The Masterclass on Crafting Invitations for Unforgettable Events

Posted on April 10, 2024 by cateringfft17

For event planners and organizers, the art of invitation-making is not a mere formality; it’s the first glimpse attendees get of the gathering you’ve meticulously put together. Think of an invitation as a prologue to a story—it sets the tone and piques interest in what’s to come. When planning large-scale events, the stakes are even higher. Your invitations must strike the perfect balance of information, allure, and professionalism, resulting in not only high attendance rates but also a level of anticipation and excitement among your guests.

In this extensive how-to guide, we’ll dissect the various elements that go into creating and sending out event invitations, ensuring that your next event starts with a powerful and engaging first step.

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The Key Elements of an Effective Invitation

An effective invitation is more than just aesthetically pleasing; it’s a comprehensive package delivering everything your attendees need to know to make informed decisions. Here are the must-haves for your event invitation:

Clarity in Communication

Your invitation is the first official communication about your event. It should clearly convey the event’s purpose, date, time, and location. Perhaps it’s a formal gala dinner, a seminar, or a jubilant year-end office party; make sure the essence is clear from the outset. Ambiguity can lead to a flurry of unnecessary follow-up questions, which you want to avoid in order to stay professional and efficient.

Design and Content that Reflects Your Event

Your invitation sets the stage for the experience you aim to deliver. Whether your event is upscale and sophisticated, casual and fun, or themed in a particular way, the design and content should reflect that. It’s about maintaining a consistent narrative between the invite and the event itself. Use colors, fonts, and imagery that highlight the event’s aesthetic and personality.

Personal Touches

Personalization is key, especially for high-profile or intimate gatherings. Address your recipients by name and include details that make them feel special. It could be a mention of their previous attendance, their contribution to the theme, or even a personalized QR code for quick RSVP. These little details go a long way toward building a relationship between the attendee and the event.

A Call to Action

Don’t leave your guests wondering what to do next. A clear call to action (CTA) should guide them on how to RSVP or where to get more information. Whether it’s directing them to a website, urging them to call a number, or click on an email link, be direct and give them a simple path to follow.

The Invitation Timeline

Knowing when to send out your invitation is just as crucial as its content. Here’s a timeline you can follow to maximize responses and attendance:

Timing is Everything

Send out save-the-dates well in advance, especially for large-scale events that require travel and accommodation plans. Once the details are finalized, send the formal invitations about 6-8 weeks ahead for maximum response rates. This gives your guests a chance to clear their schedules.

Multiple Reminders

Two to three weeks after the initial invitation, consider sending a gentle reminder. This is often appreciated by busy professionals and can increase your final attendance numbers.

The Final Countdown

About a week before the event, send a final reminder. Highlight any new details, last-minute changes, or exciting updates to build the event’s momentum and ensure it’s top of mind for your guests.

Technology and Tools for Large Event Invites

The traditional paper invitation still has its charm, but modern technology offers convenience and new creative options. Here are a few top ideas to consider testing out:

E-Invites and Social Media

Email invitations and social media event pages are quick to distribute and can be easily personalized. They also allow for interactive elements like embedded videos, links to maps, and live polls, adding layers to the invite experience.

Event Management Systems

Utilize event management platforms and apps that not only allow you to craft professional invitations but also help you manage RSVPs, send reminders, and gather analytics on guest interactions. These tools not only streamline the invitation process but also provide invaluable data for future events.

Hybrid Solutions

Consider integrating traditional and digital invitations for large events. For instance, you could send out physical save-the-date cards to mark the calendars, and then follow up with more detailed e-invites. This combination provides the tactile pleasure of a physical card with the interactive convenience of a digital platform.

Tracking RSVPs and Follow-Ups

Managing responses can be a logistical challenge. Implement strategies to streamline the process and improve attendance rates:

Automate RSVP Management – Use software that can track RSVPs automatically. This not only saves time but also makes it easier to manage seating, catering, and other event logistics as numbers fluctuate.

Personal Follow-Ups – For VIP guests or those who have not responded, consider making a personal follow-up call or email. This not only contributes to the personal touch but can also prompt a swifter response.

Waitlist Management – In case of overbooking, a system for wait-listing attendees can help manage expectations and prevent overcrowding. Make sure to communicate clearly about wait list availability and if you plan to accommodate more participants.

Conclusion

The importance of thoughtful, well-timed invitations cannot be overstated in the event planning process. They are the inaugural step in ensuring the success and enjoyment of your event. By paying attention to the key elements, timing, technology, and response management, your invitations will stand out for all the right reasons.

Remember, each part of your invitation serves a dual purpose: to inform and to excite. By striking this balance, you’ll not only ensure a full house but also give your attendees a taste of the exceptional event that awaits. Whether it’s a grand gala, an industry symposium, or a celebratory bash, every event can begin with an invitation that wows.

Would you like some professional assistance with managing your large event? Contact Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for quality Peachtree City GA catering. We also help with invites, décor, themes, vendors, and more! Request a consultation today.

The Art of Inclusive Catering: Meeting Special Dietary Needs

Posted on September 18, 2023 by cateringfft17

Catering a party is an art form, one that requires balancing a variety of tastes and preferences. However, the challenge intensifies when special dietary needs come into play. Whether it’s food allergies, food intolerances, diabetes, vegetarianism, veganism, or specific dietary restrictions, a thoughtful host must consider these factors to ensure everyone at the party can enjoy the food without worry.

This blog post delves into the art of inclusive catering – a guide to meeting special dietary needs while throwing a party that no one will forget. Let’s explore how to create a menu that is as diverse and inclusive as your guest list.

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Catering For Those with Special Dietary Needs

Making Sure Everyone is Catered To

The first step to inclusive catering is to make sure that everyone’s dietary needs are met. This means asking your guests ahead of time what their dietary preferences/requirements are and then making sure the menu accommodates those restrictions. It also helps to provide a variety of food items so that people have options when selecting what they would like to eat. When creating the menu, think about what flavors and ingredients will work well together while still meeting everyone’s dietary needs.

Lactose-Friendly Options

When catering to those with lactose intolerance, it’s important to provide dishes that are free of dairy products. This can include vegan and vegetarian-friendly options (such as veggie burgers, tofu stir-fries, and lentil curries) as well as other delicious dishes like roasted vegetables or salads. Additionally, using plant-based milk options such as almond, coconut, or oat milk in dishes is a great way to make sure that those with lactose issues can still enjoy the meal.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free eating has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people opting for a gluten-free diet due to food intolerances or allergies. When catering for a party with guests who live a gluten-free lifestyle, it’s important to provide a variety of options that don’t contain gluten. This might include dishes made with gluten-free flour options such as almond flour, coconut flour or buckwheat flour. You could also offer paleo-friendly meals such as grilled meats and vegetables or salads without croutons or breadcrumbs.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

When catering for vegetarians or vegans at a party, it’s important to provide meal options that are both delicious and satisfying. This could include dishes such as roasted vegetables with quinoa, black bean burgers, veggie noodle bowls or salads with plant-based proteins like tofu and tempeh. When creating vegan dishes, be sure to check the ingredients list to make sure there are no animal products present.

Diabetic-Friendly Options

When catering for guests with diabetes, it’s important to keep in mind that they may need meals with lower sugar content or carbohydrates. This could include dishes such as grilled fish with roasted vegetables, salads made with heart-healthy greens and proteins like chickpeas, or a roasted vegetable dish with quinoa. You can also provide options like sugar-free desserts to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth without compromising dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, catering a party is all about creating an enjoyable experience for your guests. To make sure everyone feels included and respected, it’s important to consider special dietary needs when creating a catering menu. With thoughtful planning and understanding, you can create an inclusive experience that will make your party truly memorable. You can always rely on your professional caterers to help you customize the perfect menu for your occasion.

Would you like to learn more about how our professional catering managers can ensure a memorable meal and experience for your guests? Contact Food For Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for professional large group catering in Peachtree City, Georgia. We custom cater for any size of event or party, from weddings and birthdays to conferences, galas, and more.

7 Tips for Finding the Perfect Catering Venue

Posted on June 26, 2023 by cateringfft17

Are you planning an event and in need of catering services? Finding the perfect venue to host your gathering can be a challenge. From budgeting considerations to finding the right place that meets all of your needs, there are many factors to consider. To help make sure you find the best option for your occasion, continue reading to learn seven tips for locating the ideal catering venue.

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Trendy Options for Catering Venues

When it comes to finding the perfect venue for your next catering event, the options are endless. Whether you’re looking for a chic and modern location or a rustic, outdoor setting, there are countless catering venues to choose from. Many venues offer amenities such as tables and chairs, as well as audiovisual equipment, décor, on-site restrooms, and ample parking. Some might even offer bar service, musical entertainment, and coat check service. When selecting a venue, consider factors such as guest capacity, accessibility, and overall ambiance. With so many options available, you’re sure to find the perfect venue that will make your catering event a success.

How to Find the Best Catering Venue for Your Special Event

1. Consider Your Budget: The price of your event will ultimately depend on the venue you choose. Be sure to take into account all associated costs such as food, beverages, and any service fees that may be included with the venue rental. When selecting a catering venue, establish a budget and stick to it!

2. Location: As the saying goes, “location is everything” when it comes to choosing an ideal event space. For larger events, you should select a place that’s easily accessible for guests and also has plenty of parking nearby. If the venue is too far out or difficult to locate, this could cause issues during your event.

3. Size & Capacity: Make sure the catering venue you’re looking at has the capacity to accommodate your event. If it’s too small, your guests won’t have enough room and will feel cramped. The same can be said for a venue that’s too big and open; if there aren’t enough people present, it could end up feeling empty.

4. Quality of Catering Services: The quality of a venue’s catering services is just as important as its size and location. Make sure to read reviews from previous customers and get recommendations from trusted sources on who they recommend for catering services in your area. If they do not offer catering options, you can hire your own private event caterers.

5. Food & Beverage Options: When selecting a place for your event, consider what type of food will best suit your group. Find out what food and beverage options are available, such as buffet-style meals or plated dinners.

6. Decorations & Amenities: Some venues offer additional amenities like decorations, audiovisual equipment, tables and chairs, and other special touches that can help to make your event one-of-a-kind. Double check with the venue for a list of items they provide or require in order to bring in yourself.

7. Payment Options: When it comes to payment, find out what type of payment methods the catering venue accepts and how long it typically takes them to process payments after an event occurs. You don’t want any surprises when it comes time to settle up!

In Summary

When it comes to finding the perfect venue for your next catering event, there are many factors to consider. From budgeting considerations and location accessibility to size and capacity, quality of services, food & beverage options, decorations & amenities available – all these need to be taken into account in order to make sure you find the best option for your occasion. Following our seven tips should help guide you through this process so that you can select a venue that meets all of your needs and makes your catering event a success!

Do you need a catering service in Georgia for your upcoming event or party? Contact Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 to speak with a friendly and experienced catering manager about wedding catering in Peachtree City, Georgia. We also serve the Newnan, Wood Valley Estates, Whitesburg, Raymond, Sharpsburg, Chattahoochee Hills, Fayetteville, Woodsmoke, Arnco Mills, and Palmetto areas.

How to Keep Your Catering Costs Low for Big Events

Posted on May 30, 2023 by cateringfft17

When it comes to throwing a big event, catering is one of the biggest costs you’ll face. Whether you’re hosting a wedding, corporate function, or birthday party, keeping your catering costs low can be a challenge. But with the right planning and preparation, it’s possible to keep your catering budget in check while still providing delicious food for your guests. Continue reading to learn some helpful, real-world tips on how to keep your catering costs low for big events.

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Average Cost of Catering a Large Event

Hosting a large event is undoubtedly a significant undertaking, with many details to consider: the venue, decor, and most importantly, catering. Catering costs can quickly add up, and setting a budget is crucial when planning. The average cost of catering for a large event can vary greatly depending on factors such as the number of guests, type of cuisine, and level of service required.

Although it is not the only business model used among catering companies, most large event catering prices are calculated on a per-head basis. Using this model, catering prices might range anywhere from $15 to $150 per person. It’s essential to work with a trusted Peachtree City caterer who can help guide you through the process and provide a realistic breakdown of the catering price sheet. With careful planning and consideration, your large event catering can be both memorable and cost-effective.

Effective Ways to Reduce Event Catering Costs

Organizing a big event entails significant catering expenses, whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, or birthday party. It can be challenging to control catering costs, but with proper planning, it’s achievable. Here are some tips to keep your catering expenses to a minimum and still serve delightful food for your guests:

1. Research the Catering Services in Your Area: There are lots of catering services out there, so do your research and find one that offers reasonable rates for the quality of food they provide. Ask around to get referrals from friends and family members who have used different caterers before. Make sure you read reviews online too, so you can make an informed decision.

2. Opt for Local Food Vendors: Instead of going with a catering service, see if there are any local restaurants that offer delivery or catering services at competitive prices. This way, you’ll be able to support small businesses while potentially saving money on your event’s budget. It’s always a good idea to call ahead and find out if they offer discounts for larger orders.

3. Reduce Waste: Order only as much food as you think your guests will eat to avoid wasting money on uneaten food. Also, try to choose menu items that don’t require a lot of preparation and decorations, which can add up quickly in terms of costs.

4. Consider Bringing in Your Own Food: If you have the time and skill set, consider bringing in some of your own food or ingredients to use in your catering service’s dishes. This is a great way to save money while still providing high-quality food for your event.

5. Opt For Buffet-Style Service: Buffets are usually cheaper than sit-down meals and are a good way to feed large groups of people. Guests will be able to choose the dishes they like, which can help keep food waste at a minimum.

In Summary

By doing your research, you’ll be able to find the right catering service that fits within your budget. With some creative thinking and proper planning, you can save money on catering costs while still providing delicious food for your guests.

Looking for full-service event catering that meets the budget requirement? Contact Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for professional large event catering in Peachtree City, Georgia. We also help with décor, themes, vendors, and more. Request a consultation today!

How to Properly Store Your Catering Leftovers

Posted on June 21, 2022 by cateringfft17

Catering service is an excellent and reliable asset to use for your party planning needs, so long as you choose the right company, of course. The right caterers can customize your event menus, prepare all foods and meals, plus provide a wide range of vendor procurement, food delivery, waitstaff service, and cleanup options. Professional catering is the convenient and cost-effective approach to pulling off a memorable and successful event.

But when you cater a large group, you are bound to have all sorts of leftovers. From salads and hors d’oeuvres to breads, sides, main courses, desserts, and more, catering leftovers are a food-lover’s dream. But in order to take full advantage of them all, you must know how to properly store them. Not only does proper food storage extend the life of your leftovers, allowing you to enjoy them until they are done, but is also avoids the chances of food-borne illnesses.

Continue below to learn some tips on how to store catered leftovers so that you can safely and cost-effectively feed your crew for weeks to come!

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Your Leftovers Have Value

Although you have no option but to toss out old or expired foods, it still impacts your conscience knowing that you could have prevented them from spoiling so soon. Food waste wastes more than just foods, it also wastes money, and worse, makes you feel guilty. After taking home all of the leftover catered foods from your party or event, it is in your best interest to properly store them in a timely fashion so that you can safely serve and enjoy them for as long as possible. After all, catered food is so delicious, you wouldn’t want to miss out on a single bite!

Food Storage Tips for Leftovers

According to Amy Shapiro, MS, RD, CDN, and owner of Real Nutrition NYC, the biggest error of judgement you can make when it comes to leftovers is letting them sit out for too long. She urges people to “Leave leftovers out for no more than two hours at room temperature. Otherwise, bacteria grows, which is one of the biggest causes of foodborne Illness.”

According to another expert, Angela L. Murad, RDN, wellness dietitian at the Mayo Clinic Healthy Living Program, another common mistake made with leftovers is not marking their containers with labels and dates. Furthermore, try to assign a use for them, like using leftover French fries in a morning omelet or scramble. You can also place notes out to remind you when to reheat them or use them in a recipe.

The Best Way to Store Leftover Food

All leftovers should be broken down into smaller portions and allocated evenly into airtight containers. If you do not have airtight containers, plastic bags that are tightly sealed work well. After repackaging, it is encouraged to label and date the containers for optimal organization. So, where do you store them and how long will they last there? Depending on the type of food, you may need to separate your leftovers between your fridge and freezer, while some good might even be stored in the pantry or on the shelf.

RULE OF THUMB:

Basically, if it has been cooked or cooled, it needs to be refrigerated or frozen when it becomes a leftover. Be sure your fridge is set between 36 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit. If you cannot use these items within the suggested time limit, it is recommended to freeze them. However, it is not recommended to freeze cheese or hard-boiled eggs! Breads and pastries can be transferred to a breadbox or airtight container in the pantry.

Flash Guide for Leftover Food Storage:

◘ Leafy Salads – 1 Day
◘ Creamed Salads (Egg, Chicken, Tuna, Macaroni, etc.) – 3 to 5 Days
◘ Pasta Salad – 4 to 5 Days
◘ Hard-Boiled Eggs – 1 Week
◘ Hard Cheeses – 3 to 4 Weeks
◘ Soft Cheeses – 1 Week
◘ Casseroles – 3 to 4 Days
◘ Mashed Potatoes – 3 to 4 Days
◘ Cooked Pasta (No Sauce) – 2 to 3 Days
◘ Gravy & Sauces – 1 Week
◘ Pizza – 3 to 4 Days
◘ Cooked Seafood – 3 to 4 Days
◘ Vegetarian Rice and Pasta Dishes – 3 to 5 Days
◘ Steaks, Pork & Chicken – 3 to 4 Days
◘ Soups and Stews – 3 to 4 Days
◘ Cooked Vegetables – 3 to 4 Days
◘ Cookies, Pies & Cakes – 1 Week

Are you looking for a professional and experienced catering company to help make your upcoming event a success? Contact Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for trusted Peachtree City GA catering that delivers above and beyond your expectations. We also help with décor, themes, vendors, and more! Request a consultation, today.

Enhance Your Event With These 3 Catering Tips

Posted on May 5, 2022 by cateringfft17

If you in charge of coordinating a special event for work, an organization, or your own family, take it to the next level with smart catering. Continue reading to learn 3 essential catering tips that will guarantee a successful outcome for your event or party.

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Focus on Food Above All Else

Let’s face it the most anticipated part of any special event or party is the food. Everybody’s hungry and everybody wants to eat. If you are serving alcoholic beverages at your event, it is imperative that you provide a selection of foods to balance out the celebratory environments. Because food is the most important part of your event, do not be afraid to put most of your focus on catering. If you’re catering is smartly coordinated, the remaining elements of your event should naturally fall into place. After all, guests mostly remember the food and entertainment portions of an event.

The Top 3 Catering Tips You Should Know

❶ Avoid the Most Common Catering Mistakes

Many party planners to make the same kinds catering mistakes. Fortunately, this allows people like you to learn from their mistakes before making them yourself. By avoiding common catering mistakes, you can ensure that your event is streamlined and successful.

Do Not…

► Fall short on establishing a strict RSVP policy. By knowing how many guests you can expect to be in attendance, you can better calculate how much food and beverage is required.

► Skip planning your budget. Budget is everything when it comes to catering plans. If you want to be cost-efficient, it is important to know how much catering budget you have to work with.

► Failing to compare catering options. There is more than one catering company out there, so be sure to interview a few in order to get the best

► Forget to incorporate dietary restrictions. Think about dietary restrictions and preferences like gluten-free, lactose-free, vegetarian, vegan, peanut allergies, fish and shellfish allergies, and other common food allergies and intolerances.

❷ Curate a Tasty and Diverse Menu

There are endless items you can add to your catering spread, just be sure to choose a well-rounded assortment of appetizers, soups, salads, entrees, and sides that will meet the palate of the average guest. Try to avoid too many exotic or fancy foods when feeding large crowds. Instead, aim for popular and universally-liked foods and drinks. Basically, skip the escargot and stewed ostrich, and opt for more conventional trimmings like beef, chicken, potatoes, and pasta. Don’t forget about dessert and coffee selections. Work with a professional caterer to coordinate the perfect catering menu for your event.

❸ Hire the Right Professional Caterer

Caterers and catering companies are listed everywhere around you. So, how do you know which company is the right one? To find a trusted and qualified catering service, look for the key industry credentials: good reviews, experience, proof of culinary skill, and flexibility. Be sure to have consults and interviews with a few different companies before landing on a decision. Never be uncomfortable asking for references, estimates, and special services. Interviewing allows you to get to know the attitude and ambience of the company, learn the services they can provide, and even hear some creative ideas they have on the tops of their heads!

As for cost, many people do not realize that professional catering services are often 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! Do not be tempted by low prices; these prices speak directly to the type of food you’ll be getting. It there is anything to go over budget on; it would be the food every time. Do not take short cuts when catering a party or event!

Are you looking for a professional caterer in Georgia to use for event catering? Contact Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 to speak with a friendly and experienced Peachtree City catering service manager, today. We offer boxed lunches, delivery service, buffets, plated meals, food service, and more!

Top 3 Options for Effortless Corporate Seminar Catering

Posted on March 10, 2022 by cateringfft17

So, your company has a corporate seminar event coming up in a few weeks and you are in charge of planning the meal service? No need to panic. Corporate catering services are here for you. However, you will need to decide on a type of corporate catering service. Fortunately, that’s simple too.

When you want an easy and effortless catering plan for a company conference or seminar, choose from these top 3 corporate catering options!

Corporate Catering Peachtree City GA 678-340-0510

Informal Catering for Corporate Luncheons and Seminars

When it comes to corporate catering, the setting is generally less formal, making it much easier to plan and execute a catering plan. The top 3 corporate catering options that will make your life easier and please all guests are buffets, boxed lunches, and party trays. Whether your company seminar is scheduled for the duration of a weekend, an overnight stay, or a portion of a day, these top 3 corporate office catering services are convenient and compatible!

How do you know which style of office catering to choose from? Choose one based on the number of people you are feeding, the location of and setting of the seminar, the length of time for eating, and your company’s budget. A professional corporate caterer can help you with all of these decisions and more! For instance, if your company seminar is just a few hours, party trays would make an excellent pre-meeting or post-meeting catering option, but it would not be best for a weekend long company event.

Party Trays and Platters

As just mentioned, party trays are the most informal and simplest office or corporate catering option. They are most compatible for corporate events that are smaller and shorter, like business luncheons, team meetings, afternoon training seminars, networking events, think tanks, and similar company occasions. Party platters are easy and effortless, plus they offer infinite versatility. You can arrange all sorts of combinations of party trays, from a selection of sandwiches, pinwheels, and wraps, to a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, crackers, cured meats, cheeses, charcuterie, breads, and desserts. They are also the most cost-effective option of the three.

Boxed Lunches

Boxed lunches are another perfect corporate catering option for the less formal company event or seminar. They are also compatible for events that last a bit longer, like an entire day or an overnight stay. You can even cater corporate boxed breakfasts, lunches, and dinners for an entire weekend. They are served in an appealing container fashion that is both elegant and sanitary. They are also easy to pass out and can be customized according to dietary preferences or restrictions. As for budget, they are in the middle of the range, being affordable and worth the cost, but pricier than party platters.

Buffets

For a semi-formal, formal, or lengthier corporate seminar, a buffet or selection of buffets is an excellent catering option to choose. Like all catering, they can be 100% customized to your liking, or you can simply choose a theme and let the catering company take the liberty of planning a balanced offering. Buffets are also great for company events because they are self-serving, which is easier and often preferred by guests. Best for dinner service, buffets can offer a wide selection of hot foods and cold foods. When it comes to pricing, you can expect buffet catering service to be a bit more, but always worth the cost.

Are you looking for a professional catering company for your company event? Contact Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 to speak with a friendly and experienced Peachtree City catering service manager about our corporate event catering services, today. We serve all of Peach Tree City and its surrounding locations.

Top 4 Catering Styles to Choose From for Your Event

Posted on August 5, 2021 by cateringfft17

The style of dining service you choose for your catered event is an important decision. Whether you are catering your autumn wedding, corporate luncheon, or family reunion, the type of catering style will have a significant impact on the overall success of your event. Continue reading the learn the top four catering styles trending this year, and who to trust for professional Peachtree City Georgia catering services.

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Dining Style Service Options for Catering an Event

No matter what type of event you are planning, it is usually the food and beverage selections that excite guests most. For this reason, it is important to really hit it out of the ballpark when it comes to planning your events catering. Along with what’s going to be on the catering menu, you will need to decide the style in which you will be serving your catered items. The top four styles of dining service for a catered event include cocktail style catering, buffet style catering, food stations, and plated dinner service.

Cocktail Style Catering

The cocktail style catering approach, you can expect your guests to have a selection of small plates, handhelds, outdoor herbs, and similar appetizer-style food options, as well as bar and beverage service. You can expect to have a variety of high-top cocktail tables for guests to stand that while they enjoyed their food and beverages, or you can opt for bar stool seating or traditional dining room table seating.

This type of dining style allows for more mingling and socialization, plus it tends to be more economical in price compared to full service catering. It is a great option for smaller venues, small events, and “pre-events” that take place prior to a larger event. Some people have complained that the style of catering does not provide enough food for guests and renders higher liquor costs.

Buffet Style Catering

Buffets are a popular and convenient catering style for virtually any type of event or special occasion. Whether you’re planning a wedding or hosting a charity fundraiser, a catered buffet is typically always a good fit. Buffets are usually more cost efficient, simpler to plan, and tend to make guests much happier because they have a wide selection of dining options. Buffets are highly recommended for large crowds and large catered events, such as weddings and family reunions, because they allow the event planner or host to accommodate a wide spectrum of tastes and dining preferences. And because guests serve themselves, you don’t have to pay additional fees for servers and waitstaff.

Food Stations

Food stations are somewhat similar to buffets and that they offer food and beverage variety. However, food stations are set up in a way that each individual table has a different type of food or beverage option. Raw bars, tapas, hibachi, “you-call-it” omelets, “make-your-own” pasta, “build-your-own” sundae, antipasto, meat carving, and similar food tables are popular and trending food station catering ideas this year. Keep in mind that if you want several food stations you will need a larger venue; but the great thing about food station style catering is that it can be accommodated to any size venue, small or large. Some no downfalls of food station style catering have been suggested to be the need to hire multiple chefs for each station.

Plated Dining Service

Plated dining services another popular catering style usually reserved for more formal events like weddings, fundraisers, galas, and similar ceremonial or official occasions. This type of catered dining service is fancier, more elegant, and therefore traditionally more expensive. Upon choosing this catering style, you also need a plan for plate-ware, tableware, tables and chairs, linens, waitstaff, and if you really want to take it up a notch, white glove service. Plated dining service is served by a waitstaff to all guests at the same time. Dinner options come from a predetermined menu that guests choose from when they RSVP to your event.

Are you looking for professional catering company in Georgia for your upcoming event? Contact Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 to speak with a friendly and experienced Peachtree City catering service manager, today.

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Suggestions for Planning an Off-Site Catered Event in Georgia

Posted on September 11, 2020 by cateringfft17

To plan a successful off-site catered event, it is important to start early on and give yourself plenty of time to hammer out all the details. Although this will take some patience and a bit of finesse on your part, proper party planning is the key to a smooth and successful outcome. Continue reading to learn where to start, what to do, and how to get the best results for your catered event.

First…Decide on a Date

Setting a date is the first thing that should be on your to-do list. Once you have a date set, you can move forward with the remaining party-planning tasks. Be sure to set your date within a reasonable time; not too soon but not too far out. Give yourself a realistic amount of time to pull off a great event, while also making sure to not set it so far in advance that people become forgetful or unenthusiastic about it.

It is also important to consider seasonal factors like weather and climate. If you have your heart set on an outdoor event in Georgia, you don’t want to set the date in late November. Likewise, avoid rainy or humid seasons for outdoor events. Not only does rain and humidity affect food and beverages, it affects a long list of other things, like clothing, hair, windows, and more.

Set a Realistic Budget

Discuss what your total budget will be before planning anything else so that you and your team are on the same page in terms of finances. Knowing your budget up front helps you stick by it, and makes the selection process much easier. Let your services know what your budget is, and they can provide the options that fit best.

Select a Suitable Venue

As soon as the date is set, the very first thing you need to do is find and reserve a venue. Be sure to due ample research, and see what all the local indoor and outdoor venues have to offer in terms of location, aesthetics, packages, and amenities. Choose a place that makes sense for the size and type of the group attending. A space too small will create a cramped and hot event, and a space too large will feel empty, which can cause a disconnection among guests and make your event appear like it had a poor turn out. For a group that is elderly or handicapped, you don’t want to book your event at a place with lots of stairs, or without safety ramps, elevators, and other necessary conveniences.

Choose Your Entertainment

If you were to ask the guests, the catered food and beverages are the best part of any event. In fact, it is often the focal point of a party! For this reason, an exceptionally catered event doesn’t need much more entertaining. But if you do want to spice things up a bit, nothing will render a party more memorable than music. Hire a live band, or provide a platform for guest karaoke. You can also choose to hire a professional DJ, violinist, cellist, harp player, piano player, dueling pianos, and more, depending on the theme of your event. For events with children, bouncing houses, clowns, face painters, magicians, and exotic animals are a fun way to go.

Professional Event and Party Catering in Georgia

Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for professional Georgia catering services for parties and events of all occasions and sizes. 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 aid with décor, themes, vendors, and more! Call 678-340-0510 to learn more about our Newnan catering services, or to request a free estimate, today!

Top Considerations for Catering an Event

Posted on June 14, 2019 by cateringfft17

There are so many occasions that benefit from professional catering services. Popular events to cater include weddings, reunions, graduations, communions, anniversaries, holiday parties, and so much more. Catering adds a creative and memorable touch to any ceremony, making a fantastic impression on all guests. If you have decided to hire a caterer for your gathering, be sure to consider some particular matters that could either make or break your catering experience.

Continue reading to learn the top catering factors to consider.

The Budget

You have to determine a budget from the very beginning. As the catering process flows on, it is easy to get carried away and go well above your initial budget plan. Set a rational budget based on influential variables; such as the finalize guest count, size of venue, location of the event, and degree of formal to not formal. Based on these numbers and conclusions, you can accurately calculate the amount of money needed to properly cater your party. From there, you can make suitable arrangements within your set budget.

The Theme

After figuring out a budget for hiring a caterer, you have to determine what kind of event you are organizing. If the party, event, or ceremony already has a basic and obvious theme, then the job is done for you! In other cases, such as birthday parties and weddings, you can freely choose a theme that best represents the guest of honor’s personality, wants, or desires. In such a circumstance, be sure to set a theme before making any other catering decisions. This is because caterers can prepare beautiful spreads based on a theme of an event, upon request. Whether it is an Asian themed wedding, or a Disney Princess birthday celebration, definitively decide before choosing a caterer and creating a menu.

The Source

Once the budget is set and the theme is discovered, it is time to start looking for a catering company. At this point in the process, be sure to do your due diligence. It is important to choose the right company for your event. To do so, read online reviews from past clients and customers. This is often times one of the most resourceful ways to find out if a company is reputable or not. Catering is costly, especially for larger happenings; so it is crucial to pick a business that has experience and good customer referrals.

Another way to choose a caterer is to call around and conduct small, over-the-phone interviews with local companies. Never be uncomfortable asking for references, estimates, and special services. Calling around allows you to get to know the attitude and ambience of the company, learn the services they can provide, and even hear some creative ideas they have on the tops of their heads! This is another great way to find a reputable catering company in your area and one of the last things to consider when choosing to cater your event.

A Georgia Catering Company You Can Trust

Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for customized event catering in Newnan, Georgia and its surrounding towns. Our expert catering coordinators and Executive chefs specialize in providing tailored menus and themes for all races, religions, ethnicities, and more. We can also accommodate special dietary requests and restrictions, including Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-free, food allergies, and kosher diets. Request a free quote, today!