Planning a corporate event for a large group can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, especially with diverse taste preferences and special diets to consider. An experienced corporate catering service can help take care of the catering menu, beverage selection, staff, equipment, and any food-related logistics for the big day. However, there are a few key steps to keep in mind when organising the event to ensure it runs smoothly and leaves all attendees satisfied.
1. It's all about the preparation
Sharing as much information as possible with your caterer in advance is crucial. A good caterer will be better equipped to serve your needs when contacted early, whether it is a multi-day event or a client lunch. Essential considerations include the event's type, time of day, budget, location, number of guests, the event's length, and preferences for the corporate menu. Most corporate caterers are flexible and can provide a bespoke service, and diverse catering services like Feedr will have plenty of expertise and ideas for you to draw upon. Moreover, don't forget to ask your guests about any dietary requirements beforehand, so that there are great food options for everyone. You could consider engaging the services of a dedicated event manager to ensure the event runs smoothly and professionally, particularly as the logistical requirements expand with the group numbers.
2. Think about style and theme
Once you have confirmed your guest list, it's essential to consider the event's style. Are you leaning more towards a formal affair, or maybe a casual gathering? Ensure that the event catering you choose is appropriate and suitable for your event style. Finger foods, canapes, and grazing tables are great options that can feed a crowd and are easy to shape around any style. From gourmet cured meats and cheeses to catering classics like mini pies and pastries, there is bound to be something for any theme. A pizza party is also one fantastic option since it caters to many dietary requirements and can provide lots of food.
3. Work out quantities
Calculating the amount of food you need to cater to a large group can be challenging. You want to find that sweet spot between not having enough and having too much food. To avoid food waste, you could support sustainable caterers and donate any consumable food to organisations like City Harvest. Feedr's daily office meals service is another solution to avoid food wastage among ongoing events. Everyone can choose their meals from the set menu, and each dish will arrive labeled with the individual names, dish names, and ingredients.
4. In some cases, less is more
While a five-course sit-down meal may be impressive for a boardroom dining occasion, a more casual affair could be more intimate and practical. An American-style barbecue, a Mexican fiesta, a large daytime garden brunch, or a classy co*cktail reception could be the trendy, fuss-free solution. Fresh finger foods like Vietnamese Banh Mi rolls or Thai salad boxes could enhance your menu's flavors. An experienced corporate caterer will suggest delicious menus that can be executed flawlessly, where quality trumps quantity.
5. Focus on efficiency and organisation
Buffet catering and food stations are the perfect way to cater to a large group efficiently, effectively, and affordably. Use themed food stations to tell a story, such as a saloon-style grill station, Midsummer's Night Dream-themed dessert bar, Secret Garden co*cktail station, or pop-up-style Mexican finger food stalls. Having separate stations, preferably with dedicated chefs and staff, makes service more focused and efficient. It allows the caterer to cook dishes on-site and reduce waste while saving you money in the long run. By removing complicated table service from the equation, guests can control their portions, select their own food, dine at their pace, and encourage mingling while getting to eat right away.
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