How to Plan a Catering Event

If you’re trying to organize a catering event, you’re in luck! Foodie culture has never been bigger than it is today…and no one likes to be hungry .

There are a lot of options on the table (pun intended), so you have to get creative if you want to get noticed.

Catering events come in many forms. You can host an intimate wine tasting or a large international food festival.

What matters is that you leave a lasting impression on your guests. Something they can tell their friends about (and post on Instagram, of course).

So how do you make your catering event unforgettable?

That should give you a good start. Let’s look at how to plan a catering event.

1. Respond to your audience

The first step to a successful catering event is to consider the audience.

How many people will attend?

Is the event formal or informal?

Do the guests come from a particular background or industry?

People who attend a lot of business meetings, for example, will get tired of eating the same thing all the time . Healthcare professionals will appreciate a menu that includes healthy options.

Find out how you can impress your guests by being different. This will make your event memorable.

2. Make it exclusive

Everyone likes to feel special. A secret dinner in a small venue will instantly give your event an air of exclusivity.

Limited seating also creates a sense of urgency, which means your event will sell out faster (or guests will RSVP faster).

Create an experience that inspires, touches and is unforgettable Create an event

3. Find a great location

The venue of your catering event will play a crucial role in the presentation of the food. It is a good idea to rent a venue that reflects the theme of your event.

If you are more daring, it can also be interesting to do the opposite. A gourmet dinner in a rustic warehouse? Why not?

4. Hire a good caterer

This is an important point, since the caterer is responsible for the food and beverages. Consider the following points when shortlisting potential caterers :

There is not much information about communicating with your caterer. If you are unsure about what the food should be like, ask them for advice.

5. Presentation is key

Food and drinks are an added perk at most events. But when they’re the center of attention, attendees expect something more.

Make sure you add a pop of color to make it pop!

Presentation is almost as important as the food and drinks themselves. There are several ways you can make a good impression .

6. Balance the five flavors

Sweet, sour, bitter, salty and umami. Every Michelin star chef will attest that it’s ideal to include it all.

7. Diversify your menu

Once you’ve considered your guests’ background and dietary restrictions, it’s time to think about the menu.

Even if you love your food choices, it’s not certain that your guests will be as enthusiastic.

That’s why it’s helpful to offer them two different starters, main course and desserts. More, if you can manage it.

It’s also a good idea to have condiments separately so your guests can add whatever they want to their meal.

8. Source your food locally

Everyone loves locally sourced food . Globalization is a good thing, but too many places serve the same dishes. See if you can find local specialties that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.

9. Be environmentally aware

You may have noticed the sudden disappearance of plastic straws in restaurants across the UK. While they haven’t been officially outlawed, many restaurants are already taking proactive measures.

You can score points with your participants by doing the same thing. Swap out plastic straws for cardboard ones. Try to reduce your carbon footprint as much as possible.

10. Consider dietary restrictions

It is important to keep dietary restrictions in mind when planning the menu.

Some religions have restrictions on beef, pork and shellfish. Vegetarians and vegans won’t be happy with a meat-only buffet. And allergic reactions to nuts will definitely kill the party mood.

This doesn’t mean you should only cater to the minority of guests with dietary restrictions. But it’s always nice to be thoughtful and include options so everyone is included.