Catering Do’s and Don’ts For Your Next Corporate Event

Organizing a memorable event involves numerous considerations, with catering playing a crucial role. Serving dishes that cater to various preferences can make or break your event. Here are some do’s and don’ts to ensure your catering stands out for all the right reasons.

Do:

• Choose organic, local, and seasonal ingredients

Serving dishes made from fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients not only ensures the quality and taste but also supports local farmers and reduces the carbon footprint. Organic ingredients are healthier and often have a richer flavor.

• Offer alternatives to alcohol

While many guests enjoy a good drink, it’s essential to have non-alcoholic beverages available. This caters to non-drinkers, designated drivers, and those who prefer a lighter option.

• Explore foods from other cultures

Diversifying the menu with dishes from different cultures can offer a unique culinary experience for attendees. This caters to diverse audiences and introduces guests to new flavors and cuisines.

• Organize a self-serve buffet and DIY bar to stay within budget

Buffets allow guests to choose what they like, and a DIY bar can be a fun interactive experience. Both options can be cost-effective, ensuring you stay within budget while offering variety.

• Serve tapas instead of a full meal

Tapas, or small appetizers, are often enough to satisfy guests. They provide an array of options and flavors, making for an engaging dining experience without the cost and formality of a full meal.

• Ask about the caterer’s full service package

Understand what the caterer offers in their package. It might include setup, teardown, and even wait staff. Knowing this can help in budgeting and logistics.

Don’t:

• Forget classic crowd pleasers like grilled cheese sandwiches, burgers, and beer

Time-tested favorites like grilled cheese sandwiches, burgers, and beer always have takers. While it’s essential to offer unique items, these classics should find a place in your menu.

• Overlook guests’ eating restrictions

Dietary restrictions, whether for health, religious, or personal reasons, are common. Ensure your menu includes vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other options.

• Keep attendees standing in long lines to try food

A long wait can dampen the guest experience. Ensure smooth service, perhaps by having multiple serving stations or efficient staff, to prevent long queues.

• Forget to secure permits

 If serving alcohol or even just catering in certain venues, permits might be required. Overlooking this can lead to legal issues.

• Serve trendy and overpriced menu items

While it’s tempting to include the latest culinary trends, these can be expensive and not always to everyone’s taste. Balance your menu with both trendy and traditional dishes.

• Overspend on decorations

While aesthetics are essential, it’s the food that’s the star in catering. Allocate the budget wisely, ensuring the food quality isn’t compromised for elaborate decorations.