Successful event catering, regardless of the event
Catering is a crucial aspect of the success of any event. Besides the food, the overall experience of the participants is what will be remembered. This includes creativity, ingredient selection, presentation, service, and decoration. Therefore, it is essential to choose the right catering formula for your event. In this article, you will learn the best practices to ensure your event catering satisfies the attendees.
The outcome of an event can sometimes depend on small details, and catering is one such detail that can have a significant impact on the final result. Therefore, it is essential to understand the expectations and context of the event's audience. Are you catering for a small committee or a large gathering? Is the event taking place during the day or evening? Is it a themed gala event? By identifying these factors, you can better define the most appropriate catering options to suit your needs.
1: Meetings in smaller groups
When it comes to business or work meetings, maintaining productivity is crucial. To achieve this, eating healthy meals prepared with fresh ingredients is essential. Catering must therefore meet several requirements:
- Easy-to-eat, sit-down or stand-up dishes such as luncheon sandwiches, poké bowls or a healthy lunch.
- Fast, punctual service is also essential
- A dedicated area for catering, either directly in the meeting room or in a dedicated area nearby to ensure that timing is respected.
2: Conferences and congresses
Conferences are often larger and more conducive to networking. Self-service formulas are preferred to allow participants to move around freely.
The catering should include:
- A room or lobby large enough to accommodate the catering service, with furniture such as tables and chairs.
- Sufficient technical facilities to provide the service: electrical sockets nearby, sufficient ventilation/air conditioning, etc.
- A varied, easy-to-transport walking buffet menu. Did you know that BluePoint offers several walking buffet options? The 'Street food classic' contains typical street food dishes such as burgers and hot dogs. The 'Walking Dinner' offers a wide selection of hot and cold dishes, as well as desserts.
Discover all the catering formulas and spaces offered by BluePoint Brussels
3. Gala evenings and staff parties
Gala events typically take place in the evening, which allows for greater opportunities to showcase culinary creativity. Attendees tend to focus more closely on the quality of the food, the level of service, and the overall atmosphere. As a result, they may be more discerning in their assessment of the catering. Therefore, it is essential that the evening catering is flawless in the following areas:
- A menu highlighting the Chef's signature creativity and sense of aesthetics
- A fully-experienced front-of-house team
- Careful decoration, possibly accompanied by branding elements
- An original dessert buffet to end the meal on a high note
Looking for a unique atmosphere? Take a look at BluePoint Antwerp's gala rooms
4. Barbecues and other summer activities
With the return of good weather, it's time to plan outdoor activities. Whether you're organizing a small after-work gathering with colleagues or a large event, the catering menu should be healthy, diverse, and easy to eat while standing. To ensure smooth service at your event, it's important to pay close attention to the following details:
- Global logistics and respect for the cold chain
- Back-up options in the event of adverse weather conditions
- Plenty to drink and finger food-sized catering
5. Adapt the formula to your audience
When selecting a catering formula for an event, it is crucial to inquire about your guests' dietary restrictions and preferences beforehand. This not only showcases your professionalism but also aids the chef in avoiding last-minute menu improvisation. However, it is important to note that you may not be able to fulfil every expectation. Based on the available budget and the caterer's flexibility, suggest solutions that satisfy the guests' demands without compromising the overall quality of the service:
- Plan for vegan and/or vegetarian options:
It's becoming increasingly essential to offer a plant-based and/or vegan option for guests who follow this diet. There's nothing worse than depriving your guests of a meal for lack of forethought. There are plenty of non-vegan alternatives, even at a barbecue.
Table signage at buffets can also be useful to make the experience easier for participants.
Come and enjoy a quality gourmet lunch during your business meetings at the BluePoint in Liège
- Find out about allergens:
Lactose-free and/or gluten-free menus are also becoming an increasingly important part of the equation. Even if the people themselves are often careful about what they eat, it would be a shame to penalise them for their experience. Find out in advance about any food allergies or intolerances and the number of covers involved.
By alternating ingredients, it is now possible to offer menus that are both tasty and allergen-free.
- Offer an attractive selection of drinks, including non-alcoholic ones:
Don't leave any guest out in the cold when it comes to drinks. Make sure that as well as the classic cocktails, you also offer 'mocktails' or non-alcoholic cocktails. This will enhance their experience and is always better than toasting with a glass of water, isn't it?
Conclusion
When it comes to events, the quality of the catering can leave a lasting impression on attendees. It's important to plan ahead by creating a comprehensive list of expectations and requirements for the catering. Additionally, it's crucial to be flexible when it comes to accommodating any dietary restrictions of the guests. By adjusting the catering to fit the schedule and format of the event, you can ensure that the culinary experience is a success and leaves a positive impact on the guests.
Looking for top event catering in Antwerp, Brussels or Liège? Contact us now!
