5 Recommendations on Preparing a Menu For Your Catering Event

Whether you're planning your own wedding reception, fundraising event for your organization, or anniversary celebration for your parents, you have an incredible number of decisions to make , including the location, theme, music, decor and even food. The menu you choose for your event might get confusing with all the options you can choose from and all the aspects you must consider. Here are a few tips to help you have a good start in your preparation process.

1. Set the budget.

A professional catering service offers a wide range of menu options that are suitable for various budgets. The caterer you choose should be able to offer some menu ideas that maximize the usage the budget you have set. Certain menu items are more expensive due to ingredients and the amount of time it takes to cook. It will save you and your caterer plenty of time if you have an understanding of the much you're willing to pay for meals.

2. Know your audience.

It's pretty evident that the menu and the amount of food that you serve at your teenage son's birthday celebration would differ from the meals you provide to your book club. In case you aren't familiar with your target audience sufficiently and you're not sure what they like, variety is key. Make sure you have a few choices to pick from, and make sure to include the least amount of vegetarian dish. If you're sure that children will be present you should include some kid-friendly dishes in the food menu. Be sure to inquire about any special dietary requirements as well as allergies. Remember that some foods, like shellfish and nuts, may cause your guests to be taken directly to ER.

3. Check that the menu is in line with the theme of the event.

Some people ask if a buffet dinner is tacky for a wedding reception. It's not a question of tacky or not. It's all about your overall style and the theme of your wedding. If you are planning a formal, high-end wedding reception, the buffet-style meal may look out of place. However when you are planning a hip and stylish party at the local art gallery and you want to host an "living room" style reception might be the best option. If you are planning an old-fashioned Greek or Russian wedding with a family atmosphere, a traditional dinner is usually the most effective. If your event has specific themes consider it a factor when planning your menu. Also, make sure that your food items are compatible. It's unlikely that you intend to blend fresh oysters with cheeseburgers.

4. Order the right amount of food.

You don't want your guests to be hungry, nor do you want to overindulge with food you serve and end up with a lot of leftovers. When you can, ensure that the guests RSVP on your invitation. It will help you to keep your costs in check, plan your menu accordingly and ensure you order the appropriate quantity of food. Take into consideration the time of your wedding reception, the duration and purpose. If you host your reception for your wedding between 7 and 9 pm, guests will expect dinner. If you do not provide one, you must manage the expectations of your guests accordingly. In your invitation, specify what kind of food will be offered (e.g. wine and cheese reception, cocktail reception, etc.)

5. catering New York menu Don't go by the personal tastes of yours.

We all commit this mistake. We believe that what we enjoy, others might also like. Don't let your personal taste get in the way while planning the menu for your event. You wouldn't want to serve a 100% seafood menu unless you know that everyone attending your function is as crazy about seafood as you are. And if you happen to be vegan and think pork chops to be disgusting it is a high likelihood that your guests not agree with you and prefer a good old-fashioned steak to 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 result in a positive return. Take the stress from your event planning, hire an expert.

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