Business Details
37 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Trusted Catering Services in Colorado Springs
Since 1989, we have been dedicated to redefining the art of catering through our commitment to fresh, non-GMO ingredients and personalized service. Our three distinct divisionsPicnic Basket, Buffalo Gals, and Cravingscater to diverse event needs, from intimate gatherings to large-scale corporate functions. With over 30 years of experience in Colorado Springs and the Front Range, we combine local sourcing with culinary creativity to deliver memorable experiences. Our team of seasoned professionals ensures seamless execution, whether planning weddings, VIP events, or casual celebrations. Recognized as the Best Catering Company in Colorado Springs for two decades, we prioritize community partnerships and sustainable practices.Our founders deep roots in hospitality and event planning drive our mission to exceed client expectations. We pride ourselves on adaptability, offering customizable menus, on-site grilling, and full-service event coordination. With a fleet traveling 30,000 miles annually, we serve over 135,000 guests across 2,147 events each year. Our culture of innovation and family-oriented values ensures every client receives unparalleled attention to detail. From rustic barbecues to gourmet plated dinners, we transform visions into unforgettable moments.
Services
Wedding Catering
Corporate Events
Private Parties
VIP Events
Celebration of Life
Santa Maria Barbecue
Custom Menu Creation
Event Planning
Delivery Services
Buffet Catering
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of expertise in Colorado Springs with three specialized catering divisions.
- Our menus feature fresh, non-GMO ingredients sourced from local farmers and ranchers.
- We provide full-service event planning, including venue selection and vendor coordination.
- Recognized as Colorado Springs' Best Catering Company for 20 consecutive years.
- Our team travels 30,000 miles annually to serve events across the Front Range and Pikes Peak Region.
What people say
Delicious gourmet meals
Professional and friendly staff
Stress-free event planning
Generous portions
Memorable experiences
Services
Wedding Catering
Our wedding catering combines Colorado-inspired cuisine with personalized planning. We offer customizable menus, venue coordination, and full-service staffing for ceremonies of all sizes. From rustic barns to luxury venues, our team ensures seamless execution and unforgettable culinary experiences tailored to your vision.
Corporate Events
We specialize in corporate catering with farm-to-table menus and professional service. Services include holiday parties, client dinners, and large galas with custom themes. Our team handles logistics, rentals, and setup to ensure your event reflects your brand while impressing attendees with exceptional food and presentation.
Santa Maria Barbecue
Buffalo Gals delivers authentic Santa Maria-style barbecue using custom red oak grills. We prepare meats, vegetables, and appetizers on-site for a sensory-rich experience. Ideal for casual gatherings, weddings, or corporate events seeking Colorado's rustic elegance with gourmet flavors and interactive dining.
Private Parties
From birthdays to anniversaries, we create memorable private celebrations with tailored menus and service styles. Options include buffet spreads, plated dinners, or interactive food stations. Our planners coordinate details like venue setup, rentals, and staffing to ensure stress-free entertaining for hosts and guests alike.
VIP Events
We cater high-profile VIP events and fundraisers with gourmet menus and discreet service. Our team works closely with nonprofits to align catering with event goals while sourcing locally to support community initiatives. Services include dietary accommodations, themed presentations, and logistics coordination for impactful, seamless experiences.
People
Michelle Talarico
Owner/Co-Founder
Michelle co-founded Picnic Basket Catering in 1989 with $300 and a passion for hospitality. With decades in the industry, she serves as company spokesperson and community leader, balancing operations with board roles at local nonprofits. Her career spans from Denver's Governors Park to Colorado College alumni networks.
Kathy Dreiling
Owner/Co-Founder
Kathy co-founded the company in 1989, leveraging her communications background and musical career to build a dynamic business. She oversees marketing and finance while managing on-site grilling and event planning. A self-proclaimed 'Buffalo Gal,' she brings creativity and adrenaline to every event.
Geri Hunt
Director of Culinary
Geri leads our culinary team with expertise in creating innovative menus that blend tradition with modern trends. With extensive experience in event catering, she ensures every dish meets our standards for quality and presentation while mentoring chefs across all three divisions.
Jennifer Chowning
Director of Operations
Jennifer oversees daily operations, ensuring smooth execution of over 2,147 annual events. Her leadership focuses on staff training and logistics coordination, maintaining efficiency across our 79-employee team while upholding service excellence during high-demand periods.
Lauren Bendure
Lead Sales and Event Designer
Lauren specializes in transforming client visions into reality through detailed event planning. She coordinates venue logistics, menu customization, and vendor partnerships, drawing on creative expertise to deliver unique experiences that consistently exceed client expectations.
Questions
What areas do you cater to?
We serve Colorado Springs, the Front Range, and Pikes Peak Region, with travel available beyond these areas for an additional fee.
Do you offer custom menus?
Yes, all our menus are fully customizable to match your event theme, dietary needs, and guest preferences.
What is your minimum order requirement?
We require a $150 minimum for catering orders and a 15-person minimum for buffet-style services.
Can you accommodate last-minute events?
We require 48 hours' notice for standard orders, but may accommodate emergencies or short-notice events based on availability.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept checks, credit cards, cash, and online payments before event delivery.
Do you provide event staff?
Yes, we offer trained service staff for events meeting our minimum requirements, including servers and on-site coordinators.
