Business Details
36 Years
experience
Custom Catering Services in Petaluma, California
Founded over 30 years ago by Owner/Chef Amber Balshaw and her husband Jim, Preferred Sonoma Caterers combines culinary expertise with a deep commitment to local, sustainable ingredients. Our menus are crafted to reflect seasonal availability and client preferences, featuring produce, cheeses, and seafood sourced from local farmers and artisans. With a legacy of environmental stewardship, we became a Certified Green Company in 2009, integrating eco-friendly practices into every aspect of our operations. Our team, many of whom have been with us for years, brings unparalleled experience to events ranging from intimate gatherings to large-scale weddings and corporate functions.Located in a historic 1911 building in Petaluma, our facility blends historic charm with modern efficiency, serving as a testament to our dedication to both community and craftsmanship. We pride ourselves on personalized service, offering event planning advice, rental coordination, and on-site culinary expertise to ensure every event exceeds expectations.
Services
Wedding Catering
Corporate Events
Private Parties
Menu Planning
Event Coordination
Rental Services
Sustainable Catering
Seasonal Menus
On-site Staffing
Venue Recommendations
Details
- Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
- We offer over 30 years of experience in event catering and menu design.
- Our menus feature locally sourced, sustainable ingredients from Petaluma producers.
- We maintain a Certified Green Company status with eco-friendly operations since 2009.
- Our experienced team provides personalized service for events of all sizes.
- We offer comprehensive event solutions including planning, rentals, and staffing.
Associations and certifications
- Green Company Certification
What people say
Exceptional cuisine
Professional service
Creative menus
Reliable execution
Sustainable practices
Services
Wedding Catering
We specialize in creating unforgettable wedding experiences with custom menus tailored to seasonal ingredients and personal preferences. Our team coordinates every detail from initial planning to on-site execution, ensuring seamless service for ceremonies and receptions of all sizes. With extensive experience in venue coordination and rental management, we help couples bring their vision to life while maintaining exceptional culinary standards.
Corporate Events
Our corporate catering services combine gourmet cuisine with professional execution for conferences, galas, and business meetings. We offer flexible menu options from casual buffets to formal plated dinners, supported by comprehensive event planning and staffing solutions. Our experienced team ensures events run smoothly while maintaining the highest standards of food quality and presentation for professional audiences.
Menu Planning
We collaborate closely with clients to create customized menus that reflect their tastes, event themes, and dietary requirements. Our planning process considers venue logistics, seasonal ingredient availability, and presentation aesthetics to deliver cohesive culinary experiences. From traditional favorites to innovative contemporary dishes, we ensure every menu perfectly complements the occasion.
Event Coordination
Our comprehensive event coordination covers timelines, vendor management, and on-site logistics for seamless event execution. We handle rental arrangements, staffing deployment, and venue-specific requirements to ensure smooth operations. With decades of experience in event flow and timing, we provide expert guidance from initial planning through final cleanup.
Sustainable Catering
As a Certified Green Company since 2009, we integrate environmentally responsible practices throughout our operations. We prioritize local sourcing to reduce transportation impact while supporting regional farmers and producers. Our facility incorporates energy-efficient systems and waste reduction strategies, demonstrating our commitment to sustainability without compromising culinary excellence.
People
Amber Balshaw
Executive Chef
Owner/Chef Amber Balshaw, a fifth-generation Petaluma native, brings over 30 years of culinary expertise to Preferred Sonoma Caterers. With experience cooking for dignitaries and celebrities, she specializes in creating innovative menus that showcase local ingredients while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainable practices.
Jim Balshaw
General Manager
Jim Balshaw, co-founder and General Manager, oversees daily operations and client relations at Preferred Sonoma Caterers. With extensive experience in event logistics and business management, he ensures seamless execution of services while maintaining the company's commitment to quality and community involvement.
AnnieLaurie Alkire
Operations and Events Manager
AnnieLaurie Alkire, niece of Chef Amber Balshaw, serves as Operations and Events Manager with over a decade of experience in event coordination. She brings expertise in managing complex logistics and client communications, ensuring smooth execution of events while maintaining the company's high service standards.
Timber Alkire
Bookkeeper
Timber Alkire, Chef Amber's sister, manages financial operations at Preferred Sonoma Caterers. With years of accounting experience, she ensures accurate financial management while supporting the company's long-term sustainability and growth through responsible fiscal practices.
Questions
What types of events do you cater?
We cater weddings, corporate events, private parties, and special occasions ranging from intimate gatherings to large-scale functions with 30-1500 guests.
Do you offer sustainable catering options?
Yes, as a Certified Green Company since 2009, we prioritize local sourcing, eco-friendly practices, and energy-efficient operations while maintaining culinary excellence.
Can you accommodate special dietary requirements?
Yes, we offer customized menus for vegetarian, gluten-free, and other dietary needs, working closely with clients to ensure all guests' requirements are met.
Do you provide event planning services?
Yes, we offer comprehensive event planning including timelines, vendor coordination, rental arrangements, and on-site management to ensure seamless execution.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Sonoma, Marin, and Napa counties, with experience in venue coordination and logistics across Northern California wine country.
Are rental items included in your services?
Yes, we coordinate rental items including china, glassware, linens, tables, and chairs through trusted partners as part of our comprehensive event solutions.
Reviews (4)
Chelsea C.
Nov 26, 2021
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I ordered their pre made Thanksgiving Dinner this year. It was amazing! I had 14 guest and everyone comment on how delicious the meal was. Reheat direction were easy and I was able to do it all with just one oven. I was able to enjoy the day since they did all the work! There was not a single thing I would change about the meal.
John Alden
Nov 07, 2021
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I own the Mountain House Estate wedding venue and highly recommend Amber and the team. Karen, the banquet captain and her team for two weddings here this weekend once again knocked it out of the park. Guests had a great time, loved the food, and had many compliments for this catering company. The professional wedding planners who 'ran the show' always love working with Preferred Sonoma Caterers. Great with the guests, and great with the team working behind the scenes - working in concert to make it the best day ever!
Jennifer U.
Oct 08, 2021
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If you are looking for a wedding caterer look no further! Preferred Sonoma caterers was a pleasure to work with in planning our May wedding. From the moment I reached out to them they were always professional and responsive to emails and phone calls. They crafted a beautiful menu for us that featured fresh and delicious California food. The service during the wedding was exceptional and our guests raved about the food. They go the extra mile to ensure that your day is special and truly make you feel like a valued customer along the way. If we plan another event in the future we will be sure to
Alix B.
Sep 22, 2021
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It was an absolute delight to have PSC cater our wedding. The flow of the event went so smoothly because of them and my guests and I loved the food. Their professionalism and expertise definitely allowed me to enjoy the day with friends & family.
