Waitstaff Hire in London

Waitstaff cost £15 to £25 per hour per person, with silver-service staff at £20 to £30 per hour. Minimum shifts are typically 4 to 5 hours. For a 100-guest wedding needing 8 to 10 waiters, expect £600 to £1,250 for the evening. An agency booking fee of £30 to £80 may apply. Uniforms are usually included.

Check the agency's recruitment standards and whether staff are trained in food hygiene and service etiquette. Ask about experience with your type of event — silver service for a gala dinner is very different from buffet management at a birthday party. Read reviews on Gathrd for reliability, professionalism, and staff presentation. Confirm whether a team leader is included to coordinate on the day. Verify employer's liability insurance and ask about the agency's backup policy if a staff member cancels last-minute.

For a seated dinner: one waiter per 10 to 12 guests. For a canape and drinks reception: one per 20 to 25 guests. For a buffet: one per 25 to 30 guests to manage the table and clear plates. For very formal or high-end events: one per 8 guests. These are guidelines — discuss your specific event flow, menu complexity, and venue layout with the staffing provider for a precise recommendation.

Waitstaff are typically the front-of-house team who serve food prepared by your caterer. They should coordinate closely with the caterer on timing, service style, and dietary requirements. Some caterers include their own waitstaff in their package, so check this before booking separately. If hiring independently, introduce the waitstaff team leader to your caterer before the event so they can agree on the service plan.

Standard waitstaff uniforms are black trousers or skirt with a white shirt or blouse. Many agencies can accommodate specific dress codes — black-tie events may require waistcoats and bow ties, while casual events might call for branded polo shirts or aprons. Discuss your preference when booking. Staff should arrive clean, well-groomed, and in the agreed uniform.