Do you have an event to plan in the Twin Cities area, but aren’t sure where to start? It may seem overwhelming, but with a few simple steps, you can make it more manageable and have an event that everyone will be talking about for years to come. All you need to do is follow these simple catering tips and realize you aren’t in this alone if you have the right catering professionals, like Sterling Catering, to help with the planning.
Plan Ahead and Be Specific
Waiting until the last minute to figure out event catering details, like who’s coming and if there are any allergies, is a recipe for disaster. It will only create more stress for you and will make the day harder. Here are some of the most important catering tips you can do that will make your event planning a breeze.
Budget
Start with setting up a budget for your event catering. Determine how much you feel comfortable allocating for the venue, caterer, and vendors. Having a dollar amount in mind when booking will help you keep focused on your goals.
Determine How Many Guests are Coming
Speaking of guests, if you’re hosting an event, Sterling Catering can help you determine how much food you’ll need to accommodate everyone. While it’s important to have a specific number, Sterling Catering will ensure there will be the right amount of food so that all guests are well-fed and satisfied without having an abundance of leftovers.
Book in Advance
Don’t wait until the last minute to book your caterer and venue, especially if you want the best services in the Minneapolis & St. Paul area. Sterling Catering, a trusted catering company, can provide you with exceptional catering services for your event. It’s important to secure your date ahead of time to avoid any disappointments, particularly during peak seasons.
Hiring the Right Caterer
A full-service caterer like Sterling Catering can save you time, as well as decrease your stress level because they take care of all aspects such as food and drink for your event. It’s even better if your caterer is familiar with the venue because they have been tried and tested, avoiding unforeseen hiccups during the logistics of the day. Sterling Catering has several venue partners we often work with, such as FIVE Event Center, Watson Block, and Green Acres Event Center, just to name a few. We are happy to recommend these preferred venues to ensure a smooth and seamless event.
Be Specific
When communicating with your caterer, specificity is key. Paying attention to even the smallest details can make all the difference in ensuring a successful event. One crucial aspect to discuss is allergies and dietary restrictions. It’s important to inform your caterer of any special dietary needs your guests may have as early as possible. This will allow them ample time to prepare and plan accordingly.
Additionally, discussing specific menu items and serving sizes can help the caterer tailor their offerings to meet your specific needs. Whether it’s a formal dinner or a casual gathering, being clear and specific in your communication with your caterer will help ensure that your event is a success.
Select Your Style of Catering Services
Once you iron out some of the finer details, it’s time to determine what style of event catering you’re interested in. We use three main styles here at Sterling Catering: buffet, plated, or family-style.
Buffet
Buffets are self-serve. For a buffet, there will be a long table set up with food in chafing dishes to keep the food hot. Guests will then start at one end of the buffet and dish themselves up as they advance down the table. This is ideal for those who want a wide range of food, so everyone can choose exactly what they like.
Plated
A plated meal is preselected and served to each individual. This is a popular choice for more formal events such as weddings. No one has to get up, and all the dishes will be delivered directly to the table.
Family-Style
The dishes are beautifully plated on serving platters and delivered to each table. Guests are able to dish themselves up from each platter and pass it along to the next guest. This style allows everyone to choose their favorite type of food, similar to a buffet, but you don’t have to get up to get it.
Plan a Delicious, Memorable Menu of Food and Drinks
Once you have planned out your catering style, it’s time to select your menu. You’ll want your guests to remember this, so make it as memorable as possible.
Choose to follow a theme or choose from a wide selection of dishes, so everyone has something they’ll enjoy. Your drinks and desserts should complement the rest of your food as well. With our professional catering services, we can guide you in making these critical catering decisions for your event.
Create a Memorable Culinary Experience for Your Guests with Sterling Catering
Whether you’re planning a corporate event or a social gathering, the food you serve can make or break the experience for your guests. With Sterling Catering, you can create a memorable culinary experience that will leave your guests raving about your event for weeks to come.
Our team of experienced chefs and catering professionals will work with you to develop a customized menu that suits your preferences and budget. We use only the freshest ingredients and ensure that your guests receive the highest quality food. From traditional favorites to international delicacies, our menu offers a wide range of options to suit every taste and dietary requirement.
Don’t settle for mediocre catering that will leave your guests disappointed. Contact Sterling Catering today to learn more about our services and to book your next event. Let us help you create a culinary experience that your guests will remember for years to come.