Book 6–12 months ahead for weddings; 2–4 months for galas

Wedding & Event Catering Near You

Caterers that specialize in weddings, banquets, galas and large celebrations, often with full staff and bar. 133 listings in 39 states.

How Far Ahead Should You Book Wedding, Banquet and Event Caterers?

People usually book wedding, banquet and event caterers 6–12 months ahead for weddings; 2–4 months for galas. We list 133 wedding, banquet and event caterers in 39 states, most in California, Ohio, Pennsylvania. Before booking, compare the total price with every fee, what is included, and the deposit and cancellation terms.

Updated November 5, 2026 · Source: OpenStreetMap listings (refreshed November 5, 2026); catering.broker planning guide.

Illustration: Caterers that specialize in weddings, banquets, galas and large celebrations, often with full staff and bar.

Top Questions to Ask

  1. What is the price per guest, and what exactly does it include?
  2. Can you send a sample invoice for our guest count with every fee, tax and service charge?
  3. Do you hold a food permit or license and liability insurance? Can our venue get a certificate of insurance?
  4. How do you handle allergies and vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal or kosher meals?
  5. When is the final headcount due, and can it change after that?

See all 12 questions and tips →

Good to Know

  • For weddings, book the venue first, then the caterer: many venues limit you to an approved list.
  • Buffets are not always cheaper than plated meals once staffing and food quantity are counted.
  • Plan one server per 10–12 guests for plated dinners, fewer for buffets.
StateListings
California13
Ohio10
Pennsylvania10
New York8
Virginia8
Washington7
Arizona6
Michigan6
Illinois5
New Jersey5
Florida4
Maryland4
Oregon4
Georgia3
Indiana3
Tennessee3
Arkansas2
Connecticut2
Idaho2
Missouri2
New Hampshire2
New Mexico2
North Carolina2
South Carolina2
Texas2
Utah2
Vermont2
Alaska1
Colorado1
Delaware1
Hawaii1
Kansas1
Kentucky1
Maine1
Massachusetts1
Mississippi1
Nebraska1
Nevada1
South Dakota1

Common Questions

How far ahead should you book wedding, banquet and event caterers?

People usually book wedding, banquet and event caterers 6–12 months ahead for weddings; 2–4 months for galas. Weekends from May to October and the November–December holiday season fill first. Compare the total price, what is included, and the deposit and cancellation terms before booking.

How much do wedding, banquet and event caterers cost?

As a planning range, expect about $50–$130 per guest for food, staff and service charge before the bar. Prices vary widely by city, date, menu and guest count, so get two or three written quotes and compare the totals with every fee included. Our cost calculator lets you plug in your own numbers.

What should you ask an event caterer before booking?

Start with: What is the price per guest, and what exactly does it include; Can you send a sample invoice for our guest count with every fee, tax and service charge; Do you hold a food permit or license and liability insurance? Can our venue get a certificate of insurance. Our full list has 12 questions, and the quote comparison tool lets you line up the answers.

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Featured From the Map

Listings with the most contact details. Not paid placements.

Tableside Gourmet

Tempe, AZ

Full-Service CaterersWedding & Event CateringPhoneWebsiteHours

El Toro Gourmet Meats

23522 El Toro Road, Lake Forest, CA

Full-Service CaterersWedding & Event CateringPhoneWebsiteHours

Listings: © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL) · Data last updated November 5, 2026 · Sources & method