Ideally the hunt for a caterer begins right after you secure a location for your wedding, corporate event or party. However, it's not uncommon to be strapped for time, which makes LocalCatering.com an even more invaluable tool for finding the right caterer for your event fast.

Caterers should be able to propose menus and make estimates of cost. Be specific about your needs when filling out your form. You should receive quotes fairly quickly. These proposals are almost always on a price-per-guest basis and specific to your individual requests. It's not uncommon for a caterer to give you a list of optional catering extras, but keep in mind these are just that - optional. Always be sure to clarify with your caterer what is and is not included and for simplicity sake, it's best to look at similar menus and services when comparing quote to quote.

The experts say you should do the following when choosing a caterer:

• Check the caterer's Better Business Bureau rating.

• Make sure the catering company is licensed and insured.

• Review pictures of past events to see how they present food and integrate with your design and aesthetic taste.

All LocalCatering.com members are licensed and insured and their standing with the BBB is confirmed regularly. In addition, we list pictures for your review, as well as links to the caterer's website.

Here are some additional tips that can make your day shine once you've chosen your caterer using LocalCatering.com:

• You and your caterer should create a timeline of events - arrival time, set-up time necessary, length of event, tear-down process and clean-up.

• Review the event site with your caterer. Most qualified caterers have strong ties to venues, but it never hurts to walk through the site together and nail down details in person.

• Look at samples of linen, china and glassware rentals. You can do this at the caterer's office and sometimes in your own home or at the event venue.

• Ask if the food is prepared at the venue site or at an off-site kitchen and delivered. Neither option is necessarily good or bad. A qualified caterer is proficient at his or her task and can provide ultimate quality. It's just good to have an idea how things are functioning on the back-end.

• What is the policy for leftover food? Some hosts and hostesses want those leftovers. Don't be afraid to ask.

• Ask about the staff's attire to make sure it fits the occasion. If it's a black-tie event, you're going to want suitable presentation from the servers.

• Ask how gratuities are calculated. Tipping is a part of life, so don't hesitate to ask.

• Things happen. Events cancel. Make sure you understand the cancellation policy.

• Find out when you are required to submit a final head count. Don't make the mistake of ending up with too little or too little food. While most caterers are flexible, it's best to weigh on the safe side.

• Have fun! It's your event and you should have some time to sit back and enjoy your success.