Desert Dine - Checklist of Things to Know Before Confirming a Catered Menu
Organizing a catered event can be rather complicated. There are several aspects that you, as the planner, have to first ascertain before you can commit to any specifics. The same applies to your chosen menu as well. You’ll need to be sure of these details so that you can communicate them to your caterer and be assured that your needs are met.
In this article, we’ll provide you with all the details that will affect your menu choice. You can use the information below as your guide, and through it, guarantee that your catered event is a success.
Expected Headcount
You need to know how many people will be attending the event. While this may be difficult to know for sure, it helps to have a general idea of how many people you will expect to come. Ask for an RSVP when sending out your invitations, and make a buffer to accommodate any surprise additions to the guest list.
In doing so, you gain an estimation of how much food you will need. By extension, you will also know how much variety should be included in terms of food and drink offerings.
Time of the Event
Different times of the day call for different types of food and drinks. So unless you’re okay with serving pancakes for dinner, then you have to know the exact time you will be expecting guests to arrive. Make sure you include this information in your invitation and work together with your caterer to design a menu that’s suitable for the time of day.
Duration of the Program
Additionally, you also want to know how long the event will take. This will inform your decision as to how the food will be served to your guests. For example, if the program is long enough, you might want to consider a plated menu as the caterer will have ample time to prepare for such. In contrast, buffet-style service would be a better choice if time is limited.Additionally, take note of times when food shouldn’t be served, so you can tell your caterer about it beforehand.
Layout of the Venue
The layout of the event venue should also be taken into consideration. This will affect the capacity of your caterer to bring food around the venue and serve it to your guests. If the delivery area is far from the event venue, for instance, your caterer should know about that so they can make the necessary arrangements.
Your Budget
Your budget is also a major factor. Obviously, this will determine the quality and quantity of the food you will be serving. Find out from whoever is providing the funds how much money you have at your disposal. This way, you can find the best caterer that’s suited to your budget. Take note, however, that quality caterers are available at any price point. You just need to take the time to find them.
Special Dietary Concerns
Finally, you also need to be considerate of your guests’ special needs. Whether they have specific food allergies, religious restrictions, or any other type of special dietary needs, it is your job as the organizer to get this information and relay it to your caterer. Forgetting to do so means that some of your guests might not have anything to eat.
Conclusion
We hope this information can serve you well so that your job as an organizer is made easier, and your guests leave the event satisfied and happy.We are a professional catering company in Palm Springs CA. If you need delicious food to make your catered event a surefire success, get in touch with us today and we’ll be happy to help.
