station and Celebrate the Sea Station. The selections were wonderful, my guests were so happy. Thank you to Gary and his staff. I highly recommend him!

ly encourage couples to hire him as he goes above and beyond the call of duty in the most subtle ways. You may not even realize all the details until you hear about it from your family who was there before the reception started! Thanks again Gary.

ons with creative presentation and cuilinary flair. Since we are foodies, that was a very good thing. We would recommend the firm to any bride and groom. Thank you to the staff for making our reception a wonderful experience. Emily & Walter and Family

rew made it the best party of our lives. The paella was unbelievable. A lot of our guests had never had it before and are still raving about it! It was fun seeing the chef cook it and he talked to everyone, quite a show. Thanks Chef Gary, we appreciate all you did and are glad to give you the best rating possible! Lane & Joe

so. I would tell any bride to do herself a favor and hire Chef Serafin. He totally takes care of the items you want so you can spend your time on the many other decisions required in planning a wedding. We had a wonderful wedding and reception! Thanks ECC

I would encourage any bride to hire Emerald Coast Catering. Their staff was amazing, also patient, and very attentive. They set up the reception the morning of the wedding and offered suggestions as to where everything should be placed for the best guest flow. They were right on. The reception could not have gone more smoothly. I was sad when the evening was over, but we had a goody bag of food for a midnight private picnic from the chefs! They are the best! Leslie and John

anything during my reception but to speak to every guests and enjoy myself! My parents were thrilled as well, and that is not always an easy task! Thank you Gary and staff for making our wedding the best night of my life. I highly recommend them. A Happy Bride!!!

e "same old wedding food". We selected action stations and the chefs grilled and cooked, talked to the guests about the food and were very professional. My wedding set the bar for our friends! Choose the grits station, it was my favorite. They even saved a plate of appetizers for us when we came back from having our photos taken after the ceremony. They are the best!

s staff...as the bride, I was already overwhelmed by details and it was so nice to know the food for my guests was completely taken care of. My now-husband (who never raves about food) commented several times on how much he enjoyed the sliders! I was so pleased that he enjoyed it! Also, as a finishing touch, there was a box of food from the reception boxed up and ready to go with my new husband and me on our honeymoon! Since I hadn’t had time to eat anything during the reception, I was SO grateful for this little, thoughtful touch! They even uncorked the wine, added wine glasses and put in a bit of our wedding cake too. All in all, I was very pleased with the professionalism, quality of food and service I received from Gary and his staff. I would definitely recommend them, especially for someone planning a destination wedding where you have to trust your vendors to come through for you! Thanks, Gary!

the staff that set up the morning of the wedding with the kind suggestions, the chefs and waiters that were at the wedding and the amazing bartender. Gary is the go to guy for weddings. I would definitely recommend him and his company.

ess. Learn from my mistake future brides...INDULGE!!! My family and friends had nothing but good things to say on food, service, and presentation. Much THANKS to GARY & your ECC FAMILY. XOXOs from Mr. & Mrs. Brown

llent. They even helped us save money by providing linens and tables at cost. Gary was very good with providing suggestions when prompted. We had a tasting before we had selected our caterer and he was very accommodating when other caterers weren’t, some not even returning calls. I definitely recommend Gary and the ECC staff for future events.

rentals to the lighting to the linens the atmosphere was elegant but relaxed. The food was beyond definition. We had a plated dinner served to our guests in three courses. I have never had a better meal at a five star restaurant. How the chefs and waiters did it in a tent is beyond belief. The wines Gary recommended were a perfect pairing with each course. At the end of the night I felt like Cinderella with her Prince Charming...and still feel that way. If you want to start out your marriage on the right note, select Chef Gary and his team. Thank you to all at Emerald Coast Catering, Deb & Fred

e. Emerald Coast Catering made it easy and fun!

s because I was the bride, but family and friends rave about the entire reception. Leon and I loved every minute of the celebration. I would gladly recommend them to anyone who cares about food and service. Gary was terrific leading up to the wedding. He asked questions that I didn't even think of. Emerald Coast Catering ROCKS!!!

in plenty of time to perfect all the details. We loved the food and service. We are still receiving praise from everyone. The calm relaxed atmosphere that we wanted was achieved as were all the other details. Thank you to all at Emerald Coast Catering. Chloe and Steve

to him about my budget he advised me. We ended up with the perfect meal at the right price. The food was five star. The waiters were so nice our friends and parents are still talking about them. Thank you Chef Gary, you guided us to the perfect wedding reception! Priscilla & Leo

sonable estimate upon request. He was infinitely helpful in selecting the appropriate menu style and combination along with décor. Leading up to the event Gary continually provided an up to date summary of our selected services. This was very helpful in organizing other parts or our big day. On the day of our wedding Gary’s team was set up and ready hours beforehand and provided great service with outstanding food. Our guests were full of compliments on the tasty hors devours and delectable dinner entrees. I highly recommend Emerald Coast Catering to anyone looking for delicious food combined with years of experience and friendly service.

y opportunity I get. They made everything easy, elegant and successful!

nd memorable event. I recommend them to all who care about a special day!

and the food. The tent was beautiful and the food was excellent! I especially liked the tropical fruit beurre blanc sauce on the Mahi. It was delicious! I was so impressed with all of their staff. Everyone was so nice and we felt as though our wedding was exclusive and attention to detail was attended to by all. We appreciated everyone's hard work and not one of us felt the least bit stressed so we were able to enjoy the weekend and a family vacation. The wedding was everything we envisioned and planned. We will use Gary again for a family vacation planned next year! We highly recommend Emerald Coast Catering.

how good the food was, how great the service was, and how great the Town Hall, at Rosemary Beach, was decorated. Thank you, thank you again!! I recommend Emerald Coast Catering if you want to enjoy your wedding.

ding. The arbor on the beach was to die for and I watched them put it up while I got dressed! We wouldn't change a thing about the weekend. It was an unbelievable, amazing moment of our lives & we thank Gary and his crew for their part of our special day. We are going to get remarried in Vegas by Elvis in January!!!! Keep up the amazing work!

ent...it was all TOP NOTCH! I am so glad that we chose Emerald Coast Cateirng for Casey's most special day! Below is a copy of the text message that I received from her on the day after the wedding as they traveled to their honeymoon destination. "We made it to Maui!!! It was the best wedding ever! Neither of us has stopped talking about it! It was more than the wedding of my dreams! I could never dreamed something as wonderful and fantastic as last night! Love, Casey" Thanks to Gary and his staff for helping to make my daughter's dreams come true!

sentation of our plated dinner and the assorted dessert plate was PERFECT! The team was superb! We couldn't have been happier:) Chef Gary has such a wonderful group of people to work with and should be proud:) We would recommend them to everyone!!!!

to streamline the out of town planning process. They made it so easy to plan from far away, were always quick to answer e-mails and phone calls and responded to our questions in very helpful ways. Their professionalism throughout the process and especially on the wedding day made my job as a bride easy! I would recommend Emerald Coast Catering to every couple who wants a spectacular event. (Make sure you select the butternut squash soup!)

d they truly made our wedding beautiful!!! We are so thankful we picked them and would recommend their services to anyone!!! Thanks again Gary.

fact that the food was just downright delicious!) I certainly knew nothing of area caterers since our daughter's was a destination wedding, and I did all our research online. Their website was great, but their promptness in returning calls and emails was impressive and sealed the deal. None of my questions seemed to deter them! We, along with our guests, would never hesitate to recommend Emerald Coast Catering's services.

r but it shows the company hires quality people to represent them. But let me back up to when we first contacted Emerald Coast. They responded immediately and were very professional. I had a good feeling about these folks from our very first conversation with Gary. We rented a huge house for the wedding and reception on the internet sight unseen. Gary was familiar with the place and gave us advice above and beyond the catering aspect of the wedding that took a load of worry off our shoulders. Bill, my husband, spoke with Jan on the phone and she gave great advice on how to set up for the ceremony and reception. Again guidance on the ceremony wasn't part of the catering contract and very much appreciated by a bride getting married at a place she has never seen! Unfortunately we did not have the opportunity to meet Gary and Jan in person. There was a food and wine festival that same weekend and I believe they were making what could possibly be the world's biggest pot of Paella (per their representative) which in and of itself is quite impressive! But I digress...on to the day of the wedding. We were impressed at how early they came to set up and that was a big help since we were decorating the tables. The food was very good especially the asian chicken spoon appetizers. We did a buffet with service meaning they served people at the buffet station which they executed beautifully. I already told you about the fabulous bartending so that leaves the cake service which was also outstanding! I barely noticed them breaking everything down and the next day we found the leftovers wrapped and in the fridge. So I guess this is a very long way of saying, go with Emerald Coast for your catering needs. Well done and oh yeah I almost forgot they are right on the money as far as pricing (pun intended)! You get more than what you pay for...like those asian chicken spoon appetizers...wonder if they can freeze and ship some those to us......

d I thru the process. From the ceremony site @ Eden Gardens the consultant provided options to stay within our budget. The food selections were incredible and their final choices were absolutely delicious ! Loved the table cloth decor (tangerine & turquoise) centered with a variety of glass and mosiac vases plus the tent lighting provided a soft night-light glow. We all loved the Martini bar made of lighted glass block ! When the groom requested KK donuts we pared them with colorful cupcakes on the Cupcake Tower . Talk about flexibilty ! All the staff was very attentive taking care of the tables with all smiles . I know their friends are still talking about their ECC wedding because it " set the bar high " for weddings yet to be eclipsed by their peers. I coudn't have been happier or more at ease walking into that magical evening last summer . It was a memory that will last a life time. Thank you ECC for making us all feel so special !

ne, and they were so accommodating. Then managing the tent and the baker, took so much stress off of us; since there is not enough on a bride and groom already. Our wedding, we would like to call perfect, perfect in any way imaginable. Angela and I truly enjoyed the pleasantness of their staff, the food, and helpfulness. TOP CLASS. We wish that we could have another wedding, just so we can enjoy some of the wonderful food ECC prepared.

ering, which for me was a big plus. I was working full time and, with my fiancee Todd, we were doing all of the planning ourselves from Atlanta. First, the pros: The food was good. I had a lot of people tell me that they really enjoyed the food; the menu was good and it was prepared appropriately. The service staff were very nice to me. I have one issue that I will comment about below. Having all of the arrangements go through one vendor was really huge for me. I was overwhelmed as it was, with so many decisions to make, so the fact we could get the catering, tent, furniture and linens all from one vendor helped a lot. Negative issues: whew... where to start. When we first met Gary he seemed nice enough and had a lot of experience, and he offered a lot, especially for the price. That they also had the ability to help with some design/layout to create our vision was great. Jan, Gary's wife, does the design work. Todd was the one who spoke with her more; I think I only had one conversation with her but she talked the entire time often even interrupting herself, and I had a very difficult time expressing what we wanted to do. She did offer a lot of ideas, and often seemed disappointed with the direction we wanted to go with and would repeat that we should do it a different way. Ultimately, we thought the service was to help guide us and carry out our vision, but it seemed like there was an underlying agenda... and I have no idea why. We had a pretty simple event and wanted it to be that way. That said, there was some good guidance that we got from Jan and Gary and we did often take their advice -- as you may well know planning a wedding is stressful and overwhelming and we were doing it for the first time on our own, while working full time, 6 hours away. One of the main things we had to consider was that we were having our event in a residential neighborhood, and there was a noise policy/curfew that we knew about, that the party had to officially end at 10pm. However, we made it explicitly clear to Gary, and it was in our contract since February, that none of the furniture, linens, tent, etc would be taken down until Sunday. We knew they would pack up their kitchen stuff and their staff would leave, but if we wanted to stay, I wanted to be damn sure that we could. Turns out, the night of the event, they started to take down all of the furniture at 10:30, and when I stopped them, and got on the phone with Gary, he said that it wasn't in the contract and then the staff proceeded to take it all down. Still to this day, he hasn't apologized for stopping my wedding dead in its tracks at 10:30 which was blatantly and clearly stipulated in the contract not to happen until Sunday. This was a huge disappointment for me-- in addition to the fact that at 10-10:30 on my wedding night I was standing in the house frantically looking through my wedding folder rather than being with all of my friends and family (some had traveled from Europe). Jan was really nasty to me. I came outside during the day while everything was getting set up at the house (we were staying at the house where the reception was in the back yard, so I was there all day). I came outside briefly around noon and there was some d

t the chef and his wife kept trying to sell me crap I didnt need. This was frustrating, not to mention the bill was expensive enough. Other things I was not happy about was the guests complained their food was cold and had sand in it. And I feel like I didnt get the amount of food I paid for and I cant help but feel ripped off over the whole experience. my friend just had a wedding and they catered it themselves, spent thousands less than me and had better and more food than this over priced catering company. Thinking about it hurts my head, my heart, and my pockets. I do admit, the service was excellent. The guys there were great and did everything they could to be of service. That was the highlight. Overall, this place is totally over rated and overpriced and not worth it.

lans, and they also helped to calm and reassure our families and me that everything would still be wonderful...and they were right! The menu selection was great and I was very pleased with what we chose. Everyone commented on how wonderful the food was. And the presentation of the food was very impressive as well. Job well done and much appreciated.

nd just helped make everything easy!! They are excellent for catering at a good cost!! Thanks ECC!!