Know Your Guest Preferences
Understanding the profile of your guest, this allows Jane to begin considering what menu options to offer. The following will help you better plan to meet your guests' needs:
Older groups of attendees may prefer a milder menu.
Attendees concerned about health may prefer more seafood and vegetable options.
Younger or middle-aged attendees may prefer spicier, more adventurous meals.
Incorporate Local, Seasonal and Fresh Items
Jane is a champion of the "locavore" movement, meaning that she prefers to use food harvested within the immediate Indiana area. When selecting the menu, you should consider how time of year will play a large factor in determining food and beverage. Take into consideration which items are in season for spring or winter menus. Jane is also adamant about incorporating fresh seafood or regionally grown produce.
Anticipate Special Needs
Before any event, it is critical for an Jane and her staff to find out if any of the guests have a special need so that we can address those needs prior to the event. Considerations include:
Food allergies, Religious requirements, Dietary restrictions
Provide Menu Choices
Anyone hosting an event should offer several choices so that all guests will be pleased with what's available. Some general guidelines:
Offer at least two choices of entrees.
Offer 2 salad dressing options.
Serve all condiments on the side.
Offer two dessert options: one very indulgent, one healthy.
Select a Menu that Fits the Event Schedule
Sometimes the clock will be the greatest guide to determining the menu for an event. Some examples:
Box lunches are best if you call ahead or order at least 30 minutes in advance.
Plated meals usually requires at least 1.5 hours.
Buffets may be finished in about 1 hour.
Cocktail receptions require a minimum of 1 hour before dinner.
Working breakfasts or lunches should incorporate menu items that can hold up for longer periods of time than others.
Final Presentation of Food and Beverage
We eat with our eyes and our nose before tasting it. Whether it's served plated or buffet, a catered meal should visually colorful and fragrant. Therefore, we take great pride in the presentation of food should make your guests want to eat it. This means linens and decorations that complement the theme of the meal. Learn more about our tablescaping service
Contact us to get started in planning your upcoming event!