FAQ

How many people will the chocolate fountain serve and how do I decide which fountain I need?

Our various fountain sizes are suitable for small events of 20 guests as well as larger parties of 400. Multiple fountains can accommodate multiple flavors and large crowds. Our 27" fountain is perfect up to 150-250 guests. If you are planning a smaller event our 19" 0R 23" is the fountain you want. Our 34" fountain is perfect 250-350 guests. This fountain is definitely a "Show Stopper". We have many packages available to suit all of your needs. Check out our Rentals page for more details. Many of our corporate events utilize 3 or more fountains for crowds in excess of 1000!

We recommend the following:

• 20 - 40 guests= 19" mini fountain
• 40 -150 guests= 23" small fountain
• 150 -250 guests= 27" medium fountain
• 250 + guests= 34" large fountain

We also offer multiple fountains packages upon request.

How much does it cost to rent the chocolate fountain?

To view pricing options and what's included see the Fountain Rental page.

What are the dimensions of the chocolate fountain?

The chocolate fountains are a sturdy, commercial-grade piece of equipment? Constructed of stainless steel, the small fountains range from 19"-23" in height, 14.75" in diameter and weighs approximately 40 pounds. The medium fountain is 27" in height and 14.75" in diameter and weighs approximately 50 pounds before adding chocolate. The large fountain is 34" high and 18.75" wide. You can also request the small fountain be placed on risers.

What are my choices of chocolate for the chocolate fountain?

The fountain requires couverture chocolate. Our chocolates of Choice are Sephra Belgium Chocolate which has won many times over in taste tests! Couverture chocolate is available in dark, milk, white or semi-sweet. 10-20 pounds of chocolate (depending on the size of the fountain) of dark, milk or semi sweet chocolate is included in the price of the rental. We also offer any color or flavor of our white chocolate- just ask!

What is couverture chocolate?

Coverture chocolate is a high quality chocolate that contains extra cocoa butter (32-39%). The higher percentage of cocoa butter, combined with the processing, gives the chocolate a creamy mellow flavor and allows the chocolate to flow through the fountain more elegantly.

How much chocolate do I need for my event?

It depends on the size of your guest list. Our standard pricing includes 6-20 lbs of chocolate for the small, medium or larger fountains respectively. Additional chocolate may always be purchased to accommodate larger events.

Do I have to set up, tear down and clean up the chocolate fountain?

Never! A member of our Staff does all the work for you. We will arrive at your special event 60 minutes prior to the designated starting time. The fountain will then be carefully set up and the chocolate will be melted and flowing elegantly so your guests will smell the sweet aroma of chocolate when they begin to arrive. All platters and bowls will be set out in an attractive display, and the attendant will arrange the dippers on the platters and in the bowls. Dippers will be replenished as needed. During the chocolate dipping, the attendant will oversee the use of the fountain--especially watching for double dippers. Any messy drips will be managed. At the end of our service, the attendant will clean up and dismantle the fountain and will clear away any remaining dippers from the platters and bowls.

How long can I have the chocolate fountain at my event?

Our package includes use of the chocolate fountain for up to 3 hours. If you need the fountain for more than 3 hours, we will gladly accommodate your request for an additional cost of $25 per 1/2 hour.

**This does not include set up and tear down, which are done on our time

What accompaniments can be used with the fountain?

Use your imagination... because nearly anything can be dipped into the chocolate! The only types of food you should avoid are items which crumble easily such as pound cake and angel food cake, which will interfere with the smooth flow of the chocolate. Most often, our clients use strawberries, pineapple, pretzels, marshmallows, cookies (Oreos are a favorite), cream puffs, biscotti, rice crispy treats, graham crackers, bananas, and brownies.

Who provides the accompaniments?

There are several options. We can, you can, your caterer can or the hotel/facility can.

Generally, you are already working with a caterer, hotel or banquet facility to provide the majority of the food for your event. Most reception sites or caterers will prefer to provide the dipping items for you. We do not wish to interfere with this relationship, and view our service as a complement to their services. Please discuss with your facility and/or caterer that you desire to contract for a chocolate fountain through Delaware Chocolate Fountain Rentals, and work with them so they can ensure that appropriate dipping items are incorporated into your menu. You can print out our list of suggested dipping items and give it to them? If your caterer has any questions or concerns regarding our service, we'd be more than happy to speak with them on your behalf.

If you are interested in Delaware Chocolate Fountain Rentals providing the dipping goodies, we'd be more than happy to provide this service for you at an additional cost of $1.95 pp and up depending on the items selected. If we provide the dipping items, the plates and, napkins are provided by us.

Can the base of the fountain be decorated?

Yes it can. However, you cannot cover the whole thing. It is still a heating element and gets very warm. The chocolate fountain itself is the ultimate decoration for any table. The cascading chocolate along with the colorful array of fruit and other appetizers is plenty of decorations to make the table appealing.

Can the chocolate fountain be used outdoors?

YES, you can have your chocolate fountain event outdoors. You'll find that many chocolate fountain providers will refuse to use the fountain outdoors. Because of the chocolate's sweet aroma, little flying creatures are very likely to be attracted to the fountain. No worries about chocolate blowing on your guests!? No worries about bees, gnats, flies, or any other insects getting into the chocolate fountain. We now have available a wind/bug guard, crafted from clear acrylic to cover the chocolate fountain. Note, we still believe that a chocolate fountain is best operated indoors.

***The wind/bug guard is only $150 to add to your package.

What do I need to supply prepare prior to the fountain arrival?

Dippers of your choice, cut into bite-sized portions if necessary. We also can provide the dippers for you at an additional cost.

Platters and bowls, to hold your dipping items.

Table cloth and an optional table skirt. You or your caterer need to provide a table cloth, and a table skirt if you wish, for the chocolate fountain table.

Napkins and small desert plates. Caterers usually supply these. Or you can purchase large quantities at a good price at Sam's Club or any party store. Plain white works best. Allow 3-4 napkins and plates per person. May also be purchased from us.

Access to the event site at least 60 minutes prior to setup and 30 minutes after the conclusion of service for teardown and cleanup.

A level, sturdy table that will support 100 -150 pounds. A round table makes a nice presentation, but a rectangle or square table will work, too.

A 120 volt circuit within 10 feet of the desired setup area.

Please: No air conditioning vents or fans blowing on the fountain area.

Please confirm the table and electric requirements with your venue facility before the event so there is not a delay in the setup of the fountain.

What does Delaware Chocolate Fountain Rental supply?

Wooden skewers are provided. We allow 6 - 8 skewers per person.

If platters and bowls are being furnished by us, we will bring enough to accommodate the variety of dippers you choose. The serving platters and bowls provided will be silver and clear glass. We will place the dipper items on the trays and bowls and keep them refilled as needed.

You are responsible for providing table linens. Black or white looks elegant, but you may supply a different color, if desired. If needed, you are responsible for providing table skirts.

Do you require reservations and a deposit?

Yes, we require a reservation, a signed contract and a 50% deposit at the time of booking. Reservations are limited and are on a first come-first served basis. The balance of your payment is due at least 10 days prior to the scheduled date of your event. We do accept all Major Credit Cards.