Benefit from our experience. James Events has produced over 12,000 Company Picnics and Company Parties since we started in the Event Planning business 20 years ago. We have worked with many Caterers over the years and we know what to look for in a good Caterer and we think that you should too.

Every Caterer has a different way of saying this same thing. Some describe it "better", some have "secret sauces", some have "grilling techniques" and some have "special equipment". Don't get us wrong, a good Caterer that Caters good food is very important for a successful. But lets keep it simple.

Here are 11 things You Should Know About Your Caterer.

1. Make sure you are provided with a current health department approved certificate.
   
2. Whenever possible ensure that your food is prepared fresh on site.
   
3. The caterer should have the capability including staff and equipment to efficiently accommodate the number of guests.
   
4. There is no need for a gratuity or service charge to be added on.
   
5. Make sure you get the total price from the caterer.
   
6. The caterer should have the capability to prepare the specific type of food that you are requesting.
   
7. If you pay for a 5-oz. portion make sure you get a 5-oz. portion.
   
8. When a caterer sets up a food tasting make sure to specify that the product served at your food tasting will be the same food product served at your event.
   
9. When you have special requests like Kosher or all beef hot dogs, make sure that's exactly what you get.
   
10. Cover all the details - Including uniforms, kitchen area, buffet tables, table décor, delivery, trash removal, service staff and canopies for food service.
    
11. Request references and contact them!