Best Tips to Customize Menus for Your Event Catering
It’s All About the Right Food for the Right People.
You can prepare the BEST food in town, but (some of) your special guests may still dislike it.
Yes, I have seen this happen many times in my 15-year career as a personal chef for event catering. My clients would source high-quality ingredients and handle all the arrangements, but they would be surprised on the day of the event when they saw guests leaving food on their plates.
Think about their wasted time, money, and effort.
An average event catering (for up to 20 persons) costs you something between $2.5K to $4K. And if your guests leave hungry, your THOUSANDS of bucks and loads of time go to waste.
I don’t want this to happen to you. EVER.
So, in this blog, I will share my 5 tips for customizing your event catering menu to make it irresistible (to eat) for your clients.
Stick to the end because I have also shared a bonus tip for you.
1.Get an Idea of What Type of Menu Aligns with Your Catering Theme
Align your menu with the event theme to create a cohesive and memorable experience. Guests appreciate when the food complements the event’s vibe and purpose.
For example:
- If you’re throwing a Garden Party, fresh salads, light sandwiches, and fruity desserts would complement the outdoor, casual setting.
- For a Corporate Gala, elegant hors d’oeuvres, gourmet entrees, and sophisticated desserts fit the formal atmosphere.
- At a Rustic Wedding, comfort foods like roasted meats, hearty sides, and homemade pies blend best with a rustic, cozy ambiance.
Pro Tip: Always think about seasonal ingredients. They taste better and support the theme by providing fresh, relevant dishes.
2.Know your Guests’ Preferences and Restrictions
Some of your guests are not restricted to anything but might prefer one dish over another. Others may have specific restrictions, like gluten-free meals or allergies.
You’ve heard it and probably already know this, as this is so obvious.
But how do you know your guests’ preferences and restrictions?
Here are my tips:
- Include a Dietary Restriction/Preferences Box Within the Invitation Card:
Ask guests to fill out their dietary needs when they RSVP (respond if you please). This approach is direct and easy for everyone.
- Roll Out an Online Survey/Questionnaire or Ask Questions in Chat:
Send a quick survey via email or chat groups. It’s efficient and provides clear information on guests’ preferences.
- Ask Directly in Group Chats:
If catering a corporate event or a wedding with a chat group, simply ask members about their favorite foods. Casual conversations can yield useful insights.
- Note Guests with Allergies and Inform the Catering Team:
Keep a list of guests with allergies and share it with your catering team. This step is crucial for avoiding any health issues.
Pro Tip: Be polite when asking about restrictions. Some people might feel sensitive about their dietary needs.
3.Include ever-green F&B options and offer flexibility.
If you are not 100% sure about your guests’ preferences and restrictions, here is what you can do:
- Offer dishes that cater to a wide range of preferences and dietary restrictions. Grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, and mixed green salads are always popular. Fresh fruit platters, cheese assortments, and gluten-free grains like quinoa are safe bets. For beverages, water, herbal teas, and non-alcoholic sparkling drinks are universally accepted.
- Provide multiple serving styles to accommodate different needs.
A buffet allows guests to choose what they like and avoid what they can’t eat. Another option is the “duet plate,” where two main dishes are served, giving guests a choice. Offering a family-style service, where dishes are shared at the table, also works well for casual events.
- Clearly label dishes that contain common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.
Use separate serving utensils for allergen-free items to prevent cross-contamination. Simple signage can help guests make informed choices without worry.
4.Keep your Menu Simple; Don’t Experiment with New Dishes
One of the grave mistakes I have noticed when my clients discuss their menu with me is that they overcomplicate it. They try to be creative with dishes and want something ‘NEW’ for their guests. I don’t blame their intentions; they just want to entertain their guests.
But the problem is that it often goes wrong when you try to get creative and mix ingredients to get a new flavor.
Creativity with arrangements and presentation is okay, but I always suggest simplicity when it comes to dishes.
3.Be Practical and Consider the Logistics
Some foods are too delicate, messy, or temperature-sensitive to stay fresh for long.
Avoid items like soufflés or ice cream that can’t withstand delays. Choose dishes that hold well over time, such as pasta, roasted meats, and vegetable medleys.
Consider preparation and serving times. Dishes that take too long to cook may cause delays. If cooking off-site, consider transportation time and methods to keep food hot or cold.
Pro Tip: Choose dishes that can be easily reheated without losing quality. This flexibility helps if there are unexpected delays in your event schedule.
Bonus tip: Choose a caterer who knows how to cater to specific needs
The caterer you choose plays a crucial role in the success of your event. They bring your planning, ideas, and efforts to life. Selecting a skilled caterer who understands specific dietary needs is essential.
Discuss your menu, guest preferences, and any special requirements before hiring a personal chef. A professional caterer will listen, ask relevant questions, and provide helpful suggestions. Their experience can transform your event, making it memorable and stress-free.
Look for a caterer with a proven track record in handling diverse dietary needs.
Schedule a tasting session to sample the menu and discuss any adjustments. This hands-on approach helps gauge the caterer’s skills and compatibility with your event’s vision.
Livegreenspdx Gluten-Free Event Catering Menu
Customized Event Catering = Well-Fed and Satisfied Guests
The end goal of any event catering is to feed your guests generously and satisfy them. The food and its presentation are among the most important things to make your event successful. There is no second opinion on that.
When you arrange an event next time, keep the customization tips from this blog in mind.
If you want to discuss your event in detail, message us.
