1. Define Your Event Needs Start with the basics — what type of event are you hosting? A wedding, corporate luncheon, or holiday party? The style and size of your event determine the kind of caterer you’ll need. Note your guest count, theme, and whether you want plated service, buffet, or stations. 2. Set a Realistic Budget Decide early how much you can spend on catering. Be upfront about your budget when reaching out — a good caterer can tailor menus and service styles to ma