At your corporate events, it’s not always your presentations, your speeches, or your announcements that leave the biggest impact on guests – it’s the hospitality! Food and drink are invaluable aspects of an event’s success, which is why we’ve assembled these six key considerations when planning your event’s menu.
Consider your audience
This is probably the most important aspect of your menu – who will be eating? If you’re making a large networking event, or just having a team-building event for new staff, you’ll want to adjust your menu accordingly.
Some guests may expect fancier options, like cocktails or hors d’oeuvres, whilst your smaller staff sessions can benefit from buffet style foods. You can even spice things up with a unique meal, such as an afternoon tea box delivery, like the ones found at www.afternoonteabox.com.
Also consider allergies or dietary preferences, with veggie, vegan, or gluten-free options available for anyone that may need it.
Keep track of your schedule
Time of day is important for your menu, as most people don’t want three-course meals at 9am. Adjust to fit the time of day, providing lighter options earlier on.
Portion sizes
Building on our last point, make sure you manage portions effectively. At a networking event, people will be moving and mingling, and so having bitesize options prepared will often work best. For plated meals, make sure portions are adequate, but not excessive.
Variety
Having an eclectic selection is great for appealing to larger parties. Not just veggie options, but hot and cold foods, as well as different cultural foods, can go a long way in making your menu successful.
Drinks
Don’t forget, food is only half of the picture. Water alone won’t cut it, so try to include some juices, soft drinks, hot drinks, and – if appropriate – some alcohol.
Desserts
Everyone can make space for dessert, and some sweet treats will likely be the last thing your guests remember about the event, so make them count! Again, keep the portions adequate, as you don’t want your guests going home feeling sick!
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