Best Plans Laid to Waste
As caterers, we’ve witnessed more than our fair share of corporate events that have gone wrong. In certain cases, the disasters were unpreventable. For instance, the time when a keynote speaker fell from a stage onto a table of unsuspecting guests or the sprinkler system at a major event venue went off without warning. The bottom line is that even the best laid out event plans can go to waste. Yet for every unpreventable corporate event disaster, there have been multitudes more that could have been avoided through basic planning. Below are our top 3 most basic corporate event catering tips to help event planners avoid a nightmare situation:
#1 Prepare a Timed Schedule
Before doing anything else, list out the exact timings of everything involved in the event. Include guest arrivals, decorations, scene changes, activities, speakers, service times for food, departure, etc. Doing so will help in two main ways. First, a solid schedule will help the organizer identify any gaps in the program, forgotten items or missing requirements. Second, it will help the caters better understand how long service times should be and allows for the setting up of equipment and food preparation. When preparing a schedule, also think whether you are trying to jam too much or too little into the time allotted. Unexpected delays or rushes will most certainly reflect badly on the event organizer.
#2 Do a Proper Headcount
The headcount for the event is the primary ingredient in order to devise a menu that fits in with your catering budget. Those numbers don’t need to be set in stone, but any changes should be updated with your caterer as the event draws near. Also it is always best to notify your cater of any last-minute attendees so they adjust quantities and serving staff if applicable. However, the best way to guarantee no last minute issues in terms of numbers is to assume more people will be coming than expected. Event attendees always notice when food and drink is scarce and always applaud abundance. No one wants to see a punch up over the last piece of chicken or to be found with an empty glass.
#3 Ask for Dietary Requirements
Failing to get the dietary requirements of attendees isn’t only disappointing, it can also prove deadly for attendees. Most dietary requirements stem from food intolerances, food allergies, or religious and cultural requirements. Not asking is a major mistake any decent planner should avoid. Worse still, it can make guests feel extremely uncomfortable or even alienated when food service does come around. Therefore, It is always best to ask guests about their dietary requirements as part of their RSVP. This way is a cheaper and more efficient option than trying to carry a menu that covers everyone’s needs.
Reach Out for Help
Anyone struggling to put together ideas for their corporate event should never hesitate to reach out for help. The team here at Dippin’ Dots Miami has years of experience in catering and can help plan and coordinate any upcoming events. Plus, our unique flash frozen ice cream, yogurts, and ices and other associated sweet and savory snack products also meet every dietary requirement and are guaranteed to put a smile on people’s faces. Whether it be a corporate away day, client event or dinner, or charity day, let’s plan it together. To get in touch email us at [email protected]
