Choosing the best catering option for your event will help your guests to enjoy their day and remain energised, and will also form a positive lasting impression. This is crucial to the success of your event and will help you plan well-attended events in the future. Here are some key points to consider when selecting your catering.
What sort of event is it?
The first key question is to make sure that the catering is appropriate to the occasion. If it is a formal corporate event, a sit-down meal and a cocktail bar may be required. A morning meeting may require a breakfast platter and a tea and coffee break.
For day-long conferences and meetings, a buffet or grazing table at lunchtime is a great option. This allows guests freedom of choice over their food and portion sizes, and most importantly enables them to mingle and network with other attendees, rather than remain static.
In fact, some venues deliberately provide fewer chairs in order to encourage guests to circulate during breaks and mealtimes.
What are the latest trends in hospitality?
Like all other sectors, catering moves with the times. One of the most significant shifts in recent years is a focus on healthy options. It is now expected that there will be a platter of fresh fruit and the option of a side salad instead of fries. These not only provide long-lasting energy but also look great on a grazing table, providing a pop of colour.
There is also more focus on world foods, besides the standard fare of soup and sandwiches. Korean cuisine such as tofu stew, soy sauce seafood, and sweet crispy chicken are currently popular. Street foods such as tacos, wraps, burritos, and kebabs are another on-trend choice.
Consider special dietary requirements
It is important to be inclusive in the menus and accommodate a range of dietary preferences. Vegan and vegetarian options are now expected, and the caterers should be willing to provide alternative options for guests with allergies. It is helpful to ask attendees in advance if they have any dietary restrictions so that their needs can be catered for.
It is also important to take into consideration cultural sensitivities and preferences to make sure that everyone feels welcome.
A commitment to sustainability
Corporate organisations are keen to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and environmentally friendly practices. This extends to the choice of catering for the event. If possible, choose local companies who source their ingredients from local suppliers to reduce transportation and carbon emissions.
Check if the caterers use eco-friendly packaging such as recycled paper or card rather than single-use plastic, and if they have a policy to reduce food waste.
Remember that well-chosen catering that is plentiful and nutritious will mean that your guests stay energised throughout the day, encouraging them to remain positively engaged and get the most out of their time and effort. It will also reflect well on the event, helping to ensure that it is remembered in a positive light and boost future participation.
If you are looking for a Milton Keynes conference centre, please get in touch with us today.
