Definition:
Catering is the activity of providing food and beverage for events. Caterers, which are either independent vendors or individuals within a particular department of a facility (such as a hotel, restaurant, institution, venue, etc.).
Catering is provided at a full range of events, including business meetings, conferences, exhibitions, special events, weddings, and other social occasions. In addition to responsibilities for food and beverage, many caterers also handle event decor, A/V and other aspects of the program. The catering manager will typically manage the staffing of servers, chefs and others.
Examples:
The event manager organized a fundraising special event at the local hotel, and the catering department handled all logistics associated with food, beverage, decor and entertainment for the program. Catering included a cocktail hour and a formal sit down meal.