Whether you're planning your own wedding reception, fundraising event for your company or an anniversary celebration for your parents, there are an incredible number of decisions to consider, such as themes, venue, music, decor, and food. Making the menu for your party can be overwhelming with all the choices you can choose from 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 choices that can be adapted to 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 how long 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 than the food you serve for your reading group. When you're not sure of your audience 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 item. If you know that children will be present you should include some kid-friendly dishes to the buffet. Inquire about special dietary requirements and allergies. Keep in mind that some foods, like shellfish and nuts, may cause your guests to be taken right to ER.
3. Be sure the menu matches the theme of your event.
Some people ask if a buffet dinner is inappropriate for wedding receptions. It's not an issue of tacky or catering New York menu not. It all depends on overall style and theme of the event. If you're planning a formal, luxurious wedding reception, then buffets may seem out of place. On the other hand If you're planning an elegant and trendy party at the local art gallery and you want to host it is possible to have a "living room" style reception could be the ideal choice. For the traditional Greek or Russian wedding, a family style dinner is typically the best. If your wedding has a particular theme to it consider it a consideration while planning a menu. Be sure your food items are compatible. You probably don't intend to blend fresh oysters with cheeseburgers.
4. You must order the proper amount of food.
It isn't a good idea for your guests to go hungry or to go overboard in the quantity of food and have excessive leftovers. If you can, have sure that your guest RSVP to your invitation. It will assist you in stay within your budget and plan your menu accordingly, and order the right amount of food. Consider the timing of your celebration, its length, and the purpose. If you are hosting your reception from 7 to 9 pm, guests will expect dinner. If you do not provide one, then manage the expectations of your guests accordingly. Specify in your invitation what kind of food will serve (e.g. champagne reception with wine, a wine tasting, etc.)
5. Don't go by your personal preferences.
We all make this error. We think that whatever we like, other people will also enjoy. Don't let your own personal preferences influence your making the menu for your party. You shouldn't serve an all-fish menu unless you are certain that everyone who attends your event is as passionate about the sea as you. If you happen to be vegan and find pork chops appalling it is a high likelihood that your guests not agree with you and prefer traditional steaks over Tofu Cacciatore.
A bonus tip is to employ a reputable catering company! Make sure you do your homework before signing the contract. Review reviews, ask for recommendations and make an appointment. The time you invest in looking for the right caterer will result in a positive return. Eliminate the stress of the planning of your event by hiring a professional.