How to Streamline Efficiency for Big Event Catering

Streamlining efficiency for a big catering event is beneficial for many reasons. For starters, you can reduce costs in some instances. Another benefit of greater efficiency is guest satisfaction. The more streamlined your event, the more likely guests are to enjoy themselves. The tips below offer ways to boost efficiency for large catered events.

Assess Staffing Needs

When you have a big catering event, it’s important to make sure you have fully considered the amount of staffing needed. Although it’s important to be cost-conscious, it will be worth having an additional person or two on hand to make sure everything flows well. On the other hand, by taking a close look at what’s needed, there’s a chance that you’ll be able to eliminate some of the catering staff scheduled.

Have a Concise Event Schedule

Depending on the nature of the event, there may be a chance to streamline efficiency by tightening up the event schedule. The longer the event, the more you’ll end up spending on labor and the less efficient it’s likely to be. You might be able to combine the main course with the dessert so that the two are not provided separately. This will depend on whether it’s a seated catering event or self-service.

Limit Choices of Alcohol

While it can be nice to have an expanded bar, it’s more efficient to have a limited number of drink options. In fact, it’s been proven that people have a hard time making a decision when they have too many options. If you want to limit the selection without reducing the excitement, consider having a signature cocktail. This is an option that people tend to enjoy, especially since you can choose flavors that are seasonal. You can also choose to eliminate spirits and only offer wine.

Offer Smaller Portions

Regardless of whether you have a self-serve catered event or full-service, you can offer smaller portions as a way to make the process more efficient. If it’s a self-service situation, you can use smaller plates to achieve your desired goal. Just keep in mind that self-service is sometimes less efficient because it depends on the whims of the guests.

In addition to all of the tips provided, you should also choose the right venue with a focus on efficiency. Depending on the number of guests, the layout of the venue can make or break an event. Some caterers put the food in a single area, while others have the food located in several areas of the room. The venue should be able to comfortably accommodate the number of attendees expected and allow for space to layout the food in a way that’s most efficient.