Fortunately this was not a “glam” event, so there was no major embarrassment. Just surprise and indignation at how the caterer could be late. I had one previous experience where I was so angry. This time I was not host/organizer. I’m sure the organizer must be very frustrated. I won’t name this caterer since I’m not the host/organizer, except that it starts with H (just to remind myself when I need to refer to my list of banned caterers).
Caterers have unforgiving schedules and logistics that have to run perfectly. It is not easy. But that’s the business.