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catering order guide
With our extensive experience in catering events of all types and sizes, we’d like to offer the following guide for you to use in planning your events!
consider the crowd.
Before ordering, consider the appetites you are serving. In our experience, for example, a retired ladies' luncheon would require a lighter menu than, say, a fraternity reunion dinner for middle-aged men. Demographics can make a difference, but you know your guests best!
when and...when?
Time of year, time of day, and event length are all things to keep in mind. The longer your event, the more folks will eat. And if your event lies at a ‘normal’ mealtime (breakfast, lunch, dinner), then be prepared to serve a full meal - or not...just let your guest know ahead of time! ↴
set the tone (before the table)
When you send out your invitation, make sure to communicate with your guests on what to expect for food. If they’re anticipating dinner and only get cake, you’ll have a hangry crew on your hands!
seasonal considerations.
If your event is outside in the heat of July, your guests may have a smaller appetite than during cooler months. Bump up the beverages and go light on bites. If your event is mid-winter, guests may come with a heartier appetite. Go for the heavier, warm dishes and consider some seasonal sweets!
where & how.
Where will your event take place? Keep in mind venue policies, offerings, and layout. Where will you serve items at the venue? Consider how much space you have to work with and how accessible the food will be for guests (don't hide the buffet line!).
How will you serve each item? Plan ahead to keep hot items hot and cold items cold! If you are serving hot items, consider chafing dishes*, avoid plastic tablecloths and/or bring hot pads to protect the tables!
*Visit AAA Party Rental for event rentals, if needed.
ordering hors d’oeuvres
Please note: in order to streamline our menus, each tray is approx. 36 bites.
Below you will find our suggested ordering quantities.
- suggested bites per person -
Event Type | Pieces/Person | Variety | Event Description |
|---|---|---|---|
Cocktail Hour [30-60 min. before dinner] | 2 - 4 | 2+ Items | A light snack before the main event: dinner! |
Pre-Meal Event [1.5-2 hours] | 4 - 6 | 3+ Items | A short event between ‘normal’ meal times. |
Heavy Hors D’oeuvres [2-4 Hour Event] | 8 - 10 | 4+ Items | A longer event between ‘normal’ meal times where people are grazing or coming in waves. |
Dinner Replacement [4+ Hour Event] | 12 - 15 | 6+ Items | A full blown meal! |
- menu items by popularity -
Approximate number of bites/servings we estimate each person will take per tray.
Based on mixed crowd of men and women with 3+ items.
0.5-1 Bite/PP | 1-2 Bites/PP | 2-3 Bites/PP |
|---|---|---|
Mediterranean Dip Trio | Tomato Bruschetta | Classic Italian Meatballs |
Veggie Crudites | Fruit & Cheese | Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms |
Goat Cheese Tartlets | Roasted Shrimp Cocktail | Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip |
Hummus Trio | Bacon-Wrapped Goat Cheese Dates | Beef Tenderloin Crostini |
Cranberry Cheese Ball* | Peach Bruschetta* | Americana Charcuterie |
Baked Brie* | Shrimp Cocktail | Sandwich Sliders [3-4 Bites/PP] |
Goat Cheese Dates | Spinach Artichoke Mushrooms | |
Desserts | ||
Seasonal Fruit |
*seasonal
ordering example.
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Event Details:
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2-4 PM (Pre-Meal Event)
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50 Guests
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On the invite: "Join us for light eats & drinks"
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Menu Picks:
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Goat Cheese Tartlets
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Tomato Bruschetta
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Classic Italian Meatballs
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Recommended Order Quantities:
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Total of ~4 bites/pp
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(1) Tray of Tartlets
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(2) Trays of Bruschetta
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(3) Trays of Meatballs
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1 tray =
36 bites
