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Catering on a Budget
Creativity can be just as important as the actual food being served. Planners looking for ways to stretch their budgets should consult with the catering department to come up with creative cost-saving menus.
Interactive cooking stations have become popular in place of the traditional sit-down dinners. Attendees have the opportunity to explore different food stations and interact with colleagues. By allowing the attendees to create their own plates, labor costs will decrease.
Catering experts can bring an added value to an event. Use a sommelier to choose an affordable wine, while providing wine information to the group. Have the Chef speak to the group about his preparation leaving the attendees with useful information.
Having the Chef help you choose foods that are in season helps reduce the cost and provides a more flavorful selection.
One-plate meals have also become popular. The courses are presented on one plate in individual containers. This is a great twist on traditional plated meals that look appetizing, offer smaller portions to attendees and often saves the client up to 20%.
“Banquetology” a concept developed by Crowne Plaza Melbourne Oceanfront in Florida combines three trends: right-sized portions, a variety of options and great food presentations. Ordering mini-sizes or tapas menus are becoming a hit. This creates a healthier option for attendees while cutting cost and waste.
Make sure your food is appealing and worth the value, attendees will remember the food!
Source: Sucessful Meetings, March 2010
