If you are planning a corporate event, you will need to decide on one of the many food catering companies in Delaware for your 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. If your event is smaller, then a food-only caterer will suffice.

A caterer can be your best resource when planning an event. After all, it is their business to know how to execute the perfect party or meeting. Many caterers in Delaware provide services beyond cooking and serving food. They can help you plan the entire event from start to finish. To help you find the best catering services in Delaware, you'll need to:

1. Determine your specific Delaware catering needs for the best match with a Delaware catering service.
2. Screen potential Delaware catering services.
3. Choose a location for your event.

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

Find the best caterer Delaware food caterer to suit your needs

In order to find the best deal on catering, you need to 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 in DE. If a caterer is very inexpensive, it may be a sign of inexperience or worse-- desperation. Always ask for references and ask around your own circle of family, friends and co-workers about a caterer's reputation.

I recommend: Begin your search for caterers with Delaware on the Web, which lists caterers from all over the state. The Delaware State Chamber of Commerce is another good place to find a catering company in your area.

Know what questions to ask when choosing catering in Delaware

Have a list of questions ready when you are meeting with a potential caterer. Common questions include information about the venue set up and clean up, bars, staffing and, of course, the menu. You should feel comfortable with the caterer, since the caterer is responsible for the most important part of your event--the food. If you don't like the answers you get from a caterer, then move on the next business on your list.

I recommend: Party On and USA Weekend each provide a list of helpful questions you should ask when screening caterers. Questions range from how to handle dietary concerns to questioning the staff-to-guest ratio.

Choose a location for your catered 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 it feels like a cave. When looking for rental space for business events, be sure to ask about AV equipment, Internet access and any other technology you may need.

I recommend: Appleton Catering, Delaware, features a list of local Delaware banquet halls ideal for all size gatherings. Delaware on The Web also has a list of links to banquet halls and meeting spaces across the state.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Don't be afraid to haggle with food catering companies in Delaware for some freebies. Caterers are often willing to cut prices or throw in extra food in order to land a lucrative catering job, such a large business meeting or banquet. If you don't ask, you don't get.