A catering page lists event types you serve, menus or packages, minimums, travel area and what is included, then collects the details you need to quote: date, location, guest count, service style and contact. Keep the form short and do not collect sensitive data.
Form fields
- Event date and time
- Venue area or city
- Guest count
- Service style (truck service, drop-off)
- Menu interest
- Contact details
Template
Use the catering inquiry form template.
Worked example
Luis creates a catering page with three packages (taco bar for 25, 50 and 100 guests), what's included, service time, travel area and a short form: date, time, location, guest count, package interest, dietary needs and contact. He replies within a day with a quote and availability, and requires a deposit to hold the date. Catering grows to a steady part of his income within six months.
Common mistakes
- Long forms that scare people off
- No travel area listed
- Slow replies
- No deposit policy
Sample reply to an inquiry
"Thanks for reaching out! We'd love to cater your office lunch on March 3 for 40 guests. Our taco bar package fits well; the quote is attached, including service time and travel. A deposit secures the date. Any dietary needs we should plan for?"
What planners want to know
Event planners and office managers want to know quickly whether you fit: the cuisine, packages, minimum guest count or spend, service time, travel area, what's included (plates, napkins, setup), dietary options and how far in advance to book. Put these on the page before the form. Add photos from real events and a few short testimonials with permission. A page that answers these questions gets better-qualified inquiries and fewer back-and-forth emails.
Common mistakes
- No minimums stated
- No travel area
- Slow replies
Building trust with planners
Show your licenses and insurance readiness, list recent event types (weddings, offices, schools) and include a short note about your setup and cleanup routine. Planners want reliable vendors who make their job easier.
Follow-up after events
After each catering job, send a thank-you, ask for a review and offer a simple reorder option for the next event. Repeat catering clients are often the most profitable.
Common questions
Should I list catering prices?
Show per-person ranges or minimums if they are stable; otherwise explain what affects the quote.
Should I require a minimum guest count?
Many trucks set a minimum spend or guest count to make events worthwhile.
Should I show catering photos?
Yes, photos of real events help planners picture your service.
Do I need extra insurance for catering?
Ask your agent; venues often require certificates naming them.
Should I include a menu for catering?
Yes, a catering menu or package list helps planners choose.
How fast should I reply?
Within a day; planners often contact several caterers.
Do planners ask for references?
Some do; keep a few happy clients willing to speak with them.
Should I offer tastings?
Some trucks offer tastings for large events like weddings, sometimes for a fee credited to the booking.
Put your menu and schedule in one easy-to-share place
A simple website gives customers your current menu, where you are parked this week and a way to book catering, all from one link.
See food-truck websites