How far in advance do I need to book my caterer?

I'm having an issue finding a caterer. The first issue, is that I live in California (but the wedding is on Long Island). Planning the wedding remotely has mostly not been an issue, except I can't do any tastings while I'm on the other side of the country. I was just home and did four tastings this week, but was honestly disappointed by all of them. So I still don't have a caterer and the next time I'm going to be home is in November around Thanksgiving time. My wedding is the following September and I'm worried that 10 months in advance is cutting it too close. I know that the real answer is 'the sooner the better', but in reality, how far ahead of time do I need to book it before caterers start to really book up for September? Can I wait until November? Or do I need to send family members to tastings over the summer and just hope they pick someone I like? Any other creative options I'm not thinking of? Any help would be much appreciated!

How far in advance do I need to book my caterer?

Good morning, I have seen your post for some time now and with not one Caterer contacting you I felt the need to reach out to you with some information to help you. My name is Luci and I work at Cruise Control Limousines and Long Island Trolleys so I am in close contact with many Brides! I have been to an absolutely Beautiful Wedding at The Carlyle on the Green 516-501-9700 in Farmingdale/Bethpage area and heard nothing but Excellent reviews! I would recommend that you Book everything you need while you are here in November. Please feel free to contact me with any questions and hope you will consider Us at Cruise Control Limousines and Long Island Trolleys for your Transportation needs 516-797-7454. We have a full fleet and we can customize a nice package for you! Best of Luck with your Wedding, Luci