When we’re planning a catered event, a few considerations will have to be covered if we want it to go on without a hitch. These basic factors are what we need to share with the caterer we’re hiring: one, the type of function; two, the number of guests we’ll have, adults or children; three, the food to be served; four, the budget; and five, pick up or delivery.
With that being said, let’s now dive into the nitty gritty of what should be done for the gathering to be a cut above the rest. Here are some tips for planning a catered event. These suggestions will be useful at every stage of the process, whether we’re preparing for a small gathering or a big one.
1. Style
Presentation is a crucial factor that we must decide on. Pick the style that best suits the occasion we have in mind. This will be tied up with the budget we’ve set aside for the occasion. Each has its pros and cons, but the most important thing is what’s appropriate.
- Buffet – This self-service arrangement is economical in terms of manpower. We won’t need the additional staff to serve those who have been invited. However, there are drawbacks, such as a long queue of guests at the buffet table and the monitoring of food temperature.
- Tray Pass – Offering hors d’oeuvres entails serving visitors a tray with food and drinks. The advantage here is there’s control over food servings and it’s a quicker food distribution procedure. The tray pass happens before the main course is served.
- Plated – This is used for sit-down parties where each visitor will be served separately, creating a more intimate setting. There won’t be any long lines to the food and you have full control over portions given. The food’s temperature can also be checked. Because of the extra employees, this is the most expensive style.
2. Menu
Consider the guests when planning the menu. If there will be a large number of teenagers or athletes, it would be advisable to increase what’s being served. In case you have vegans or vegetarians, it’ll be a considerate setting to have dishes for them labeled as “plant-based” or “no meat, poultry or seafood.”
Even better is to identify all the dishes, meat or not. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned host, it’s essential that you come up with a top-notch presentation. There’s an event catering in Fort Lauderdale that can help you in arriving at that level.
3. Prepare Ahead
The secret to hosting an event successfully is to prepare in advance. Make sure you finish as much as you can before the visitors arrive. Prepare cold meals in advance, chop fruit and vegetables, or set up the tables and cooking stations. When you do this, you’ll be able to give your full attention to the food and the visitors.
4. Food Safety
There are two general areas of concern when it comes to making sure that the food being served is safe:
- Food Temperature – Ensure a minimum temperature of 325 degrees Fahrenheit for all meats and seafood. All cold items must be maintained at or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cross Contamination – Use separate cutting boards when preparing cooked food, fresh produce, and raw food. The staff must constantly wash their hands and all the cooking utensils to be reused.
5. A Caterer Par Excellence
Organizing a successful party or special occasion is dependent on getting a professional outfit that knows the tips for planning a catered event by heart. Quality service can make your event memorable. They can go ahead with your table spread. You, on the other hand, can focus on how to liven up the gathering.
Need Help?
We can help you with your special family gathering, cocktail party, business function, Bar Mitzvah, and a whole lot more. The name to keep in mind is Tower Deli. Visit us at https://towerdeli.com/. View our catering menu and what you can order online. Call us for details at 954-452-8202.
