Many factors go into planning a business event, but organizers often encounter a dilemma when it comes to catering. How much food should you order? Too much food is wasteful, but you don’t want attendees to be left feeling hungry. Here’s a closer look at how you can settle on the right amount for your event’s needs. 

What to Consider When Ordering Food for a Corporate Event

How Long Will the Event Last?

Is your meeting a day-long seminar with multiple breaks or only an hour-long lunch? Longer events will require more food while shorter occasions only need one catered meal. For day-long seminars, plan for breakfast, snacks accommodating at least two breaks, and lunch. 

Who Will Attend?

Gather a list of expected attendees so that you have a reasonable idea of how many people will expect food. Prior to the event, ask attendees to RSVP with their preferences and special requests before you speak with the catering company about the menu.

For example, some are vegetarians while others have specific food allergies. This information can help you finalize the menu. Depending on the length and type of event, plan for each person to consume up to three drinks, four appetizers, 5 ounces of protein, and 4 ounces of side dishes. 

What Type of Food Are You Ordering?

The type of food can impact how much is needed for your event. Vegetarian meals and salads aren’t as filling as Italian or Mexican dishes, so you’ll need to plan for an additional 5–6 ounces per person.

Corporate events are often somewhat formal occasions, so avoid organizing a barbecue. It may be a crowd pleaser, but it can be messy. Table service is better suited to speeches and meetings, while a more casual meet-and-greet affair might do well with a self-serve buffet.

A corporate caterer can help you choose a menu that accommodates special requests while offering food items that appeal to the majority. Corporate Caterers Atlanta offers corporate and business catering services throughout the metro area and has the experience to help you plan a full menu for your event. Their in-house culinary experts can prepare full-fledged breakfast and lunch meals or assorted snacks and appetizers. Call (770) 649-4721 to request a consultation or learn more about their services by visiting their website.