10 Ways to Stay Ahead of Catering and Event Trends in 2025

The catering and event industry is constantly evolving.

What was trending last year might already feel outdated today. If you’re in the catering business, staying ahead isn’t about chasing fads but understanding industry trends, anticipating client preferences, and strategically positioning your offerings to remain competitive.

Ignoring trends means your competitors are gaining an edge. Staying ahead in the catering business means understanding catering business trends for 2025, using innovative catering strategies, and leveraging marketing for luxury and corporate catering services.

Let’s look at 10 powerful ways to keep your catering menus, event styling, and client experience fresh and in demand for 2025 and beyond.

1. Follow Luxury Hospitality & Lifestyle Brands

Your clients aren’t just looking at catering options—they’re influenced by luxury hospitality brands, high-end restaurants, and lifestyle trends. Watch how brands like Four Seasons, Chanel, or Architectural Digest present their experiences

Pro Tip: Follow luxury food influencers and high-end event designers. Ask yourself:
“How can I bring a touch of exclusivity and storytelling to my catering services?”

2. Leverage Social Media & Viral Food Trends

Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest are shaping what clients expect to see at their events. Whether it’s pickle boards, oyster towers, or interactive tableside service, trends are emerging online before they become mainstream.

Action Plan:

• Engage with food influencers to boost brand awareness.
• Follow #EventTrends, #LuxuryCatering, #WeddingFood on Instagram.
• Create short videos showcasing innovative catering ideas – tell your audience how you are implementing a trend.

3. Attend & Host Industry Conferences & Workshops

Here are a few musts:

Catersource & The Special Event
NACE (National Association for Catering & Events)
ICA (International Caterers Association)

Can’t attend in person? Follow event hashtags, read expert panel recaps, and connect with vendors online.

Below, our friends at LUX Catering & Events creatively hosting the Caviar & Champagne Lounge at NACE Salt Lake City. At the top, LUX Catering & Events owner, Chris Sanchez, leaning into the “Caviar Bumps” trend.

4. Build Stronger Relationships with Event Planners & Designers

Winning catering inspiration doesn’t happen in isolation. Your food presentation, service style, and menu offerings should align with the overall event theme, decor, and guest experience.

• Engage with planners, venues, purveyors, & florists.
• Partner with wedding and corporate event designers for exclusive catering collaborations.
• Ask what menu styles and presentation formats are in demand.

5. Follow Industry Publications & Food Forecasts

Reading & listening to food industry publications and podcasts can give you a competitive advantage. Some of the best include:

The Venue RX, Catersource Magazine, Special Events, Food & Wine

Must-read reports:

• Nation’s Restaurant News (for menu & service innovations)
• Martha Stewart Weddings & Brides Magazine (for wedding catering trends)
• VICE Muchies, Eater & Bon Appétit (for trending flavors & techniques)

6. Analyze Client Requests & Booking Trends

Some of the best catering insights come directly from your clients’ requests. If multiple clients are asking for plant-based menus, family-style service, or interactive dining experiences, it’s time to refine your offerings.

Data to analyze:
Your most booked catering packages
Menu items that generate high inquiries but low conversions
Popular service styles (buffet vs. plated vs. live stations)

7. Build a Strong Network with Catering Peers

The best caterers aren’t just focused on their business—they stay connected with industry peers. Networking helps you discover new techniques, suppliers, and trends before they go mainstream.

Join these networks:

• Local and national catering associations
• LinkedIn groups for food industry leaders
• Private Facebook groups for event professionals

Rainmaker Insight: Trends move fast, but so do ideas. A quick conversation with a fellow pro can spark a new way to plate, market, or present your services.

8. Track Global Food & Beverage Trends

What’s trending in Paris, Tokyo, or Mexico City today could influence high-end catering menus tomorrow. Michelin-starred chefs, destination dining experiences, and street food trends shape the future of event catering.

Follow:

• Netflix’s Chef’s Table & food documentaries
• The World’s 50 Best Restaurants
• International food festivals

9. Study Your Competitors & Elevate Your Offerings

If you’re not analyzing your competitors, you’re giving them an edge.

Review their:
Holiday & seasonal menus
Event presentation styles
Social media marketing strategies

Competitor Strategy:

• Identify gaps in their offerings and improve your own strategy.
• Take screenshots of their menu presentations & pricing.
• Compare your booking process to see if theirs is smoother.

10. Innovate & Set Your Own Trends

The best way to stay ahead is to create trends instead of following them. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Innovation Tips:
Test new plating techniques & interactive service ideas.
Create a seasonal tasting menu with a limited-time offering.
Offer unique dining experiences (e.g., themed catering nights, private chef services).

Why Staying on Top of Trends Matters

Keeping up with catering trends isn’t just about being “trendy.”

It’s about:
Positioning yourself as a leader in the industry
Meeting client expectations before they even ask
Creating profitable and in-demand catering services

Now tell us! What’s one catering trend you’re most excited about for 2025? Let us know in the comments!