No matter what size your event, from a wedding or corporate event to a small anniversary party, hiring a caterer can make a huge difference on your experience. Parties are supposed to be fun. When you’re doing all of the planning, the cooking, the hosting, the serving and the cleanup, they’re not so enjoyable. A quality caterer can put the enjoyment back into throwing a party. Here are the top seven reasons to hire a caterer for your next event.

• Save yourself some time.
  Instead of spending hours planning your menu, cooking and making preparations, you’ll save time and stress by letting a catering team do the work.
• Make a statement.
  When your event is catered, it tells people that this is an important occasion. The atmosphere and attention you pay to a birthday party, your anniversary, important business dinner or large event makes a long-lasting impression.
• Save money.
  Buying all of the food, equipment and table decorations for a single event can be expensive. A caterer already has most of the equipment and table decorations. The food can be bought from wholesalers and markets, saving you money from higher grocery store prices.
• Offer a versatile menu.
  Like most people, you’re probably limited in your menu capabilities and an important event is not the time to try out an untested recipe. A special event deserves a little something extra from the menu. Caterers have extensive experience with many different dishes.
• Reduce your stress level.
  Hire a caterer to handle the decorations, the cooking and the preparation. The catering team will also clean up afterwards. You’ll be able to enjoy your guests without stressing out about the oven temperature and whether there’s enough ice for the drinks. Your stress level is always lower when you put a competent team of professionals in charge of the details. This is better for your mood, your health and your guests.
• Create the right atmosphere.
  Not everyone likes to entertain at home. Having a catered party at a venue provides ample space for many guests and preserves your privacy. It also relieves the awkwardness that comes with holding an event after-hours at your office.
• Cooking for a crowd is challenging.
  You might not have the kitchen space, the equipment, the energy or the means to cook for a crowd. Let the catering staff cope with the volume while you mix and mingle with your guests. Professional caterers do have the kitchen space, the equipment, the energy and the means.
• When you’re planning a party, consider how you’re realistically going to get it all done.
  Turning over your party to a professional can take the stress out of your next event.