Weddings are live dramas that are supposed to be perfect. A caterer’s excuses—even if the problem is not their fault—fall on deaf and angry ears. The caterer’s reputation is in the hands of those who failed to make the caterer aware of all they should know. Surprises and weddings do not go hand in hand. Everything from weather to an intoxicated uncle can result in unforeseen situations that require the caterer to think on their feet and become their own genie in the lantern.

Nevertheless, most caterers reading this can honestly say that weddings are a major reason for their success and provide handsome profits to the bottom line while securing new clients along the way. In fact, many of their happiest events have been weddings. When I say “happiest” I mean from the caterer’s viewpoint, not just the customer’s.

Most people attend fewer than 20 weddings in a lifetime as a guest. Caterers “attend” hundreds of weddings over a career. In the same way that doctors take pride and joy in bringing babies into this world, caterers take pride and joy, whether they realize it or not, in being involved in the magic of joining couples and families. Sure, weddings are filled with potential crisis and hard work, but I’m convinced that there is a special spot in heaven for those professionals who cater weddings.

© Mike Roman, president/founder, Catersource. Published in the May/June 2011 issue of Catersource magazine. Catersource Magazine, Conference & Tradeshow is dedicated to the education and growth of the professional caterer. Stay connected with reliable news, information, products, services and networking opportunities relevant to your business, and be a part of the largest resource network in the industry. Visit www.catersource.com for more information.