Episode 17: Packaging, Process, and Profit—Catering Strategy with Jenn Saunders-Haynes

In this episode of Restaurant Catering Smarts, Michael Attias welcomes Jenn Saunders-Haynes, Owner & Chief Catering Strategist at Elizabeth Jewel Consulting. Jenn shares why the three P's—Packaging, Process, and Profit—are the foundation of catering success. From avoiding the trap of copying your full restaurant menu, to choosing functional packaging that protects food quality, to building systems that scale without chaos, she brings decades of hospitality and catering expertise to the conversation. Michael and Jenn also dive into the importance of data over gut instinct, how to leverage third-party platforms as marketing tools (not your main revenue stream), and creative grassroots ways to grow catering even without a sales team. Packed with practical insights—from menu design to packaging hacks, sales strategies, and leadership alignment—this episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to move beyond "random acts of catering" and build a profitable, scalable program. Restaurant Catering Smarts is sponsored by CaterZen Catering Software.