What is Craft Services?

Anyone will tell you it's truly the social hub of any film shoot. At the craft table you'll find talent bumping elbows with producers and an unlimited supply of snacks sure to please any and all dietary restrictions. A quality craft table will keep any crew happy throughout the day. 

I've been the head of craft services for Vital over 2 years now and I love getting to keep the clients and crew fed and happy! Here are a few tricks and tips I've learned along the way. 

1. Always be on set early. It takes time to make the perfect breakfast craft table (with pride). Most importantly, the coffee! Have enough coffee to keep everyone caffeinated until mid-afternoon. A nice supply of sugars and chilled creamer is a must. The fancy "to-go" cups are a plus too! Breakfast bars, bananas and easy-to-grab morning snacks will be your best bet. 

2. Keep back ups of EVERYTHING. When you're on set, you never really know which snacks or drinks will be a hit that day. It could be the pre-packaged apple slices or the double chocolate chip soft bake cookies. Either way, make sure you have enough of a stash to keep your crew happy. 

3. Choose your snacks wisely. Always make sure to do a little research on who you're serving and pay attention to dietary restrictions. Do you have 17 vegans on set? Maybe don't bring the cheese and meat tray. 

4. Avoid heavy lunches. The last thing you want to do is give your crew a food coma before 2pm. Select a variety of deli sandwiches, wraps and spend the additional cost on the jumbo side salad; it's always a hit and a nice option for anyone. 

5. Kid friendly options. Keep in mind that if you have talent under the age of 5, make sure to keep a small supply of healthy snacks, juices and smaller water bottles to keep the kiddos happy. And whatever you do, don't forget the fruit snacks for bribes by late afternoon. 

6. The presentation. Make sure to always have the space you need for your clients and crew to gather and eat. If you don't have enough tables or chairs, rent them. If you don't have nice linens, buy some. It's important to always make sure the space is clean and fully stocked. Purchase serving trays to display your snack items. Even if you're serving a small group, the presentation is everything! Make it count. 

For more information on Craft Services feel free to contact me.


Shyla Bohrer
Office Manager
Vital Companies
shylab@vitalcompanies.com
o. 614.294.1306

m. 724.986.4788

Subscribe to our weekly email The Vital News