How to Make Your Outdoor Summer Event a Success

Posted on June 14, 2023 by cateringfft17

Are you planning an outdoor summer event? Whether it’s a 50^th birthday party, wedding reception, family reunion, or corporate gathering, hosting an outdoor event is one of the best ways to enjoy the warm weather. But with any type of event comes a lot of work and preparation – and that includes making sure your guests have enough food! It can be hard to know where to start when it comes to finding professional catering for your outdoor summer event. Continue reading to learn some tips on how you can make sure your event is a success from start to finish.

Call 678-340-0510 For Outdoor Catering Services in Peachtree City GA

Tips for Outdoor Summer Event Planning

There are several considerations to keep in mind when planning a summertime outdoor event or party. From food and drink selections and dietary restrictions to service preferences, guest logistics, seating, settings, and more, it is important that you familiarize yourself with the most important starting-off aspects of the event planning process.

What You Need to Know About Planning an Outdoor Event in Summer:

☑ Professional Catering Services

The first thing you should do is think about the type of event you’re hosting and what kind of food would work best. You want to make sure that your guests have enough options, so look into professional catering that offers a variety of dishes. From finger food and canapes to roasted meats and salads, there are endless possibilities to choose from. It’s also important to take into consideration any dietary needs or allergies your guests might have – so be sure to check with the caterers before making your decision.

☑ Service Options

Once you’ve chosen the right menu for your outdoor summer event, it’s time to start thinking about how you will serve it. If you don’t have access to an outdoor kitchen or a barbecue, consider renting out tables and chairs to set up an organized dining area. You’ll also need to think about beverage options – will you provide bar drinks for your guests, or will they pay at a cash bar? If you do offer alcoholic beverages, make sure that they are appropriate for the event and be mindful of any restrictions that may apply.

☑ Event Planning

Finally, it’s time to start the planning process. Think about how many people will be attending the event and what type of setup would work best in your outdoor space. Be sure to check with local authorities regarding permits if necessary. Once you have everything sorted, all that’s left is to enjoy yourself at the event! With proper preparation and professional catering services, you’re sure to make your outdoor summer event a success.

Now Your Summer Event Can Be a Success!

Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a large-scale celebration, professional catering will help ensure that your guests are well fed and happy. With these tips in mind, you can rest assured that your outdoor summer event will be memorable for all the right reasons!

Would you like to contact a professional catering manager who can provide you with the most competitive pricing options for your upcoming event? Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 to request a free estimate for Peachtree City catering, today. We cater all events and occasions, no matter the size or scope.

How to Cater a Safe Outdoor Picnic in Spring

Posted on March 29, 2021 by cateringfft17

Spring has sprung! So, that means that outdoor activities are back in the books! One of the most favored pastimes are spring picnics, as they are a fantastic way to spend time outdoors with the people you love most. And to honor the privilege of keeping such good company, it is important to plan a safe picnic experience for everyone. Proper planning and preparation will ensure your picnic is both memorable and fun!

Continue reading for picnic catering tips you can use for your next Spring picnic or family day!

Atlanta Georgia Outdoor Catering Services 678-340-0510

Warm Weather Picnic Catering Tips

❶ Curate a Menu That Compliments the Season

When it comes to planning a picnic, the first step involves selecting a menu. Choose Spring-seasonal fresh foods, like ripe fruits and crispy vegetables. These are perfect for hot Spring days because they fuel you with energy rather than weigh you down, allowing the family to stay active and enjoy the day together. Also consider whole-grains and lots of protein-packed courses: like black bean salads or club sandwiches.

In-Season Spring Fruits and Veggies:

▻ Apricots
▻ Artichokes
▻ Asparagus
▻ Avocados
▻ Chives
▻ Fava Beans
▻ Fennel
▻ Leeks
▻ Mangoes
▻ Peas
▻ Pineapples
▻ Potatoes
▻ Rhubarb
▻ Spinach
▻ Watercress

❷ Select a Location Well-Suited for Outdoor Dining

Next, you will need to choose a suitable location. Be sure to choose an area with access to trashcans with lids, fresh running water, public restrooms, shady areas, clean grilling space, and tables. If you prefer a more relaxed version of picnicking without restrooms and tables, great! But the other commodities should really be sought after in terms of picnic location.

❸ Review Some Helpful Picnicking Tips and Tricks

The third step to planning a safe and enjoyable picnic is to follow the rest of the picnic catering tips below. And the first tip is to start the picnic planning process a few days in advance to coordinate the perfect family occasion. Here are some more tips for picnic catering and planning:

▷ Always wash your hands before, during, and after handling food.

▷ Pre-season and pre-patty burgers and raw meat before packing them.

▷ Do not thaw your meat on the counter at room temperature. Either thaw overnight in the fridge or cook from frozen.

▷ Keep raw food and prepared food in separate coolers. Keep drinks in a third cooler.

▷ Be sure to pack and plan for plenty of ice. Better yet, take a separate cooler just for clean ice.

▷ Bring enough utensils for cooking and dining. This includes plates and cups.

▷ Always pack hand soap and clean towels for handwashing and cleaning.

▷ NEVER leave food outside exposed to sun for more than 2 hours. Bring lids to cover dishes on the table.

▷ Keep all raw or cold food under ice, not on top.

▷ Be sure all raw meat is cooked to temperature. Bring a meat thermometer to check.

▷ Pack a big umbrella for extra shade on the ground.

▷ Pack a few blankets to sit on the ground, and a tablecloth for any picnic tables.

▷ Pack a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher.

▷ Bring plenty of drinking water for each person attending.

▷ Immediately pack up and put away unused food or leftovers. Throw away any contaminated or over-exposed food. If in doubt, throw it out!

▷ ALWAYS clean up the picnic site when done.

▷ For large-scale outdoor parties and events, consider professional catering services instead.

Do you have a large-scale picnic, family reunion, or corporate luncheon to plan in Georgia? If so, contact Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 to learn how our Newnan, GA caterers can make the large group catering process hassle-free, and ensure an enjoyable event.

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How to Safely Prepare Food Outdoors This Summer

Posted on June 26, 2020 by cateringfft17

Summer is the time for all sorts of outdoor cooking fun, like picnics in the park, backyard cookouts, campsite grilling, and more! These outdoor activities are all privileges we get to enjoy as a result of the beautiful Georgia summer weather. Although we Hoosiers love to cook outdoors, it is vital to remember how to safely prepare food for outdoor activities in order to protect others, especially in the sun and heat.

Continue reading to learn some important tips about safe outdoor food preparation and cooking, as well as, what you can do to make large-scale outdoor party planning much easier this season!

Outdoor Party Catering Services 678-340-0510

Keep Clean With Regular Hand Washing

This is the first and most obvious step to preparing food for people outside is washing your hands. Regular hand washing can ensure that you are not spreading any salmonella from raw meats, or germs from other places. Keep your hands clean while chopping fruits, handling raw meat, shaping burger patties, and mixing beverages.

Keep a Clean Workstation

On top of washing your hands, be sure to sanitize all your working stations. This means thoroughly cleansing cutting boards, tables, counter tops, and of course, dishware and utensils. Disease, bacteria, and viruses can easily be spread through dirty workstations. Using a clean wet rag dipped in a light sanitizing solution helps eliminate this possibility.

Properly Preserve Temperature

When serving food outdoors, especially buffet style occasions, it is crucial to keep certain categories of food at their appropriate temperatures to avoid food borne illnesses and food poisoning. For example, be sure cold foods such as fruits, vegetables, yogurts, dips, anything containing sour cream, cheese, or dairy, and beverages, remain on ice and cool. This prevents bacteria from growing and making someone sick, as well as, keeps your guests and family cool from the heat. Other vulnerable foods should be covered and protected from insects, leaves, bird droppings, and animals. Cover chips, side dishes, meat trays, and anything else that can be contaminated.

No Time for Outdoor Food Prep?

If outdoor cooking isn’t for you, no worries! You can still host a fun, outdoor family cookout and fun while keeping all food and buffet items indoors. There is never any fuss about making your plate indoors and eating outside to enjoy a nice summer evening. You can also hire a professional catering company and skip all the related responsibilities altogether. They will set coordinate every detail for you, down to food allergens, outdoor food temperature maintenance, linens, ice, and more.

Where to Find Trusted Outdoor Catering Services in Newnan, GA

Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for personalized outdoor catering services in Newnan, Georgia and its surrounding towns. Our expert catering coordinators and Executive chefs specialize in providing tailored menus and themes, and can bring your vision to life this summer. We can also accommodate special dietary requests and restrictions, including Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-free, food allergies, and kosher diets. Request a free quote while you still have time!