Catering Options
So, the family is getting together for a reunion and you're in charge of the food. Don't panic! A simple way to ease the work of feeding your crowd is to hire a caterer.
Do a Little Homework
alternative to cooking for
your crowd.
Before you pick up the phone to call a caterer, spend some time thinking through your reunion. Start by answering these questions:
1. How many people will be there? How many of them are children?
2. Where will you hold the gathering? Outdoors at a park or on the beach? In a shelter house? At a hotel meeting room? At someone's home?
3. What style of service do you prefer? Keep in mind that buffet service or food stations (main dishes are set up at one station, beverages at another, and desserts at a third) are the most practical for large groups and help encourage mingling. A sit-down meal limits people to talking to just the few guests around them.
4. What type of food would you prefer? Barbecue? Ethnic such as Mexican, Italian, or Asian? Home-style? Sophisticated?
5. What is your budget?
6. How much service do you want the caterer to provide? Do you want the caterer to do it all? Or do you just want the caterer to prepare the food, and you'll take care of the setup, serving, and cleanup?
