Event Planning
In designing your event we always include menu planning and food styling as part of our service. We are also always happy to share our experiences from the hundreds of weddings and parties we have catered and planned; we love to brainstorm new ideas to make a party pop. Just try and stop us!
Menu Planning & Food Styling
Our favorite part of the process is planning the menu with you! Created to match the fare to the event, the season, and your tastes. We will consider the location (is there an oven?), and personal desires (favorites, vegetarian, cultural). Styling the cuisine and presentation to set the mood or fit a theme, to explore the latest trends or work with your traditions.
Rentals & Event Layout
We arrange all the rentals you need from plates and forks to tents and dance floors. In our meeting we will discuss all the options and have many samples of the rentals and photos of past events to help us develop the look and feel of your event. It's even likely we know your venue and can advise you on the layout before we even visit the site.
Event Décor
Couches and coffee tables out on the lawn or under the trees, larger events are increasingly having décor items and special seating vignettes. We can recommend a good service, or make the arrangements for you.
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When should I start planning my event?
The earlier, the better. Large weddings and corporate events are often planned many months in advance, while smaller parties may only need a few weeks. If your event is on short notice, don't hesitate to call—we'll do everything we can to help.How much should I budget for catering?
Every event is different, but the biggest factors are your menu, guest count, staffing, rentals, beverages, and the length of the event. Our Cost Planning page provides more detailed information, but think $50 to $100 per person for a party, and $200ish for a wedding. We're always happy to prepare an estimate based on your plans.Do I need rentals?
Some events need only disposable serviceware, while others require china, glassware, tables, chairs, linens, serving equipment, tents, or dance floors. We'll help determine exactly what your event requires and coordinate rentals if needed.How much food should I plan for?
One of the benefits of working with an experienced caterer is that you don't have to guess. We'll recommend appropriate quantities based on your menu, guest count, and the type of event so you have plenty of food without unnecessary waste. -
Can you recommend other event professionals?
Yes. Over the years we've developed relationships with excellent florists, photographers, rental companies, DJs, cake designers, and many other event professionals. We're happy to share recommendations.What are the biggest mistakes people make when planning an event?
The most common mistakes are waiting too long to book key vendors, underestimating the time needed for setup, not allowing enough seating or serving space, overlooking dietary needs, and trying to make too many decisions at the last minute. Careful planning early in the process helps avoid nearly all of these issues.What service style is best?
Passed, buffet, served, or family style all work well. There are pros to each and we'll help you figure out what is best for you.What if I don't know where to start?
That's perfectly normal. Tell us about your event, your guests, and your budget, and we'll walk you through the planning process one step at a time. Helping people organize successful events is part of what we do.