Georgia Catering FAQS You Want to Know for 2021

Posted on December 28, 2020 by cateringfft17

With any important party or special occasion, professional catering can impressively boost the theme and ambience for your guests and guest of honor. Whether it is a birthday, graduation, Bat Mitzvah, or other type of celebration, hiring a skilled catering company can be extremely beneficial for the host. But with all the ambiguous scheduling conflicts and CDC guidelines that are continuing to influence our Georgia event and party planning, how can you really know if professional catering is the right choice for your upcoming and anticipated affair next year?

If you are still unsure whether or not catering is right for your 2021 event, continue reading to review some frequently asked questions that have recently arisen over the past few months to help you make a more informed decision.

2021 Georgia Catering Services — New Year Georgia Catering Services 678-340-0510

Will I Need a Caterer in 2021?

First, you must ask yourself if your particular type of event or occasion is a good fit for professional catering service. Most often, the answer is always a YES, since professional caterers can customize any type of plan or menu, whether for 8 people at a private house dinner party, or for an entire grouping of wedding guests. Furthermore, catering companies offer infinite menu ideas, themes, services, food, and more.

You can customize your catering at a professional company because they retain the ample resources and training to provide the ultimate catering experience. Whether you are looking for something intimate and small, or plan to cater for an entire football team, professional catering services can make it happen at a price that fits your planned budget.

How Much Will Catering Cost Per Head?

The total cost of catering services is unique to every client. It all depends on several factors, including guest count, menu choices, alcohol selections, bar service, and more. It also largely depends on your chosen amenities, such as your venue, décor, tables, chairs, linens, cutlery, plate ware, wait staff, tray service, delivery, cleanup, and more. Caterers often offer these services along with their food and beverage services.

On average, you can expect a small to medium-sized party to cost anywhere from $25 to $75 a head, depending on the type of catering style you choose. For example, cocktail parties with minimal food service may cost less than a large family reunion. Similarly, a buffet style service may be cheaper than a 5 course plated dinner and wait staff. The total cost really all depends on you and want you want for your party.

Should I Choose On-Site or Off-Site Catering?

When you are having your party at a venue that will also be preparing and serving the party’s food, you are paying for on-site catering, also referred to as on-premise catering. On-site catering is food preparation and service facilitated on the premises of the venue location. The opposite applies to “off-premises” catering. Off-site catering occurs when a professional food service company (your caterers), prepare the food at their own commercial kitchen headquarters, and then transfers the food to the location of your party. With the current pandemic, most catering clients in Georgia are opting for off-site catering to appease CDC guidelines for social distancing and safety.

Can I Test the Food Before I Hire a Caterer?

If a catering company tells you that you cannot test the food before hiring them as your event cater, do not consider them as an option. This is not a good sign. Any reputable and professional catering company provides food testing services for any potential clients, especially for weddings. After all, how else can you be sure the food will taste great? Just keep in mind that it is common for companies to charge a fee for this service, especially during the busy season. However, keep in mind that changing conditions due to COVID-19 might impact pre-service tastings to a certain degree.

Which Georgia Catering Company Should I Hire to Cater My Event in 2021?

Food for Thought Catering, Of Course!

Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for professional special occasion catering services in Georgia and its surrounding areas, including Peachtree City, Raymond, Sharpsburg, Woodsmoke, Wood Valley Estates, Arnco Mills, Fayetteville, Whitesburg, Chattahoochee Hills, Palmetto, and more. We offer full-service catering, along with a wide selection of authentic, custom-made menus and packages, for all corporate and private events. Request a free estimate, today.

Tasty Party Foods That Won’t Break Your New Year’s Resolution

Posted on January 13, 2020 by cateringfft17

Are you worried that an upcoming party is going to set you back from reaching your New Year’s resolution? If so, you can feel better knowing that you can easily maintain your positive health food goals by simply opting for some healthier dishes. By focusing mostly on natural, wholesome ingredients, you can cater a healthy spread without sacrificing quality or flavor.

Continue reading for some recommended healthy party food catering ideas.

Mini Handhelds

One of the most popular catering trends of 2019 was miniature finger foods, and the novelty has yet to wear off! Mini sandwiches are still among the top-requested items at catered events this year. The great thing about sandwiches is that they are so versatile; you can make them as gourmet or kid-friendly as you like, and even match them to your party theme. Other popular choices have been mini veggie wraps, turkey burger sliders, and mini chicken brats. Use a whole-grain or homemade bread, coupled with some tasty condiments that are good for you, like ground mustard, avocado, or an olive-oil based vinaigrette. Also, using real cheese slices really enhances flavor and texture.

Fruit and Yogurt Parfaits

When you mix cream and fruit together, you get a delicious and better-for-you dessert loved by people of all ages. Fruit and yogurt parfaits are great because they can be made with an endless combination of fruits, creams, juices, and yogurts. And the fancy parfait glasses are usually a big hit as well. You can match your recipe you’re your party theme, or provide an array of options for guests. Parfaits are quick and easy to make, and provide a healthier, natural alternative to processed sugar. You can also make them with frozen yogurt for summer occasions.

Grilled Vegetable Kabobs

Again, finger foods are a popular item for parties. And what better way to spice up veggies than to put them on a stick and grill them? Kabobs are convenient, no matter what you put on them, and vegetables are delicious when grilled. The flavors of grilled vegetables really pop, so people like them more when they are cooked this way. Putting them on a stick makes them easier to eat, so more people are likely to go for them too. The best part about veggie kabobs other than their healthiness is their versatility. You can mix and match a wide range of vegetables, and match them according to theme or season.

Custom Catering Services in Georgia

Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for professional custom catering in Newnan, Georgia. We offer a wide range of catering services for all industries, occasions, events, and more. Choose from our popular catering menu, or work with our catering coordinators to customize a menu according to your particular needs and interests. We can also help with décor, themes, vendors, and more! Request a free estimate, information, or advice, today!

3 Factors to Consider Before Hiring a Caterer

Posted on October 25, 2019 by cateringfft17

Catering is arguably one of the most important and most memorable part of any event. Food plays an important role in most people’s lives, and the same goes for the success of an event, whether it be an extravagant wedding or an outdoor corporate cook out. So it is important to make sure the catering plans you’ve made are the best fit for whatever event is approaching on your calendar.

The greatest full-proof method to making sure your food plan is delicious, sufficient, and within budget, is to hire a professional caterer. But before you hire a caterer, it is wise to consider a few factors first. These factors will set the tone, budget, and plan for the entire catering process, and give you the tools necessary to create a beautiful event everyone will talk about for years!

Continue reading to learn about these factors and where to begin planning the catering for your special event.

❶ Type of Event

The first aspect to consider is the type of event you are catering. This will also help you narrow down the type of caterer you want to call. For example, a wedding will require a fancier menu, alcohol service, wait staff, prep and breakdown services, specific time schedules, and a caterer that specializes in wedding service catering. Whereas a corporate picnic might require a more relaxed food and beverage menu, buffet-style service, a caterer that specializes in large-scale outdoor catering. See our blog, “Types of Occasions Perfect for Professional Catering Service” for help with your party’s leitmotif and more.

❷ Budget

Your budget is one of the most important aspects of the catering planning process. This is the number that will place you in a particular bracket of service that best fits your type of event. One good tip for setting a budget is multiplying the number of people expected to attend the event by a personally-selected number “per head.” So for a nicer, upper-scale event, you might decide that each attendee is $50 a head. Multiply that number by the number of expected guests, and you have a base budget for catering. You may need to inflate this number just a bit to be more realistic with catering costs and needs. This is an area to discuss and customize with your caterer as well. See our blog, “Cost Saving Advice for Catering a Party.”

❸ Wait Staff and Service

Will your event require any type of wait staff? There are a few different types of service a caterer can provide in terms of bartenders, waiters, cocktail waitresses, food carriers, buffet attendants, and more. You can select a certain level of wait staff as well, from basic bartenders and tray carriers, to full-service formal wait staffs, and everything in between. See our blog, “How to Hire the Right Caterers for Your Event” to get started on the right track.

✨ Once you have all three of these factors planned out, you can contact your local catering company and begin bringing your plan to life!

Call Our Georgia Caterers for Exceptional Service!

Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for Georgia catering services that are guaranteed to exceed your expectations for excellence! We are skilled culinary professionals who specialize in full-service catering. You can customize everything down to the very last detail, from menus and service, to themes, décor, and more. Call 678-340-0510 to request a free consultation, today!

FAQS About Catering a Party

Posted on March 25, 2019 by cateringfft17

With any important party or special occasion, professional catering can enhance the theme and experience for your guests. Whether it is a birthday, graduation, Bat Mitzvah, or other type of celebration, hiring a skilled catering company can be tremendously beneficial for the host. If you are still unsure whether or not catering is right for your event, continue reading to review some frequently asked questions and answers about party catering to help you make an informed decision.

Do I Need a Caterer?

Professional catering companies offer infinite menu ideas, themes, services, food, and more. You can customize your catering at a professional company because they retain the ample resources and training to provide the ultimate catering experience. Whether you are looking for something intimate and small, or plan to cater for an entire football team, professional catering services can make it happen at a price that pleases. See our blog, “Top 3 Reasons to Hire Professional Caterers for Your Special Occasion” to learn why you should trust a professional catering company for smooth, hassle-free service.

How Much Does Catering Cost Per Person?

The total cost of catering services are unique to every client. It all depends on several factors, including guest count, menu selections, bar and alcohol service, and more. It also largely depends on your chosen amenities, such as décor, tables and chairs, linens, cutlery, plate ware, wait staff, tray service, delivery, cleanup, and more. On average, you can expect a small to medium-sized party to cost anywhere from $20 to $70 a head, depending on the type of catering style you choose.

For example, cocktail parties with minimal food service may cost less than a large family reunion. And a buffet style service may be cheaper than a 5 course plated dinner and wait service. The total cost really all depends on you and want you want for your party. See our blog, “Cost-Saving Advice for Catering a Party” for more tips on how to better budget your catered event!

What is “On-Premise” and “Off-Premise” Catering?

When you are having your party at a venue that will also be preparing and serving the party’s food, you are paying for “on-premise” catering. On-premise catering is food preparation and service facilitated on the premises of the venue location. The opposite applies to “off-premises” catering.

Off-premise catering occurs when a professional food service company (your caterers), prepare the food at their own commercial kitchen headquarters, and then transfers the food to the location of your party. See our blog, “Tips for Planning an Off-Site Catered Event” to get a better understanding.

Where Can I Find a Quality Catering Company in Georgia?

Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for Georgia event catering you can trust! We are skilled culinary professionals who specialize in full-service party catering. You can customize everything down to the very last detail, from menus and service, to themes, décor, venues, and more. Request a free consultation, today!

Delicious Lemonade Recipes for Spring and Summer

Posted on May 14, 2018 by cateringfft17

When life throws you lemons, make lemonade! A classic saying that rings true for anyone who loves a crisp and refreshing glass of this common citrus and sugar-based beverage. Although traditionally made using lemons, sugar, and water, lemonade makes the perfect base for creating new tasty drinks. You can jazz up a glass of your own lemonade with a few nifty tricks, or an entire pitcher with great recipe ideas.

If you enjoy drinking lemonade, continue reading to learn how to make some delicious renditions that are perfect for warmer weather!

Georgia Catering Services 678-340-0510

When it comes to making anything, using premium-quality ingredients is the secret to making it great. As for lemonade, you can start from scratch using lemons, white sugar, and water, or you can work from a premade lemonade drink. This can be the lemonade you ordered with your lunch, a powdered lemonade mix, or a lemonade can. If you are interested in a lower-calorie beverage, try swapping white sugar for your favorite sugar-substitute, such as Stevia® or Splenda®.

Standard Lemonade Recipe From Scratch:

🍋 9 Lemons
🍋 1 ¾ Cup White Sugar
🍋 8 Cups Cold Water
🍋 1 Gallon Pitcher

❶ Combine 1 cup of water and 1 ¾ cups sugar in a small sauce pan and bring it to a boil. Stir until the sugar completely dissolves and a syrup is formed.

❷ Transfer the syrup mixture into a plastic container and store in the refrigerator until it has cooled down completely.

❸ Juice all of the lemons to make 1 ½ cups of juice. Remove any seeds but keep any bits of pulp.

❹ Trick of the Trade: Firmly roll the lemons between your hand and counter top before cutting them in half to juice.

❺ In your pitcher, combine your syrup, lemon juice, and the remaining 7 cups of water. Stir thoroughly and adjust water to taste.

❻ Chill in the refrigerator for 4 hours. Serve over ice.

Recipes for Enhancing your Lemonade:

Bars and Restaurants

If you are out on the town, there are plenty of ways you can upgrade your standard glass of lemonade. One popular trick is to request an orange slice with your lemonade to add to citrusy profile. If you really love the flavor, you can enhance it further by squeezing two orange slices into your drink, or requesting a slash of OJ in your lemonade.

Another great restaurant trick that can make your lemonade taste even better is to request cherries. Maraschino cherry juice is a wonderful additive to lemonade, making is sweet and colorful. Kids really enjoy this trick, and best of all, it’s free!

Pitcher Recipes

After you have prepared a pitcher of classic lemonade, you can add ingredients to create a unique and delightful new lemon drink. For instance, adding fresh herbs like rosemary, mint, cinnamon sticks, or bergamot, can instantly add flavor to lemonade. Just be sure to strain before serving, especially if using rosemary.

If you are after something sweeter, one of the most beloved lemonade recipes is strawberry lemonade. Just muddle fresh cut strawberries with sugar and store in the refrigerator. Then the next day, you can add a scoop to your glass, or the whole thing to your pitcher. You can do this with other fruits too, such as raspberries, blueberries, watermelon, cherries, and oranges.

Newnan Event Catering

Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510

Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for quality event catering in Newnan, Georgia and its surrounding areas like Peachtree City. We offer a wide range of catering services for all industries, occasions, events, and more. Choose from our popular catering menu, or work with our catering coordinators to customize a menu according to your particular needs and interests. We can also provide assistance with décor, themes, vendors, and more!

Types of Occasions Perfect for Professional Catering Service

Posted on February 9, 2018 by cateringfft17

There are several parties, events, and celebrations that are made better with professional catering services. Basically, if you have an occasion coming up that involves entertaining more than 6 guests, you have the perfect opportunity to cater the event with professional food and service!

Think it’s out of the budget?

The truth is, professional catering services are not just affordable, they are more cost-effective compared to purchasing groceries, products, and similar provisions yourself. Think about it; you can have all the labor, service, food, and cleanup all taken care of by one team of catering experts!

Need some more inspiration on which parties to cater?

Continue reading for a list of events and occasions that call for professional catering!

Georgia Catering Services 678-340-0510

🎂 Birthdays

Birthdays are simply a given when it comes to a perfect party to cater. Most people will have at least 6 to 10 guests at a birthday party, which is a perfect catering occasion. For parties that have dozens of guests, catering is almost a must if you want to enjoy yourself. This is especially true for large birthday parties with 50 to 100 guests or more.

🎉 Celebrations

When you want to celebrate something important in life, a party is the way to go. As for catering celebratory parties, occasions like national holidays, religious holidays, weddings, civil unions, reunions, bachelor/bachelorette parties, engagement parties, wedding showers, baby showers, school dances, block parties, welcome home parties, and even family movie nights, are the perfect match.

📚 Initiatives

When you are holding an event to accomplish a goal, it is better done with delicious food! Events like educational panels, conventions, charity balls, fundraisers, office conferences, and even auctions, are a great match for professional catering.

🎖 Achievements

Achieving anything positive in life is worthy of praise and acknowledgement. Parties are a great way to convey praise for someone’s accomplishments, and professional catering can really up the ante. Common examples of such occasions include retirement, graduations, promotions, awards, grants, scholarships, housewarming parties, and more.

🕆 Rites of Passage

Many people eventually earn a rite of passage or have a coming of age moment in life. These rites of passage and coming of age moments are often celebrated with a large group of friends and family, making them the perfect occasion to cater professionally! These include communions, baptisms, confirmations, religious inductions, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, Quinceaneras, Sweet Sixteens, and more.

Georgia Catering Services

Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510

Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for professional caterers in Newnan, Georgia and its surrounding areas, including Peach Tree City, Raymond, Sharpsburg, Woodsmoke, Wood Valley Estates, Arnco Mills, Fayetteville, Whitesburg, Chattahoochee Hills, Palmetto, and more. We offer full-service catering, along with a wide selection of authentic, custom-made menus and packages, for all corporate and private events. Request a free estimate, today.