The next time you find yourself planning a large party or other event, either personal or business, consider hiring one of the many available catering services in WV to prepare all the food and look after all the other details. Hiring a caterer in West Virginia will leave you free to mingle with guests, network with clients or simply impress your boss.

West Virginia catering services used to be reserved for large parties, such as corporate events, lavish weddings or fundraisers. Today catering services in WV are ideal for many different types of parties, both large and small. When choosing from among WV caterers, you'll need to:

1. Choose a location to host your catering event in West Virginia.

2. Know where to look for food catering services in West Virginia.

3. Be prepared to ask potential caters the right questions about your catering event.

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

Select the perfect location to host West Virginia catering services

The location for your catered event is as important as the food. You need a space large enough for your guests to mill about and socialize. However, you need to avoid choosing a space that is too big, or you run the risk of it feeling like a cave. If you are hosting a business meeting, be sure to ask about the availability of AV equipment, Internet access and any other technology you may need.

I recommend: Two of the most popular places for catered events in West Virginia include the Capitol Conference Center in Charleston, West Virginia, which is ideal for larger corporate events. Wellington's of Scarlett Oaks Country Club in Poca, West Virginia offers a lovely country setting, ideal for West Virginia picnic catering or barbeque catering in WV.

Use a directory of caterers in West Virginia to find a caterer for your event

There are many online directories that contain statewide listings of West Virginia caterers. Once you have links to a caterers website you can check out their menu, price range and other services the caterer may offer. Always ask around for personal favorites from family, friends or coworkers. Anyone who has recently planned a wedding or other event can give you a candid opinion of the caterer they used.

I recommend: Your local chamber of commerce, such as the ones for the Charleston, Greenbrier and Summerville areas, is a good place to start looking for West Virginia caterers. Compare catering menus and prices, as well as any other fees West Virginia caterers may charge, like a travel fee or set-up fee.

Know what to ask potential West Virginia caterers

Arm yourself with a thorough list of questions to ask a caterer. Typical areas to ask about include the venue set up and clean up, policies regarding serving alcohol, staff-to-guest ratio, and of course, the menu. If you are planning a particularly large event, you may want to go with a caterer that also offers event planning services. This means they can help with all aspects of your event, from the room set up to table centerpieces.

I recommend: Party On and USA Weekend offer a list of questions to ask potential caterers. The questions include things such as how the caterers will handle special dietary concerns for guests to what other functions a caterer has booked on the same day.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When choosing WV catering services for your next event don't let price be the final factor. Remember, you get what you pay for in terms of the quality of service and food. One company may have higher prices, but in the end you might get more for your money than if you settled for a cheaper catering company that offers shoddy service or poorly prepared food.