If you are planning a corporate event stateside, you will need to decide on one of the many American catering companies for your business function. Depending on the size of your event, you may want to hire a caterer that provides everything from table and chairs to food and liquor. Look for American catering services that advertises event planning as part of its operation.

US catering companies can be your best resource when planning an event in the states. After all, it is their business to know how to execute the perfect party or meeting. Many United States caterers provide services beyond cooking and serving food. They can help you plan the entire event from start to finish. This is perfect if you are working outside the country.

To help you find the best US catering services, you'll need to:

1. Choose a location for your US catering event.

2. Plan out the questions you want to ask US catering companies as you screen them.

3. Shop around to find the right menu, service offering and price.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Choose a location for your US catering business event

The meeting space for your business event is as important as the food. You want enough room for people to mill about and socialize, but you don't want the space to be too big or else guests will feel out of place. When looking for rental space for business events, be sure to ask about AV equipment, Internet access and any other technology you may need. You'll also want to find out what facilities exist to support whichever US caterer you hire. Wet bars and kitchens are desirable.

I recommend: With its central location and close proximity to area lodging, McCormick Place in Chicago is one of the most popular meeting places in all of the United States. Find a huge listing of other convention halls throughout the United States at Conventions.net.

Prepare your questions for catering services in the US

Have a list of questions ready when you are meeting with a potential caterer. Common questions extend beyond simple menu planning to include information about the venue set up and clean up, bars, staffing. Ask the caterer how many corporate events the company has catered in the past. Find out if the United States catering services you are interviewing are fully licensed and insured. Ask if the caterer can help coordinate other vendors, including the DJ, florist or photographer?

I recommend: Party On and USA Weekend offer lists of questions to ask US caterers you may be considering hiring. Questions include how to handle dietary concerns as well as what is their staff to guest ratio.

Find the best US catering services to suit your needs

In order to find the best deal on catering in the US, you should shop around and compare prices and services. Check out menus and prices, but don't let cost be your final factor in choosing a catering business. If a caterer is very inexpensive, it may be a sign of inexperience or worse: desperation. Always check references, and if possible ask people whom you know have used the same catering services in the past.

I recommend: Begin your search for catering companies in the US with the US Chamber of Commerce. From there you can locate the local chamber in the town where you would like to hold your event. The local chamber should have contact information or all area caterers. Brides.com is another good resource for locating catering companies in the United States. Even if you aren't planning a wedding, it can still direct you to caterers all over the country.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you are planning a large catered event, look for US catering companies that work in conjunction with hotels. You can often get good deals using one facility for room and board.