15 Corporate Event Catering Tips for a Successful Business Gathering

So much goes into planning a memorable occasion that achieves your business goals. While corporate event types may differ, the need for exceptional corporate event catering remains constant. Whether your gathering targets life-long customers, new consumers, valued colleagues, or potential business partners, it’s essential to keep guests engaged with thoughtful bites and sips. It’s also ripe with creative branding opportunities.

PartySlate reached out to some of the top corporate event caterers in the country for an inside look into this must-have event component. These industry experts reveal how to leverage catering at your next business gathering. They share need-to-know tips on how to find the right caterer and curate an unforgettable celebration centered around your brand.

Events bring people together, strengthen bonds, and provide tailored experiences for company milestones. They also show appreciation for employees and encourage networking across industries to build a vibrant community. -- Jodi Fyfe, Owner of Paramount Events

Capitalize on these 15 event catering tips that promise to take your event to the next level. Best of all, we’ve made it easy to reach out to our contributing caterers with just the click of a button — so you can start planning your business event today.

But First, See How Event Catering Elevated This Rooftop Celebration

1. Know Your Business Goals

photographer: Lorren & Braman | posted by & caterer: The Major Food Events Space

Corporate events are an extension of your company’s marketing strategy. As such, every corporate event should have a clearly defined, measurable goal behind it — be it increasing brand awareness or increasing annual revenue.

Many positive outcomes come from company events. These moments can be harnessed to boost brand representation, meet business goals, shape culture, and reinforce values. -- Jodi Fyfe, Owner of Paramount Events

Many elements go into achieving this goal — including the menu. For Viola’s Kitchen Catering & Event Planning, “The objective is to consistently grasp the event’s expectations and purpose, whether they involve education, integration, sales, or organizational aspects.” Owner Viola Benarek, goes on to say, “Aligning with these goals enables us to make appropriate choices regarding food and beverage selections, timing, dietary restrictions, and any other necessary accommodations.”

Rob Pausmith, Founder of Pausmith Group, shares some examples of how these choices are made. He tells us, “If you’re hosting a high-end charity donor event, our menu will reflect luxury food and beverage pairings. If you’re planning a fun employee-appreciation holiday party, our menu will reflect unique and whimsical offerings that will delight each guest.”

2. Showcase Your Brand

photographer: Scott Clark Photo | posted by: Twenty Three Layers (23 Layers) | caterer: Creative Edge Parties

Whether you’re looking to attract new consumers or retain employee talent, you want people to have a positive experience with your brand. Talented marketing departments use storytelling to elevate brand awareness — and caterers do, too.

Pausmith of Pausmith Group, shares, “We believe that food tells a story. What better conduit to bring conversation and connection to a group of people than food and beverage?” For Jodi Fyfe, Owner, Paramount Events, that story is told through personalization, with a focus on “seamlessly integrating branding elements into the event structure.”

Each customer interaction with your brand influences their overall experience. -- Marc Weber, CEO & Founder, ONTHEMARC Events

Abbie Prince, Account Executive at Abigail Kirsch Catering, says, “Be creative when it comes to ‘special touches and details’ throughout the event. Whether it’s branded napkins at the bar, a to-go logo cookie, chocolate disc on the dessert that has the company name, a themed specialty cocktail, a fun interactive food station, or brand colors through linen and flowers, etc.”

Check out some of our favorite ways to introduce guests to your brand — or keep them excited about your product.

Creative Menus

photographer: photographer: Amarachi Ikeji Photography | posted by: Theater on the Lake | caterer: Entertaining Company

Caroline Stoeckel, Director of Sales and Marketing at M Culinary Concepts tells us, “Tailored menus can reinforce specific messages and themes related to your products, services, or corporate culture. Some caterers can even incorporate subtle brand elements, from logo-inspired desserts to signature dishes reflecting your company’s origins.”

Juan Hernandez, Owner of Delivering Experiences, tells us that “caterers can also design food items using their corporate colors or shapes in the food that will be served to reflect their brand identity. ” Marissa D’Angelo, Marketing Director at Gourmet Caterers, adds, “Branding can even be printed directly onto house-made pastries and edible cocktail toppers!” See how PartySlate’s celestial-themed cocktail party took branding to new heights with creative menus and on-theme details.

Packaging & Signage

photographer: photographer: Daniel Serrette | posted by & caterer: Delivering Experiences

D’Angelo of Gourmet Caterers tells us, “We love finding ways to include company logos and colors throughout food packaging and station signage.” Hernandez of Delivering Experiences also recommends using coffee cups and food boxes as a fun branding moment, like these monogramed personal-size pizza boxes that perfectly captures the MWL aesthetic for Bridal Fashion Week.

Stylish Service

photographer: Shauna and Jordon | posted by: The Sacred Space Miami | caterers: Le Basque, Thierry Isambert Culinary and Event Design & Constellation Culinary Group 

Corporate events — and events in general — are all about bringing people together. Whether you opt for a sit-down dinner or passed apps, you’ll find that devoting part of your event schedule to a culinary experience leads to new networking opportunities. It also leads to more branding possibilities. Marc Weber, CEO & Founder of ONTHEMARC Events, tells us that “branding trays and uniforms with a theme or logo is highly effective,” and we couldn’t agree more. See how PartySlate’s “Little Prince”-themed networking event immersed guests into this whimsical world with on-theme, perfectly branded catering.

*Make sure to check out 27 Event Branding Ideas to Expand Your Reach for even more creative branding inspiration.

3. Align Your Menu With Your Values

Your company’s values are an extension of your brand. Morever, the data collected by CivicScience, a consumer analytics platform, suggests that over 50% of consumers would switch to brand that shared their values.

Make sure your customers, business associates, and employees have the chance to connect with your mission statement and learn more about your company’s values by hiring a compatible catering team. As Weber of ONTHEMARC Events tells us, “The food served at corporate events directly reflects the ethos and brand of the company hosting them.” For example, Prince of Abigail Kirsch Catering tells us, “Conservation and energy companies probably don’t want to go heavy on the red meat and will be more vegetarian focused.”

The first step to ensuring menu diversity is selecting a caterer that has a food philosophy aligned with the company’s values. -- Danielle Shapiro, Regional Director of Sales at Abigail Kirsch Catering

Fyfe of Paramount Events tells us to start with “selecting a caterer that aligns with your company values.” She adds, “Companies also have the opportunity to highlight and build credibility around their values by emphasizing their commitment to sustainability and diversity.” Stoeckel of M Culinary Concepts agrees. “Collaborate with your caterer to craft a memorable culinary journey that aligns perfectly with your company’s values and image. From the exquisite menu selections to the flawless presentation and impeccable service, every detail will exude your brand’s unique personality.”

If hiring a minority-owned business is important to you, head to our Corporate Caterers Near Me directory page and filter for businesses owned by diverse individuals. From there, you can click into their PartySlate profile to see real examples of their work and learn more about their business.

*For more inspiration on how catering can reflect your company values, check out the video above, and see how M Culinary Catering routinely partners with Waste Not Food Rescue to donate any leftover catering to people in need.

4. Make your Menu Guest-Centric

photographer: Ricky Rodriguez Photography | posted by: SoWa Power Station | caterer: The Catered Affair

Despite the plethora of US companies (according to Forbes Adviser, there are over 33 million businesses in the United States), corporate event hosts often lack helpful resources for planning their business gatherings. As such, it may be tempting to draw ideas from the wedding industry. That, however, is a mistake — especially when it comes to event catering.

Pausmith of Pausmith Group tells us, “A wedding menu usually reflects the tastes and preferences of the couple, while a corporate menu reflects the guests that will be in attendance. Both menus will tell a different story: One is about the two people you’ve gathered to celebrate, while the other is about celebrating the people you’ve invited.”

Erica Fredericks, Senior Account Executive of Abigail Kirsch Catering, agrees. “In today’s economic climate, perception and guest experience is a driving force for creating menus.”

As D’Angelo of Gourmet Caterers eloquently reminds us, “There’s an old saying, ‘The way to a person’s heart is through their stomach.’ This is absolutely true, even for a business. If you want to create a memorable moment for your client, entertain them. Exceptional catering and hospitality experiences can be included anywhere, from multi-day executive meetings in boardrooms, to global expos with thousands of clientele in attendance.”

Look for menus that are crowd pleasers — while keeping in mind allergies, food restrictions, and the culture of the attendees - Juan Hernandez, Owner of Delivering Experiences

When you meet with your caterer, come prepared with a general gist of your guests’ culinary preferences. Danielle Shapiro, Regional Director of Sales at Abigail Kirsch Catering, says, “We encourage our clients to survey their audience to better understand any specific needs.” Bednarek of Viola’s Kitchen Catering & Event Planning also emphasizes the importance of “catering to the diverse tastes and preferences of attendees from around the globe.”

Of course, the breadth of choices is only one part of the equation. Shapiro of Abigail Kirsch Catering reminds us that “Offering a range of choices is not enough. The upmost care must be taken in mindfulness of ingredients, food preparation, and transparent food labeling.”

5. Keep Guests Energized

photos courtesy of & posted by caterer: Paramount Events

We’ve all been in a meeting when our stomachs start to growl and our mind starts to wander. Keep engagement high (and hanger at a minimum) with an assortment of bites and sips offered throughout your event. Bednarek of Viola’s Kitchen Catering & Event Planning says, “Certain corporate meetings require curated breakfasts, lunches, and refreshments that need to be designed and prepared to energize participants and enhance the effectiveness of the meetings.” Of course, even corporate holiday parties and other less-educational events can benefit from culinary pick-me-ups.

See below how event agency Twenty Three Layers (23 Layers) leveraged their catering program to keep guests energized and engaged. The best part? All of these catering moments double as perfect branding opportunities.

6. Offer Convenience & Efficiency for Easy Networking

photos courtesy of & posted by caterer: Abigail Kirsch Catering

Every aspect of your corporate event should facilitate guest connection. As Stoeckel of M Culinary Concepts says, “Corporate events prioritize sophistication and seamless execution, ensuring guests can network and discuss business with ease.”

Different corporate events serve different purposes, so it’s important to remember your unique business goals when finalizing your menu. Fyfe of Paramount Events says, “Through collaborations, we adapt to various event styles, offering options from plated dinners to cocktail-style events, all aligned with the client’s agenda and timeline. This may include networking sessions, panels, presentations, awards ceremonies, and creating a cohesive event plan that integrates all aspects of exceptional hospitality.”

Viola’s Kitchen suggests offering butler-style appetizers bursting with flavor and visual appeal, complemented by self-serve food stations for the convenience of the guest.  - Violeta Bednarek, Owner of Viola's Kitchen Catering & Event Planning

For all-day events or celebrations that don’t include a seated dinner, you may want to consider fare that facilitates flexibility. Weber of ONTHEMARC Events says, “Practically speaking, corporate events often feature streamlined menus with easy-to-eat options like small bites, stations, and to-go items that emphasize convenience and efficiency for networking and business interactions.”

Of course, practical doesn’t have to mean boring. Stoeckel reminds us that fare should be “presented in a way that facilitates conversation without sacrificing appetizing appeal. Think beautifully presented finger foods in a buffet line or plated entrees that are easy to navigate during a busy schedule.

7. Focus on Fresh Fare

photographer: Spoon Photo and Design | photo courtesy of: Loft Lucia | caterer: Viola’s Kitchen Catering & Event Planning

Presentation is always important, but there is no substitute for quality ingredients. Bednarek of Viola’s Kitchen Catering & Event Planning tells us, “We believe in a simplicity of preparation that, when combined with unprocessed ingredients, provides healthy and nutritious meals to be remembered by all.” We couldn’t agree more.

One of our favorite corporate event trends includes a fresh take on traditional crudité. You can also click below to see how some of our favorite passed apps are going green — and getting guests talking.

8. Give Your Menu a Theme

photographer: Shaimma Photography | photo posted by caterer: Hedrick’s Catering & Events

Having catered an innumerable number of corporate events over the years, Fyfe of Paramount Events can safely say that “corporate events will often have thematic elements.” Party themes are a great way to tie the disparate elements of your celebration together — all while immersing guests into a celebratory experience.

You might assume that catering would be exempt from a theme’s influence. After all, food is food. However, experienced caterers know how to reflect a party motif through everything from sips to bites. Hernandez of Delivering Experiences also reminds us that caterers can use “napkins or other food service items like our mini pizza or slider boxes to reflect a theme.”

Not sure how to find the prefect event theme to keep guests engaged? PartySlate has you covered. Search our 15 Best Corporate Party Themes that prove work and fun can easily go hand-in-hand.

9. Create an Inclusive Menu

photographer: Stefen Ross Photography | photo posted by caterer: Pausmith Group

As the workforce becomes more diverse, so must our catering offerings. Bednarek of Viola’s Kitchen Catering & Event Planning invites businesses to rethink traditional event menus. “In the modern culinary world,” she says, “catering to individual tastes, preferences, and dietary restrictions presents both a challenge and an exhilarating opportunity.”

We place a strong emphasis on accommodating a wide range of dietary preferences and restrictions from the initial menu planning to the final product.  -Marc Weber, CEO & Founder of ONTHEMARC Events

Business leaders should capitalize on this new outlook by having an open and honest conversation with their event caterer. Hernandez of Delivering Experiences says, “Companies should schedule a menu consultation session with the caterer to curate a menu that suits all the guests.” Stoeckel of M Culinary Concepts adds, “By discussing your guests’ needs in advance, we can customize the menu to be inclusive and delectable for all.”

Communication with your caterer is absolutely the key -Rob Pausmith, Founder of Pausmith Group

So what talking points should you make sure to cover during this menu consultation? Fyfe of Paramount Events advises guests to share essential demographic information. That way, in addition to creating an inclusive menu, the caterer can “incorporate additional elements, such as menu indicators or seat assignments, to ensure everyone is well cared for.”

Inclusive menus accommodate for both diverse dietary preferences and diverse dietary needs. Make sure your corporate event menu caters to the following:

Wide Ranging Palettes

photographer: Genevieve de Manio Photography | caterer: Deborah Miller Catering & Events

Offer a variety of food choices to make sure there is something for everyone. Hernandez of Delivering Experiences says, “We usually recommend having options of beef, chicken, seafood, a few vegan options, and a couple of sweet options so that the client will cover all the guests’ palates.” This is especially important when doing passed apps and guests don’t have the option to preselect their meal choice.

Allergy Considerations

photos courtesy of caterer: Abigail Kirsch Catering

If there’s one section of this guide that you read closely, make sure it’s this one. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, about 20 million people had food allergies in the U.S in 2021. That number has only increased in the subsequent years. Keeping your guests safe should be your number-one priority. Hernandez of Delivering Experiences says, “We label all food items using napkins and menu cards for the food stations.”

Dietary Restrictions

photographer: Sara Wight Photography | caterer: Great Performances

Remember, dietary restrictions go beyond just allergies. They can also include lifestyle choices. Prince of Abigail Kirsch Catering informs us, “Guests who maintain gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, vegetarian diets are more popularly seen at events these days than in the past.”

Pausmith of Pausmith Group says, “In our initial conversations with the client, we discuss how big of a factor dietary restrictions are and how heavily they need to be accommodated (for example, should the entire menu be vegan, or should we ensure that there are at least 3 items that are vegan without revolving the entire menu around that?). This helps us create a menu from the start that’s built around your needs, rather than creating a menu and then making swaps and adjustments after the fact to accommodate dietary restrictions.”

“We love food station style menus for this reason,” D’Angelo of Gourmet Caterers says. “With visibly labeled buffet options, guests are able to choose exactly what they want to eat. Separating proteins from starch and vegetable offerings helps with this also. Leaving various condiment options to the side is also a great tip to ensure all guests can customize their dishes according to their own dietary needs or preferences.”

Cultural Considerations

photos courtesy of caterer: Gaurav Anand

Lastly, remember to be mindful of any cultural dietary restrictions. Fredericks of Abigail Kirsch Catering tells clients, “Work with a caterer who understands how holidays and certain cultural times can impact a menu. For example, tweak a menu during Passover to include matzah for a bread pass or have extra kosher meals on hand. Know when the sun sets during Ramadan, and how can we shift service.”

10. Satiate Guests With Custom Sips

photographer: Jonathan Bishop | photo posted by caterer: Mannya Bar Services

No event menu is complete without a dedicated beverage package. Stoeckel of M Culinary Concepts says, “Beverage preferences are a key element. Do you envision a curated selection of fine wines and handcrafted cocktails, or perhaps a range of premium non-alcoholic options? With the right information, the partnership between your company and the corporate caterer will be more successful.”

If you plan on serving alcoholic beverages, make sure you include non-alcoholic options for those who choose not to imbibe. According to many of the top caterers in the country, dedicated mocktail bars are trending this year. Michael Stavros, Partner and VP of Business Development at M Culinary Concepts tells us, “What started as ‘Dry January’ a few years ago is evolving into year-round reductions in alcohol consumption, especially among Millennial and Gen Z consumers.”

Another beverage-focused trend taking over the corporate world is the idea of “Surprise and Delight Sips.” This could include having to “knock” on a mini window for a glass of tequila or ring a bell for a flute of Champagne.

Lastly, make sure to offer caffeine-free options with any coffee service. In addition to decaf coffee, we recommend providing a selection herbal teas or smoothies for a healthy pick-me-up.

11. Consider the Scope of the Event & Other Logistics

photographer: Anna & Mateo | photo posted by venue & caterer: La Vie

So much goes into planning a successful event. Knowing the scope of your event in advance will help both your corporate event planner and caterer execute a seamless celebration.

Venue, event date, timing of event, guest count, and budget are all important aspects that go hand in hand with event planning.  - Marissa D'Angelo, Marketing Director at Gourmet Caterers

This has never been more true than now. Weber of ONTHEMARC Events says, “As lead times for parties shorten, we’re seeing more last-minute inquiries that require quick turnarounds. Having all the necessary information from the initial conversation streamlines the entire process, making it fast and efficient.”

Come prepared to the initial consultation with your caterer by knowing the following logistical points. We recommend writing the information down on a sheet of paper in addition to any email communication, so you can easily reference the material during the conversation.

Guest Count

photographer: Namini Photo | caterer: Viola’s Kitchen Catering & Event Planning

Your guest count will determine everything from your venue choice to your catering needs. Hernandez of Delivering Experiences reminds us, “Guest counts at corporate events tend to be higher than weddings or other social celebrations that are more intimate.”

Remember, your guest count will not only determine how much food needs to be served, but it will also affect staffing numbers, dinnerware rental amounts, and serving flow.

Location

photographer: John Kreis Photography | photo posted by: nxtevent | caterer: Gourmet Caterers

Don’t let the location details fall off your radar. According to Pausmith of Pausmith Group, “Knowing the location of the event helps us understand details like travel time for our team, staffing needs, and more.”

Your venue choice is just as important. Each venue has its own vendor requirements, food regulations, loading dock rules, and rental availability. The more details you can share with your caterer in advance, the more your caterer will be able to curate a strategic catering plan for your corporate event.

Projected Budget

photographer: Terri Baskin Photography | caterers: Sterling Caviar & Oysters XO

Knowing your budget in advance will save you and your vendors both time and money. Pausmith of Pausmith Group says, “We need to know your projected budget. We want to work with you in the scope of your budget, so having this information up front allows us to set parameters in the beginning to allow for a successful collaboration.”

Prince of Abigail Kirsch Catering agrees. “Communicating the scope of the event from beginning to end will help the caterer when discussing budget and overall pricing. It’s then the caterer’s job and responsibility to accurately quote the business on what a realistic budget would look like, based on the guest count, venue, length of event, and menu.”

Corporate Event Planner

photographer: Afrik Armando | caterer: CxRA

At PartySlate, we always say, a great event starts with a great event planner. In addition to planning and producing the event, your planner will be the main touch point for all of your vendor communication.

As Pausmith of Pausmith Group says, “We need to know who your planner/coordinator/point of contact is for coordinating details. It’s crucial for our team to have one key person to discuss ideas, deadlines, and to-do’s with — both to streamline processes for our sake and for the client.”

PartySlate makes it easy to find a talented local or destination corporate event planner. Click into our curated vendor directory and use the filters to narrow your search by location, services, and more. Look for the “featured tags” to learn more about PartySlate’s top picks, and make sure to click into a planner’s PartySlate profile to see real examples of their work. From there, you can send and inquiry through the directory or their profile page.

12. Know Your Event Timeline

photographer: Lucas Rossi Photography | photo posted by caterer: Pausmith Group

Even at the early stages, it’s crucial to have a general idea of your timeline (your corporate event planner will be able to help with this). Pausmith of Pausmith group shares, “Having a timeline is crucial for a caterer to understand the flow of the event.”

Fyfe of Paramount Events gets down to the specifics. “A timeline outlining core event elements — such as presentations, awards ceremonies, or demonstrations — aids us in effectively planning service times. Providing an estimated guest count helps determine food and staffing needs, enabling us to accommodate dietary preferences, cultural considerations, and tastes.”

13. Prioritize Rentals

photographer: Abby Jiu Photography | rentals: Found Rental Co. & Casa De Perrin

When it comes to creating a memorable culinary experience for your corporate event, food is only part of the equation. A meal can’t occur without the proper serveware or tablescape items needed for food presentation and consumption.

Stoeckel of M Culinary Concepts shares, “Understanding your preferred service style allows a seamless experience. Are you envisioning an elegant plated dinner or a sophisticated grazing table? Either way, be sure to mention any rental needs — from exquisite china and linen to stylish tables and chairs — so your caterer can create a visually stunning ambiance that reflects your brand.”

Many all-inclusive venues like hotels provide their own serveware items, so make sure to check in with your venue coordinator before outsourcing any rental needs. There’s also a chance your caterer may have their own inventory. However, if you do need to find an experienced corporate rental company, you can head to PartySlate’s curated vendor directory. Look to the “featured” tags for vetted business that PartySlate routinely recommends.

14. Consider Any Venue Restrictions

photographer: Fred Marcus Studio | photo posted by: The Altman Building | caterers: Thomas Preti Events to Savor, Dolce & Gelato Catering Inc.& The Cup Bearer

Before you commit to your menu selection, make sure to check with your venue for any catering restrictions or licensing needs. Hernandez of Delivering Experiences always tells his clients to “become familiar with the venue,” as your event space will determine how and when certain elements of your celebration unfold.

Fredericks of Abigail Kirsch Catering says, “Venue restrictions can offer more challenges to food activation stations, so it’s important to work with a cater who can help provide branded and unique serving vessels or waiter uniforms to highlight the company’s messaging.”

Other restrictions might include which caterers you can hire (some venues have exclusive or preferred caterers), live flames, food carts, on-site kitchens, or equipment availability, etc.

15. Hire a Caterer with Corporate Event Experience

photographer: John & Joseph Photography | photo posted by: W Hollywood | caterer: Good Gracious! Events & This Messy Table LA

The elements that go into creating a successful corporate event, like a well-crafted culinary experience, are inseparable from the people who produce those elements. Every catering company is made up of a group of people, and it’s those people who will plan, produce, and troubleshoot along the way. As such, it’s essential to hire an experienced catering company with excellent communication skills — as well as a commitment to quality and professionalism.

Hernandez of Delivering Experiences advises his clients to “look at a company’s reviews, availability, and whether they have experience handling corporate events like networking events, fundraisers, product launches, conferences, and grand openings.” This familiarity with corporate events will make the difference between a good meal and a great experience.

This is where research will come in handy to make sure your caterer of choice is able to accommodate your guests’ needs. - Caroline Stoeckel, Director of Sales and Marketing at M Culinary Concepts

Bednarek of Viola’s Kitchen Catering & Event Planning beautifully sums it up for us. “We believe in quality and passion in everything that we do, and we expect that companies should have a similar approach if they want to capitalize on any opportunities they have to include catered events.”

Use PartySlate’s curated directory to find a corporate caterer near you, or keep reading to reach out to our experienced contributors below.

Meet Our Experienced Corporate Catering Panel

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People Also Ask…

Where can I find a corporate event venue?

So much goes into choosing the right corporate event venue. PartySlate reached out to some of the top corporate event planners in the industry to learn more about what clients need to know before a booking a venue — and how to find the perfect fit. Check out “Top Planners Share How to Choose a Corporate Event Venue” for a step-by-step guide to finalizing your venue choice.

Once you’ve determined your venue needs and priorities, use PartySlate’s venue directory to find a corporate event venue near you. Use the filters to narrow your search by location, venue type, guest count, amenities, and more. Look for the “featured” tags to discover PartySlate’s top recommendations, and click into a preferred venue’s PartySlate profile to see how real business leaders utilized the space for their own corporate events.

Where can I find more corporate event inspiration?

PartySlate is your go-to resource for the best event inspiration. Click below to discover some the most popular corporate guides. Whether you’re looking to attract new customers, network with established business leaders, or retain employee talent, you’ll find everything you need to start planning a memorable celebration.