Finding Mississippi caterers for a corporate event, no matter how big or small, can be one of the most challenging tasks of planning the event. Once you've selected a location, the second-most important task of planning an event is usually finding a caterer you can trust with a good reputation for both delicious food and quality customer service. Find caterers through word-of-mouth, business listings in the yellow pages, or go online to look for award winning caterers who will provide a great food experience for your next event.

Choose caterers in Mississippi with menu options that meet the need of your event. Before you start your search for the perfect caterer, narrow your options by setting a catering budget (or how much you're willing to pay "per head") and making a list of food and drinks you want at the event.

1. Make a list of your event details including location, number of attendees, budget and any food expectations.

2. Shop for caterers based on your event list. You'll be able to narrow your options quickly by comparing your wants to a caterer's services and price.

3. Read over all catering contracts before signing them. Find out who is responsible for cancellation costs, or if the contract isn't met.

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

Find Mississippi restaurant catering or venue-based caterers

When you need to choose a location and a caterer, kill two birds with one stone and find a banquet facility, restaurant, hall or convention center that provides catering as well. Look for Mississippi caterers who work with certain venues, and your event planning will be considerably easier.

I recommend: Check out the facilities at Kirkwood Golf. From business luncheons to large corporate gatherings, the golf course and banquet facility offers full service catering on site. Try the Hattiesburg Lake Terrace Convention Center for a large-scale fully catered event, or the Old Capital Inn in Jackson for a more intimate catered event.

Use catering companies in Mississippi for small corporate events

When you're planning a small event from a business luncheon to a wedding shower, find a caterer that specializes in serving smaller groups with personal service and customizable menus.

I recommend: Hire Le Marche for catering small events anywhere on the gulf coast. Look to First Choice Catering for small or large events. This award-winning caterer will customize an experience for your small event.

Hire food catering companies in Mississippi for large events

If you're hosting a large convention or corporate event, you'll want to make sure you have a caterer who has experience preparing, delivering and serving large crowds. Look for caterers that provide a full staff to serve or set-up food stations, and ask for references from previous event coordinators.

I recommend: A VIP Grand Event Catering serves groups of all sizes from corporate picnics to weddings. Choose Magnolia's Catering and Find Foods for a catered experience that's sure to please your guests.

Choose a Mississippi catering company with unique menu options

Plan an event with the food as the focus. Find a caterer that will bring an authentic flavor to your next event. Look for caters that prepare and serve specific cuisines like Mexican, Italian, Chinese, Thai or flavors like barbecue or Southwestern.

I recommend: Try Bubba's County Line full service barbecue catering for large or small events, or turn your next corporate event into a Chinese Buffet with full service catering through China Buffet in Brookhaven.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Read over all contracts for catering. Mississippi caterers should be responsible for delivery, set up and serving of food.
• •  A good caterer will always recommend a tasting session before you sign any contract. Don't choose a caterer based on references or awards alone, always taste the food first.
• •  If you choose a caterer from out-of-state, make sure they are licensed to caterer in Mississippi.
• •  Ask your event venue representative about catering restrictions for their venue. Some will require you to use their venue's caterer or a list of their recommended caterers, while others will allow you to bring in whatever caterer you choose. Also, some venues restrict cooking on premises, requiring that all food be brought in already cooked. Such a restriction could hamper plans you may have, for example, for a crepe or omelette bar for a brunch. Ask for all venue restrictions up front before signing any contracts.