Catering Tips For Corporate Events

Catering for large, diverse groups of people is never an easy task. Individual tastes and culinary demands have to be met. At the same time, a suitable venue, together with all the bits and bobs associated with corporate event catering, have to be sourced within the framework of a budget.

Fortunately there are a number of traditional menu categories guaranteed to appeal:



The formal dinner

The formal dinner is by far the most traditional and usually encompasses a number of different courses. It’s generally the most expensive option as each course demands its own fine selection of china and cutlery.

Platinum Ring or Georgian fine bone china combined with Grecian or Kings Pattern cutlery are the ideal accompaniments. Glassware hire should concentrate solely on the finest crystal stemware such as Stendhal, Aquataine or Siena Crystal.

Don’t forget the table display. Silver candelabras, crystal flower vases and Perspex food display mirrors will all add style to the event. Furniture hire and linen hire have to be factored in, if not provided by the venue. If possible, source a local catering hire company for all your needs. Delivery costs will be a lot less and they’ll be close on hand to troubleshoot if necessary.

The finger buffet

The finger buffet is a more relaxed and cheaper way of catering for large corporate events. There’s no necessity for cutlery or formal place settings. The presentation of the food, however, is paramount. Select a range of Tableware china platters, dishes, ramekins and tapas bowls, fill them with colourful food and arrange them in an enticing fashion.

Guests are encouraged to mingle and eat, so furniture hire will be limited. Select comfortable chairs with padded seats.

The Barbecue

Barbecues are a big hit in the balmy summer months. Arguably the most informal of the corporate event menu categories, BBQ’s require kitchen equipment hire as well as the usual glassware, china and cutlery hire. Gas barbecues are probably the safest and easiest option but charcoal barbecues are more traditional. It would be a wise idea to hire hot cupboards and patio heaters in case of inclement weather.

Move in time with the latest food Trends

Remember that food trends evolve all the time so it’s imperative to follow the latest cuisine nuances. More traditional, home-made food is expected to grow in stature in 2010. Value for money, healthy foods and planet conscious eating will all be given prominence, so too will frozen food and no/low alcoholic drinks!