Venue Coordination
The pre-event communication between caterer and venue covering logistics, permits, insurance, load-in, and service flow.
Venue coordination is what separates a smooth catered event from a chaotic one. It covers: exchanging the caterer's COI with the venue, confirming the load-in time and access route, locating the service footprint relative to guest flow, confirming power (shore vs generator), establishing the trash and grease disposal plan, and aligning on the day-of point of contact at the venue. Reputable caterers initiate this coordination 2–4 weeks before service, not the day of. Always ask your caterer for the venue contact they will be coordinating with.
Related terms
A one-page document proving the caterer carries general liability insurance and, on request, naming the venue as an additional insured.
Electrical power supplied by a venue (rather than the truck's onboard generator) — typically a 30-amp or 50-amp outlet.
A pre-event inspection of the venue to confirm a food truck or pop-up can physically set up, get power, and serve safely.
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