Tags – How to Choose a Food Menu for an Event
When hosting an event, there is a huge range of different elements to think about: from the venue and its decor to comfortable seating and entertainment.
But one thing a lot of people have strong opinions about is food; and that includes your event menu. All guests will remember an outstanding meal, but it’s almost guaranteed they won’t forget a bad one.
Hence, creating a food menu needs to be done with proper care, to ensure everyone leaves satisfied.
To help you get started, here are 4 considerations to keep in mind when choosing the perfect food menu for your event.
1. Start with the Details
Before you dive right in and start picking your caterers, you’ll want to create a list of all known event details, including the date, location and number of guests.
Doing this will help you narrow down possible options once you begin your research.
At the same time, you’ll want to keep in mind your venue and see if there’s anything your vendors should be aware of ahead of time. For example, you’ll want to tell them if your event will take place outdoors and how they will keep food warm. Will they be preparing it on or off site?
Simply, give the caterer all the details relevant to your overall vision so they can work with you to create a realistic menu within your budget.
2. Stick to your Budget
Whilst you want to make sure your guests enjoy a good meal, you also want to make sure you don’t go bankrupt trying to keep their bellies happy!
So before making your meal selections, review your budget and give this number to your caterer which will help them to suggest menu options that accommodate your guests while keeping it affordable.
In addition, you will need to ask your potential catering company about any additional costs, such as labor or service charges. Knowing all the costs upfront will eliminate nasty surprises down the road.
3. Consider Special Dietary Needs
Knowing your guests’ dietary needs is super important when choosing the food menu for your event.
Often, certain allergies, medical conditions or religious beliefs prevent guests from eating certain types of food.
As such, when sending out your invites you may want to add an allergy or dietary restriction section so you don’t neglect this vital information when speaking with caterers.
As you create your menu, make sure you can make enough food selections to accommodate everyone’s needs – there’s nothing worse than showing up to an event and you’re unable to eat!
4. Consider Event Type
It’s likely your caterer will ask you what type of event you’re having so they can determine what types of foods should be considered.
For example, if it’s a black tie event, you may want delicate entrees whereas if it’s a more casual party vibe, they may consider finger foods.
Moreover, the venue will also play a role in your food choice too, i.e. is it a formal venue where guests will be eating at a table or more of an interactive space where it will be easier to grab food off trays carried by waiters?
Deciding whether you need passed appetisers, a buffer or a plated service will determine your food menu, and be clear on whether you want to offer fixed meals or if a la carte is best.
Finishing Thoughts
Choosing the right food menu for your event will take some time and require some effort.
However, if you keep these above points in mind, it should make your search a whole lot easier.
Overall, consider your budget, talk to your guests about their requirements and find a caterer who can create a menu with you and all of your details in mind.
Please get in touch to find out more.
In the meantime, check out our catering services for your next event.