Party Planning: Catering Options

Party Planning: Catering Options

Organizing your thoughts and ideas for your party eats is a must. Start meeting with caterers immediately (as in as soon as you've decided on a date for the party), but first fill in this checklist. It will be a helpful reference when consulting caterers.

CATERING BUDGET

Since caterers charge per head, divide your approximate number of guests into the amount you have set aside for catering. This will give you a sense of what you can afford.

MEAL

If you've already booked your site for a chunk of time, you probably already have the type of meal in question nailed down. If not, decide quick, then reserve a location for the appropriate time. Dinner is the party meal most commonly served, but the brunch or breakfast variety will cost less. Tea or cocktails are also affordable - and quite stylish - alternatives for *****s-only soirees.

Brunch/Breakfast

Tea

Lunch

Cocktails

Dinner

Dessert only

SERVICE

Think about the style of your event and let that guide your decision here. Most options are compatible with all degrees of party formality, though some differ dramatically in cost. Aim for your ideal and modify later (with advice from your caterer).

Cocktails

Passed hors d'oeuvres

Hors d'oeuvres tables

Seated Meal

Family style

American

French

Russian (white gloves)

Buffet

Formal (staff-served)

Casual (self-serve)

Food stations (e.g. raw bar, crepe table)

FLAVOR

Let your mind soar to the flavors you most fantasize about. When your taste buds have traveled the world over, try to categorize your ideas below.

Continental

Regional

Seasonal

Exotic

Ethnic

Thematic

COURSES

Map out your menu (and tame that food fetish) by ruling out courses that seem excessive and marking the ones that will make your meal completely mouthwatering.

Hors d'oeuvres

Soup

Fruit and cheese

Appetizer

Pasta

Dessert

Salad

Entree

REQUIREMENTS

Now it's time to think of the needs and preferences of some of your guests. Sauteed pork medallions or an all-beef barbecue may be music to your mouth, but considering your guests should be a top priority.

Kosher

Vegetarian

Halal

Other

ENTREES

Determining the main feature of the main course is just the beginning. Start with the basics, then let your caterer tempt your tummy with possible accompaniments.

Beef

Chicken

Vegetarian

Pork

Seafood

Lamb

Pasta