1. Identify some preferred dates and times.
2. Determine the total of expected guests. This is an extremely important question because you don’t want to end up with a venue that is too large or, worse yet, too small. You can prepare a preliminary guest list and discuss this with others who are also involved in organizing your event in order not to forget anyone.
3. Identify the type of occasion this will be:
· Do you prefer formal, casual or contemporary styles?
· Does the event have a theme?
· Will it be indoors or outdoors (or both)?
4. Determine the flow of the event. For example, do you want cocktails and hors d’oeuvres followed by dinner? Will there be dancing or even a presentation?
5. Identify the type of catering needed:
· Breakfast, Lunch, Brunch, Dinner, Cocktails
· Passed or stationed hors d’oeuvres
· Plated or Buffet-style Dinner
6. Budget – how much have you allocated for:
· The use of the venue
· Food
· Beverages (all alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks)
· Service – servers, bartenders, greeters
· Rentals – (chairs, tables, plates, glasses, utensils, linen, chafing dishes, dance floors)
· Other entertainment such as a DJ or even a belly dancer
· Parking – valet service or self-serve parking
7. Now you have enough information to select a venue. Here are a few questions you may ask:
· What dates and times do they have available
· Are there any restrictions on the consumption of alcohol
· Are there any restrictions on the heating of food
· Are there any restrictions on the attendance of children
· Are there any time limitations
· Is there ample parking for guests – is valet parking provided (included?)
· Is there a deposit requirement – if so, do they have a contract stipulating a cancellation policy
· The availability of nearby overnight accommodations for out-of-town guests
· Are there restrictions on décor, flower placement or candles
· Are there any restricted areas which are off-limits to guests
Jeannetti’s Catering is here to help you organize your special event - from finding the perfect venue, to rentals, beverage service (cocktails to gourmet coffee carts), to servers and bartenders, and of course, catering.
Book your holiday party by September 30th and you’ll receive a 10% discount on catering of your special event.
Contact us to inquire about catering and event planning services. We look forward to hearing from you.