Increasingly the answer to this question is yes. If your caterer is busy, it means they're busy working in a whole host of venues in the city, dealing with decor, rentals and staffing- everything that is needed for an event.
Responsibility
Making your caterer your event planner puts the responsibility for your event under one roof- It keeps things simple. Caterers are organization fanatics, if they've been in business for any length of time they have to be. They're trained to think of everything because though they've seen a lot, they haven't see it all. They expect the unexpected and can always devise a workable solution. Generally speaking, responsibility is synonymous with liability. Whomever carries the insurance needs to be involved in the decision making process. Always check for insurance!
When conceiving an event, caterers are able to run their ideas through a "yes, but will it work filter". Or stated differently, the overall conception of a wedding might be where the excitement is, but having the ability to tackle the details is where the challenge is. Caterers love a challenge.
Cost
Caterers know a lot about event planning and are willing to share this knowledge at no charge as part of their service. Hiring separate event planners for very large events makes complete sense, but for smaller ones, where price is an object, using your caterer could be the way to go.
Connections
They are a perfect point of contact in explaining the particular "ins and outs" of any venue or service you might be considering for your event.. In a nutshell, you've caterer will probably be able to tell you if what you're planning will actually fly.. Great caterers have strong relationships with rental companies as well as close connections to a seasoned roster of service staff. It goes without saying that really exceptional service staff are drawn to well run catering companies. Like attracts like.
Staffing Requirements
Making decisions about staffing levels is advice best heeded from your caterer. They know from the type of event, whether it be a sit-down dinner or buffet, just how many service staff are needed to bring the party off without a glitch. It needs to be said as well that bar tending is an art (especially if you're offering a full bar that includes cocktails) and needs to be in experienced hands.
Lighting and Decor
Lighting is often overlooked when planning decor and flower arrangements. Less can be much more when highlighted with proper lighting. Consider making food the feature by using elevated displays with clear glass platters. Use fresh flower arrangements to act as focal points in drawing the eye to important areas,. Working with candle light and lanterns are low-cost ways to add interest and set the mood without messy electrical cords distracting from the look.
Event Day
Coordinating an event is like conducting an orchestra. Bringing disparate forces together into one coherent whole can only be the job of one person. Your caterer will know where everyone needs to be and at what time. Pacing the event by controlling the flow of food and drink is of the utmost importance.
If entrusted with the task. your caterer could very well be the best person to plan your party and execute it to the highest of standards. Caterers have a vested interest in making an event successful on all levels because the they realize their reputation is on the line as much as yours.
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