The Blog

categories

Search bar with the question "Who are the top corporate caterers in my area?" representing AI-powered search using ChatGPT.

How to Make Sure Your Catering or Venue Business Shows Up on ChatGPT

Right now, AI tools like ChatGPT are changing how your future clients find vendors—and if your catering or venue business isn’t showing up, it’s not because you’re not excellent. It’s because AI doesn’t recognize or understand you yet. You’re not alone. Most caterers and venues haven’t been told how to optimize for AI tools like […]

read more →

Catering, Marketing, Sales Training

A hand arranging wooden blocks that spell out the word “FEES” on a white desk, symbolizing the concept of service charges or pricing structures in business.

Let’s Talk About the “F” Word: FEES

(How to Lead With Confidence When Clients Push Back on Pricing) You know the moment. It’s going so well on the call, and then the client says it:
 “But the other caterer doesn’t charge an admin fee…”

 Or worse:
 “We love everything… but you’re just too expensive.” And suddenly, your energy dips. You get a […]

read more →

Catering, Sales Correspondence, Sales Training

Golden lab puppy lying on a soft gray dog bed, looking directly at the camera

The Micro-Moments That Build a Sales Powerhouse

Small actions. Big trust. Real results. I once had a client tell me they booked their venue because the salesperson remembered their dog’s name. That was it. Not the price. Not the Pinterest-worthy ballroom. Not the perfectly paired signature cocktail. It was the moment during a follow-up call when the salesperson asked, “How’s Bear doing?” […]

read more →

Sales Correspondence, Sales Training, Venue

10 Ways to Caterers & Event Pros Are Staying Ahead in 2025

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 What was trending last year might already feel outdated today.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 […]

read more →

Catering, Marketing, Menu Ideas

Food inclusion & catering sales

Uniting Food Including & Catering Sales: A Conversation with Tracy Stuckrath

Listen to the podcast It was an absolute delight to join my friend and colleague, Tracy Stuckrath, on her “Eating at a Meeting” podcast. Tracy and I share a deep passion for food inclusion and diversity, and how these crucial elements can drive success in catering sales. Our conversation was not just a meeting of minds […]

read more →

Catering, Sales Training

2024 predictions for the booking window evolution

Rainmaker’s Predictions for 2024: The Booking Window Evolution

What an incredible honor it is to be invited by Catersource Magazine’s 2024 Winter Edition to contribute to their “25 Positive Predictions for 2024” alongside some of the top professionals in the catering and event industry. As the CEO and founder of Rainmaker Sales & Marketing, I’m thrilled to bring a dose of positivity and insight into […]

read more →

Sales Training, Wedding

Barbie inspired wedding themes

Capitalizing on the Barbie Craze: A Guide for Wedding Pros

In the ever-evolving world of wedding trends, there’s a new wave sweeping the industry: the Barbie-inspired, ultra-frilly wedding, a vibe exuding happiness and optimism. As a wedding professional, it’s a fantastic opportunity to offer unique services that cater to clients looking to infuse their special day with glamour and nostalgia. Here are ideas on how […]

read more →

Catering, Menu Ideas, Sales Training, Wedding

This 12-month Rainmaker Sales Meeting Roadmap includes a calendar of check-ins and suggested adjustments that will help you create the kind of consistent, steady progress that transforms how your team connects with clients and closes sales.

Are your Sales Meetings lacking intention, energy, and purpose?