Two types of catering services are on-premise catering, where food is prepared and served at the event venue, and off-premise catering, where food is prepared at a separate location and transported to the event venue.

Unlike regular event catering, where the caterer just prepares and serves food and drinks, a full-service caterer handles every event detail based on clients' specifications. Some logistics, such as dinnerware, linens, serving utensils, and dedicated staff to help on-site, are handled by full-service catering.

Catering companies provide food and beverages for a wide variety of events. Their services help delight guests and often set the tone for the experience. Some catering companies offer customized menus while others create packages.

Catering is the business of providing food services at a remote site or a site such as a hotel, hospital, pub, aircraft, cruise ship, park, festival, filming location or film studio. Caterers preparing for a formal event.