Craft Services in Atlanta | Feeding Cast and Crew

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Movie magic grinds to a halt the second stomachs growl. On set, food isn’t just a perk - it’s fuel, focus, and morale wrapped into one. Done right, craft services keeps the energy high and the cameras rolling. Done wrong? Delays, grumpy talent, and a ballooning budget.

Exquisite Delites has catered to film crews in Atlanta, both big and small. Our playbook helps us satisfy everyone while staying on schedule.

What Is Craft Services?‍

Craft services (or “crafty”) is the behind-the-scenes lifeline of film and TV productions. Unlike catering, which provides main meals, craft services covers everything in between—coffee, snacks, hydration, and light bites to keep energy steady through long shoot days. Think of it as crew-morale insurance.

Why It Matters?‍

Time is money on set. Every unscheduled break chips away at the budget. By planning food strategically, you not only meet union rules but also keep everyone—from stars to stagehands—focused and fueled. A well-fed crew works faster, smiles longer, and delivers better results.

The Basics of Craft Service Done Right
1. Timing Is Everything

• Call-Time Coffee Bar: Pour-overs, cold brew, and herbal teas brewing 30 minutes before the first shot.
• Rolling Snacks: Fresh fruit, energy bites, and grab-and-go wraps refreshed every two hours.
• Hot Meal Window: A full, balanced lunch served at the six-hour mark to meet union requirements and avoid delays.
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2. Build a Balanced Menu‍

• Cast: Light proteins, low-garlic entrées, and smoothie shots for a quick lift.
• Crew: Carb-plus-protein bowls (like jerk chicken with veggie chili) for sustained energy.
• Night Shoots: Soul-warming soups, a steady caffeine station, and calming herbal teas for the drive home.

3. Dietary Needs, Zero Drama Color-coded labels:

GF (gluten-free), V (vegetarian), Ve (vegan), NF (nut-free) - make it effortless to choose. And Chef Eric’s vegan paella still impresses meat-eaters.
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4. Logistics Checklist

• Portable hand-wash stations.
• Quiet generators for hot boxes.
• A clear trash and recycling plan - because no one wants a messy set.

5. Cost-Control Hacks

• Rotate just two protein mains to slash waste.
• Partner with local bakeries for pastry drops—fresher flavor, at a fraction of the cost of single-serve packs.

Pro Tip from Chef Eric

“On set, food is more than fuel - it’s community. A hot soup at 2 a.m. or a perfectly timed smoothie shot can turn the whole vibe around.”– Chef Eric Centeno

Bottom Line

Craft services isn’t optional - it’s the heartbeat of a productive shoot. With the right timing, menu, and logistics, you’ll keep cast and crew happy, healthy, and focused on making movie magic.

Are you ready to keep your Atlanta production running smoothly? Contact info@exqdelites.com to request a custom quote.

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