Choosing the right caterer for your event, whether it is an intimate dinner or a large reception, can make or break you event goals and affect your guest’s experience.

There are many things to consider when selecting someone to cater your event, but before you begin, ask yourself these questions:

1.)    How many people do I need to serve?

2.)    What is the overall theme f the event?

3.)    What is the goal of the vent?

4.)    How much can I spend?

After you get an idea of what your needs are, check out the location of your event.  Many Event Sites, Halls, Museums, Conference Centers and the like have a list of preferred Caterers.  These are Catering Companies that know the venue and have usually worked there before.  If that is the case, ask the venue which they prefer or ask people you know who may have had an event there if they have any recommendations.

But what if you need to do the research because there is not a preferred list?  First ask your friends. Search the internet for Caterers in your area and look at their websites.  You can also search organizations for professionals like www.ISES.com  (International Special Event Society) or www.NACE.com  (National Association of Catering Executives).  These organizations have ethical standards that are maintained by their members.

After you narrow the list to a few Caterers, set-up appointments for taste testings.  Ask to taste the menu items you would be serving to your guests.  Ask to see the Caterer’s kitchen and make sure it is clean and the kitchen staff looks professional.

Here are some questions to present to the Catering Company during your visit.

• Does the price include taxes and service charges?

• How many staff do they propose for your event?

• Does the Caterer carry liability insurance in case something goes wrong? (You don’t want to  be held liable!)

• Ask for references!

• Ask to see a portfolio of the work they have done.

• When do you need to have your guaranteed number to them? This is what you will pay for and they will  prepare for.

• Who will be supervising the Catering staff during your event?

• Will the food décor fit your theme?

• Will they provide vegetarian selections and alternatives for other food issues?

• Do you think they are service oriented and they will go the extra mile to create a great event?

It may seem like a luxury on your budget to have your food catered for your event, but it will free you up to be the Host or Hostess and not spend your time in the kitchen. Using a Professional Event Planner who has established relationships with local caterers is one way to be assured the caterer is the best fit for your event or party.

When you find a Caterer you feel comfortable with and have confidence in their work, you will be able to have an elegant event with professional polish.

Choosing the right Caterer for your event, for your needs, and to complete your goals, will insure your event will be a success.