Five Tips about Organizing a Menu For the Catering Celebration

Whether you're planning your own wedding reception, a fundraiser event for your business or an anniversary celebration for your parents, there are an incredible number of decisions to make including themes, venue music, décor, and food. Making the menu for your party can be overwhelming with all the choices you have available to you and the various considerations you need to be aware of. Here are some tips that can help you get started in your planning process.

1. Create a budget.

Every professional catering business offers a range of menu options suitable for different budgets. Your caterer ought to be able to provide some suggestions for menus that will maximize the use on your funds. Some items on the menu cost more due to the ingredients used and the time it takes to prepare. You'll save yourself and your caterer a lot of time if you've got an idea of how much money you're willing for food.

2. Know your audience.

It's fairly obvious that the menu and the quantity of food you serve at your son's birthday party will be quite different from the meal you offer for your reading group. When you're not sure of your guests well enough it is important to offer a variety. Be sure to have plenty of alternatives to pick from, ensure that you have at least one vegetarian option. If you are certain that children will be in attendance, arrange some kids-friendly items on the menu. Ask about any special dietary needs and food allergies. Be aware that certain food items, like shellfish and nuts, could take your guests straight to ER.

3. Make sure that menu fits the theme of the event.

People sometimes ask whether buffets are uninspiring for a wedding reception. It's not an issue of whether or not it's tacky. It's all about the the overall theme and style of your event. If you're planning a formal, luxurious wedding reception, then a buffet style meal might be odd. On the other hand, if you have a trendy and chic event at your local art gallery, it is possible to have a "living room" style reception could be the ideal choice. For the traditional Greek and Russian wedding, a family style dinner is typically the best. If your wedding has a particular theme to it you should take that into factor when planning your menu. Also, make sure that your food items are compatible. It's unlikely that you want to mix fresh oysters and cheeseburgers.

4. Order the right amount of food.

You don't want your guests to be hungry or to overindulge with food you serve and end up with a lot of leftovers. When you can, ensure that your guests RSVP at your invite. It will help you to keep your costs in check prepare your menu in advance and ensure you order the appropriate quantity of food. Be aware of the time of your event, the duration, and the reason for it. If you plan to host your wedding reception between 7 and 9 pm, your guests will be looking forward to a dinner. And if you don't offer one, manage your guests' expectations according to their needs. Include in your invitation the type of meal will be served (e.g. the wine reception or a cocktail reception etc.)

5. Don't be influenced by what you like to do.

We all make this mistake. We assume that whatever we like, other people would enjoy as well. Don't let your own personal preferences hinder you from making the menu for your party. It's not a good idea to offer an all-fish menu unless you are certain that everyone who attends your event is as passionate about the sea as you. And if you happen to be vegan and find pork chops appalling it is a high likelihood corporate catering menu that your guests not agree with you and prefer traditional steaks over Tofu Cacciatore.

A bonus tip is to employ a reputable catering company! Do your research before signing the contract. Review reviews, ask for recommendations and set up an appointment. The time you spend looking for the right caterer will pay off. Remove the stress from the planning of your event by hiring an experienced professional.

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