Hotels and conference centers around the country specialize in hosting large groups for meetings, trade shows, and other big events. Many hotels have their own conference center with a large catering kitchen that can handle events for hundreds, if not thousands. The Marriott and Hyatt hotel chains have conference centers adjacent to their properties across the country.

Conference centers are often independent operations with special amenities and rooms for hosting large corporate and nonprofit groups for sales meetings and other functions. They are often located in suburban and rural settings and offer guests peace and quiet. They can offer catering services, overnight accommodation, audiovisual equipment, and special activities for guests such as golf, boating, and hiking.

While you will not be competing with this segment of the industry directly, it's important to know what's going on in the industry. Also, smaller hotels and conference centers without large catering facilities may need the services of an independent caterer from time to time.