There are a lot of moving parts when it comes to planning a successful corporate event. From securing guest speakers to mapping out your event schedule, there are a few things that you must consider ahead of time if you want your event to go off without a hitch —and your catering menu is one of the most important! While most corporate events feature catering menus that range from simple continental breakfasts to multi-course sit-down dinners, there are several factors that come into play when deciding which catering style is right for your event.

Budget

Your budget will always be the most important factor in planning your catering menu — at least it should be. Whether you are planning your event by yourself or working with an event planner, you should always start by determining how much money you want to spend and how you plan on spending it. For example, if you have a fairly large budget, you may want to set aside a good portion of it to treat your guests to an elaborate buffet-style menu. On the other hand, if your budget is small, you may want to find corporate catering service in Philly that offers an affordable and delicious à la carte menu like Catering by Mario’s.

Diet and Lifestyle

When planning your event menu, it is important to consider the diets and lifestyles of your guests. Instead of selecting a menu that features three different types of chicken dishes but only one vegetable dish, make your menu deserve and balanced by offering a little something for everyone. Here are a few diets and lifestyles that you should consider when selecting your food items:

• Vegan
• Vegetarian
• Pescatarian
• Gluten-Free
• Keto
• Low Sodium

Event Schedule

Choosing the menu for your event can create a logistical nightmare. For example, if you select a buffet-style lunch for an event that only has a 20-minute intermission, your guests may not have enough time to enjoy all of the food offered. For events that feature short breaks, consider serving light hors d’oeuvres or box lunches that are quicker to eat. Events that offer longer dining times usually work well with larger buffets and formal multi-course sit-down style menus.

Need help planning your corporate event menu? Contact Philly’s best corporate catering company today, and we’ll help you create a delicious, one-of-a-kind dining experience for your guests.