When I finalise the booking details with the client a week or two before the gig, I cover things like setup, start & stop times. breaks(s), special starter dance, etc. Cash on the night, or a BACS payment 5 days in advance if preferred. And the food and drink situation.

I always say that we never assume food & drink is provided - and that we're happy to bring our own if needed. Most of our playing is for weddings and similar functions, so we often get there after a meal has been served and eaten. There's often mid-evening snacks - hot dogs or nibbles, for example - which I tend to give a miss, but at least we know it's there.

Be prepared!