Event catering: Choosing the best can seem daunting... Let us help you.
When it comes to event planning, food and drinks are always a standout feature. No matter how glamorous the venue or how good the entertainment is, if the catering is disappointing or just not the right fit for your event, your guests WILL notice. If you’re planning a large scale event professional catering is essential. Here is your comprehensive guide on how to select the perfect UK caterer for your event.
Event catering is an umbrella term that captures the art of designing a menu, sourcing, creating and serving meals and drinks to guests at any type of event. It’s a chameleon-like service, changing and adapting to fit the size, budget, style and unique requirements of your event, be it a big corporate party or more intimate fine-dining gala lunch.
Event catering is not just about cooking – it requires well-honed skills in logistics, budget management, communication and customer service among so many others. Good event caterers are not only culinary maestros, creating delicious food to delight guests, they look after the entire food and drink experience from brief to execution. Problem solvers extraordinaire, masters of logistics & planning, with second-to-none customer facing skills.
When you work with a professional caterer, such as The Occasional Kitchen, you’re investing in a high-level of expertise, refined over 15 years. You’re ensuring that all aspects of your event catering are taken care of by the experts, giving you total peace of mind.
The magic of a well-organised event lies not just in the decor or entertainment, but also in the quality of food and the design of the menu – delivering dishes, canapes and drinks that will hit exactly the right note with your guests, AND that fits your budget. An exceptional catering experience can take your event to another level, transforming it from ordinary to remarkable.
In the corporate sphere, the role of catering is crucial. The quality of the catering at your event is a reflection of your organisation’s standards, it’s attention to detail and the value it puts on the attendees. Just as the quality of your products or services speaks volumes about your company, the standard of food and drink you serve at your events sends a powerful message to your attendees. Therefore, exceptional catering, such as that provided by The Occasional Kitchen, can take your corporate image to the next level and make a positive impression on your clients, partners and employees. On the flip side, a ‘meh’ catering experience can even damage your company’s reputation.
Catering done right catering isn’t just about keeping your attendees fed and watered. It’s an integral part of the overall experience, one that can create a lasting impression. Therefore, when planning your next event, remember to give the catering the attention it rightly deserves. You might be surprised at the powerful impact a well-catered event can have!
Choosing your event caterer can be overwhelming but worry not! Here are some useful tips to help you make the best choice:
Experience is critical. A caterer with a strong history in handling large-scale event catering can navigate the unique hurdles your event might pose. Find a caterer who has a proven track record with events like yours.
Variety is the spice of life and is so true when it comes to your menu Ensure your caterer offers a diverse range of menu choices, catering for all dietary requirements and preferences.
Of course, brilliant service and presentation are both vital. The team of your chosen caterer should exhibit professionalism, friendliness, and attentiveness. The visual appeal of the food plays an essential role too, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Always remember to do your due diligence. Seek out reviews and testimonials from past clients to gauge the caterer’s reputation. A quality caterer won’t hesitate to provide references if you ask for them.
Last but not least, consider cost. Request detailed quotations from several caterers to get a clear comparison of prices. Make sure the quotes encompass everything, right from the price of food and beverages to staffing costs and any additional charges for things like overtime, set up/take down, set design and decor.
Don’t feel daunted by the task of selecting a caterer. With these tips in hand, you’re well-equipped to make an informed choice and ensure that your event’s catering is in capable hands. And remember, a company like The Occasional Kitchen, with its varied menu options and impeccable service, can undoubtedly make your event an unforgettable experience for your guests.
Once you’ve selected the ideal caterer for your event, the next phase is planning and co-ordination. It’s all about ensuring the catering service is tailor-made to suit your event and leaves a lasting impression on your guests. Here’s a quick rundown of steps to help you organise the catering for your event:
Spend some time delving into your caterer’s menu and service offerings. This knowledge will not only enable you to make wise decisions about your event’s catering but also ensure that the caterer can meet all your needs and preferences. Make sure you look at lots of delicious menus
Make sure to have a transparent conversation with your caterer about every facet of your event. Convey the nature of your event, the number of attendees, dietary restrictions, if any, and the budget. This information is vital for the caterer to provide an exceptional service.
If possible, invite your caterer for a tour of the event venue. It gives them an opportunity to acquaint themselves with the event location, comprehend its layout, and accordingly make the necessary arrangements.
A few days before your event, check all details with your caterer. This should include the final headcount, chosen menu items, and the timeline of service.
Choosing the right caterer, such as The Occasional Kitchen, is just the beginning. It’s equally important to work hand in hand with your provider to ensure that they understand your vision and can deliver a catering experience that truly complements your event, reflects you or your brand and will delight your guests. Good luck with your planning!
