When hiring a caterer for your meeting or event, you are putting a lot of trust into that staff. Food is the heart and soul of most events and bad catering could make or break your meeting or event. Here are five tips to consider when working with a caterer.  
  Today, meeting planners have several options to choose from when planning a meeting or event. Instead of using standard plates, glasses and flatware - there is the option of biodegradable dinnerware. Surprisingly, many of the biodegradable pieces are not only durable, but some are made very stylish and elegant. Also popular is utilizing disposable drop-off carriers and bamboo products. Using these products is not only good for the environment, but it is very handy for caterers, especially those working off-premise. In addition, instead of handing out bottles of water, use water pitchers for your guests. Many times a lot of food is left over, so consider taking the leftovers to a local food pantry. Meeting planners that have decorations such as fresh flowers, that have no place to go after the event, can take them to a local nursing home.