So you’ve been put in charge of the food. Maybe it’s for your boss, your in-laws, your team, or your closest friends. Whether it’s a birthday, a training session, or a milestone celebration, one thing’s for sure: food can make or break the moment. But if it’s your first time handling catering, you might be wondering—where do I even begin?
Don’t worry. At CaterCo, we’ve helped thousands of first-time hosts turn their events into feasts. From Buffet Catering to Bento meals, Drop-Off options, and even full Thematic Setups, we’ve got your back. Let’s walk through the basics—so you can serve with confidence.
Step 1: Know Your Guest List
Start with the numbers. Are you feeding 12 colleagues or 120 party guests? Your headcount will help determine which catering style fits best:
- Under 20 guests: Drop-Off Catering or GatherBoxes are ideal—neat, tidy, and portioned
- 20–50 guests: Buffet Catering allows for sharing, variety, and generous portions
- 50+ guests: Consider adding Live Stations or a Thematic Setup to elevate the experience
Step 2: Choose the Right Menu Style
CaterCo offers several formats, each suited for a different kind of gathering:
- Buffet Catering – Great for weddings, birthdays, open houses, and corporate events
- Bento Catering – Best for seminars, office lunches, or anywhere clean individual portions are preferred
- Drop-Off Catering – Ideal for home celebrations and intimate get-togethers
- Cocktail Reception – For elegant, mobile events with bite-sized options
- Personal Feast Sets – A thoughtful option for gifting or premium solo meals
If you're unsure, just reach out to us—we’ll help you pick based on your event's mood and needs.
First Time Hosting? Let’s Make It Effortless.
🎉 You focus on the guests—we’ll handle the feast.
From first-timers to seasoned hosts, CaterCo makes it easy to deliver joy with every meal.
Request a quote or order now and we’ll help guide you through it.
Step 3: Think About Setup and Flow
Are guests eating at once, or grazing over time? Will there be space to walk, mingle, or sit? Here are a few tips:
- Limited seating? Go with Bento Catering or cocktail-style bites
- Open-plan space? Buffet Catering with a clear flow line is your best friend
- Need visual appeal? Add a Thematic Setup to elevate the food presentation
Our team can even help sketch your layout if needed.
Step 4: Lock in Timing and Delivery
At CaterCo, we don’t just deliver—we deliver on time. We’ll help schedule your catering to match your event timeline. Whether you need bentos dropped off before a seminar begins, or a buffet timed right after speeches, we’ll get it there hot and ready.
FAQs for First-Time Caterers
Do I need to worry about setup or cleanup?
Nope. We offer styling, setup, and even teardown for our larger packages. For simple drop-offs or bentos, just unbox and serve.
What if I don’t know how much to order?
That’s where we shine. Tell us your guest profile and timing, and we’ll guide you. Or visit our FAQ page for quick answers.
Can I speak to someone about my event first?
Of course. Contact us anytime at Contact Us or book through our Request a Quote page.
You Don’t Need Experience—Just the Right Partner
Whether you’re throwing a party for the first time or planning your first office event, CaterCo is here to guide, serve, and support you. With warm service, incredible food, and flexible catering options, we make sure your first event feels effortless—and unforgettable.
→ Start your catering journey now
→ Explore all our menus
→ Place your order online
