Understanding the various options available for your special event is a key to making it a true success. Your corporate catering service can offer a wide selection of services and products, all of which are specifically designed to make your special event the best that it can be. When you're talking to your corporate catering provider, make sure to ask specifically about the things they can do to enhance your event, impress your guests, and make you look good in the process.
While exact options can vary greatly from one corporate catering company to the next, here are some of the kinds of things you can expect them to offer for your special event:
Location ideas.
Many catering companies have agreements or contracts with event hosting locations, and may be able to offer you some suggestions about the best location to host your particular event. In some cases, a catering company may even have an exclusive contract with a venue, or may be able to provide you with a special rate based on the location of the venue. Be sure to ask your caterer if they have any particular ideas when to comes to locations.
Decorations.
While it is true that there are some corporate catering companies that work solely with food, most also offer decoration services. They can help you to communicate the purpose of your event through decoration, and to do a lot of the legwork that can be so time consuming. At the very least, the caterer is likely to be able to provide centerpieces for your table settings.
Sound, lighting and entertainment.
Your corporate event might be an internal, casual event, like a company picnic. If so, you might have a band playing at the event. On the other hand, you might want to host a dinner for potential clients in order to showcase a new product, and need some audio and visual equipment. Some catering companies work closely with other service providers, from DJs to AV equipment rental facilities, and can put you in touch with all of the various components you need to make your event a success.
Food.
This is the obvious reason you hire a corporate catering provider. Whether they prepare the food onsite or whether they bring it in, the menu and selection should be the centerpiece of what a caterer does for you. Make sure you have the opportunity to sample some of the dishes, or that you choose foods that have come highly recommended to you from former clients.
Tables, chairs and place settings.
In addition, catering services can often provide you with the necessary furniture for your event. If your event it being hosted outside, for example, you're going to need tables and chairs. Even if your event is indoors, there is a chance you may need extras. Your caterer should be able to help with these kinds of details.
Ultimately, the success of your event depends on how well you’ve planned it, along with how competent your corporate catering service proves to be.
Ann Rivers is the Owner and Chief Party Planner of Great Endings, a North Dallas catering company for over 12 years. Ann and her long-time staff specialize in corporate catering services, wedding planning and special events. Give her a call at 214-390-3989. Or fill in the short-form below, and schedule some time to visit her planning facility and kitchens. She'd be very happy to meet with you at the event venue of your choice if you prefer.
