Whether you are ringing in the holidays or celebrating summer, company parties are a great way to relax with your coworkers. If you are in charge of party planning, you want to make this experience enjoyable for everyone. And, this starts with the catering.

Do:

Know who is attending. 

By requiring your team to RSVP, you will know who is attending well before the party. Be sure to ask about any allergies as well. You can then give the catering company a clear headcount and alert them of any special dietary needs. At the actual party, everyone will have plenty of food to eat that accommodates their preferences.

Book in advance. 

If you have a specific date and caterer in mind, book the party as early as possible. This could be as soon as a year before for the holiday season. Otherwise, be willing to be flexible on the date. While many caterers will be fully booked on the weekends, they may have weekday availability. You might consider a lunch picnic for your party rather than a weekend get-together. 

Don’t:

Leave set-up until the last minute.

Placing food and drinks in the right spots creates a convenient experience for your coworkers. Set up early to place the food in a logical order, encouraging the flow of the buffet line. For example, put the salads first followed by the main courses. You should then walk through the food and drink area to make sure everything is in reach and in its proper place. 

Hide your expectations. 

Remember that your caterer wants you to have the best possible experience. So, communicate all of your needs and expectations clearly. For example, don’t hesitate to tell the caterer the exact time that you need the order ready by, rather than telling them a vague block of time. They want to ensure that you are feeling calm during the party preparations.

If you need catering and party trays for your special event, call the team at Dale’s Market & Deli in Elyria, OH. This grocery store has been a community staple for over 50 years, and owner Dale Strnad continues their tradition of quality and customer service. They offer fresh produce, delicious baked goods, freshly cut meat, and other grocery items to keep your family satisfied. To learn more about their store and catering services, visit them online. You can also call (440) 365-6551 with any questions.