Customizing catering begins with decisions that influence the guest experience and set the tone for the entire event. Customization includes things like tailored menus, custom drink lists, and personalized decor that define the event’s style and service. Here are a few tips on how to customize your catering services:
Customize Corporate Plans
For larger groups, corporate catering plans include plated or boxed meal formats. Buffet service at large corporate events may include plated salads, sandwiches, and chafing-dish entrees. Options include small office luncheons and separate plans for multi-shift workplace meal service.
A barbecue-themed outdoor menu might feature grilled foods, fresh salads, and fruit platters for summer luncheons. Align corporate lunch options with the occasion; deli sandwiches work well for meetings, while plated meals suit more formal presentations. Businesses tailor meal service plans with caterers for midday lunches, fundraisers, and employee meals served during different shifts.
Personalize Wedding Flow
Wedding reception packages vary and may include everything from beverage service to hors d’oeuvres and a sit-down dinner. Couples adjust the reception timeline and menu to match a plated dinner, buffet, or cocktail-style format. For wedding receptions, beverage selections support the caterer’s service plan. Cocktail, wine, and beer selections expand the beverage menu with a wider variety.
In plated service, meals are plated in the kitchen and served to seated guests at the table. Staff serve plated meals, with menu options tailored to the wedding reception. A personalized hors d’oeuvres selection, tailored to the couple’s preferences, can be part of the caterer’s service plan. Caterers also handle buffet, bar, and sit-down dinner service for wedding receptions.
Select Seasonal Options
A caterer can provide a buffet with year-round dishes and seasonal menu items. Selections include seasonal pick-up buffets for holiday parties and related events. Seasonal selections from caterers may be available for social, corporate, and wedding events, depending on the company and package. To reflect the time of year, caterers may feature dishes such as spring vegetable medleys or pumpkin soup. This selection of seasonal dishes keeps core offerings consistent across catered events while allowing variations for each event, while keeping it with a theme.
Combine Bar and Decor
Combining bar service with floral and decor services creates a consistent look across the bar and event space. Bar packages and customized floral and décor options can be designed to complement the event’s overall aesthetic. Coordinating beverage service with décor elements creates a more cohesive and polished presentation. In some cases, vendors integrate bar setups with the venue’s style and layout to make sure everything feels visually consistent.
Coordinate Venue Logistics
With the venue coordinator and planner, caterers coordinate access and setup details. Before service, staffing, beverage service responsibilities, and the timeline can be confirmed. Staff confirms table placement and delivery times with venue managers. Coordinating setup and timing while planning traffic patterns keeps meal delivery on schedule and guests moving efficiently during the event. A site visit to the selected venue clarifies whether the layout accommodates meal setup and restroom access.
Explore Catering Services
Caterers work with you to offer tailored meal solutions. They provide buffets, meal planning, and full-scale dining at your business location. When planned properly, professional services from caterers can be integrated into your everyday office routine and requirements. Contact and consult a catering service provider to create a detailed plan for your corporate dining needs.
