How to Choose a Caterer Once you go through our listings for catering services companies in Illinois IL, you will be able to narrow down the options to a shorter list. This is the time to call the prospective catering services companies Illinois because you need to make sure they are available at the time you require. Some caterers are booked years in advance, so you cannot count on hiring a caterer IL until you verify your event date with them. Remember that something as simple as the way a caterer answers the phone may indicate the nature of their business. Start using your intuition with that first scheduling call to notice things like their professionalism, style, and efficiency. Once you have a short list of catering services Illinois with the date of your event available, you can start asking questions. Find out what their experience is and ask for references. Do not forget to actually call the references. Most people will be glad to share their experience with you. Once you have further narrowed down your options, see if the remaining candidates cater for public events. You may want to take that opportunity to sample their services. Do not be afraid to get down to the business end of the negotiations. Any good business deal will include clear communication about budget. Be sure to get an understanding of what is included in the price. For example, inquire what services are provided and whether the caterer provides dishes, centrepieces, etc. Once the details are worked out, make sure to put it in writing.