Small events by no means have to compromise on big ideas. With a reduced party size, the possibilities for a more customised and unique catered event are endless, focusing on more simple but delicious courses that are sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests.
In this blog, we will explore the ideal approach to catering for small events, how to plan a menu, tips for streamlining your service, and some simple but delicious food suggestions from Robert & Victor.
Choosing simplicity over complication
One of our biggest tips when catering to a small event is prioritising simplicity. With a reduced number of guests, the opportunity to provide a more personalised and customised experience makes for a more memorable event for your guests without overwhelming the host. Choosing simplicity over complication provides numerous benefits, such as:
- More Cost-Effective: Valuing a menu that is simple but effective means minimising waste and helps keep expenses down.
- Efficient Preparation and Service: A simple menu means less time preparing, setting up and serving, and more time enjoying the event and engaging with guests.
- Customisation: With a smaller headcount, the room for customisation is available with individual guest needs catered for, as opposed to larger events where the masses over the individual are prioritised.
Understanding Your Audience
As with any event, planning is crucial to success. One of the benefits of catering to a smaller event, however, is the ability to take the time to understand your guests’ needs and preferences.
Before delving into your menu design, it is important to gather information about your event:
- Event Type: What is the nature of your event? Is it a formal networking event or a more casual office party for a small team? The occasion may dictate what type of food you serve; for example, networking events may favour canapés or bowl food, and business meetings and conferences may favour a buffet-style menu for guests to pick and choose as they please.
- Guest Preferences: With a smaller event, it is important to understand your guests’ preferences, in particular, dietary requirements. Find out if any guests are vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, etc, or if there are any food allergies you should be aware of. Taking the time to understand your guests will not only mean everyone is catered for, but your guests will appreciate feeling included, making for a more memorable event.
- Venue: For your event to run smoothly, it can be helpful to consider your venue and the time of the event. Will the event be outdoors or indoors? How long will the event run? These are key considerations for any event.
Planning Your Menu
Now, it’s time to plan your menu. With all other key aspects considered, here are some elements we would recommend including in your menu:
Canapés or Hors d’Oeuvres
Including canapés in your menu can be a great way to welcome your guests and keep them satisfied before the main courses are dished out. Canapés should be small but delicious bite-sized food options that set the tone for the event. Consider options such as:
- Chorizo, Mozzarella & Cherry Tomato Skewers
- Red Tapenade & Cherry Tomato on Fresh Baguette (Vegan Friendly)
- Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese Cracker
- Stuffed Vine Leaves (Vegan)
Another option is to serve a charcuterie board. Charcuterie boards are a great way to serve a variety of food options without the need to individually serve. Guests can pick and choose as they please, making it an ideal option for networking events and smaller parties where guests are mingling.
At Robert & Victor, we provide a variety of charcuterie boards that are suitable for all guests, including a meat board, cheese board, and vegan board.
Eager to know more about charcuterie boards? Read our latest blog, ‘Crafting the perfect charcuterie board for corporate events’.
Main Courses
For smaller events, the most popular catering option is a buffet-style spread. With the needs and preferences of your guests in mind, pick a variety of options that will appeal to your guests’ palates. Buffets are usually preferred as they can be prepped ahead of time, leaving less room for error and more time for socialising. Some great buffet options include:
- Classic Buffet: A mixed selection of mini-ciabattas with classic fillings, a choice of two different salads, crisps, and cookies.
- Gourmet Buffet: A classic buffet with the addition of gourmet sides such as chicken tikka skewers, cheese platters, and mini cheesecakes.
At Robert & Victor, our buffet options are perfect for smaller events. We can cater to your guest count, providing the ideal amount of food to ensure everyone is satisfied.
Want to learn more about our event catering services? Get in touch today with our expert team.
Desserts
A selection of delicious desserts is the perfect way to round out a successful event. For smaller events, choose a select few options that are easy to serve and enjoy, such as:
- Brownie Bites or Vegan Ginger Crunch Bites
- Fruit Salads
- Belgian Chocolate Mini Cheesecakes or Vegan & Gluten-Free Cheesecakes with Raspberry Drizzle
Drinks Catering
For most events, drinks are as important as the food. When catering to a small event, providing a simple but varied drinks menu can elevate your event to the next level. With your guest’s needs taken into account, provide beverages such as:
- Alcoholic beverages: Provide a couple of options for each type of alcohol. Perhaps 1 variety for each type of wine, one lager, one IPA, and some of the essential spirits, like vodka, whiskey and gin. A great idea could be to pick one cocktail for the event, meaning guests can enjoy a more elegant drinks experience without spending lots of time crafting various complicated drinks.
- Non-Alcoholic beverages: A select variety of non-alcoholic options is important for those guests who may not drink. Think fresh juices, fizzy options, or alcohol-free drinks.
- Tea and Coffee
At Robert & Victor, we specialise in more than just food catering. We also offer a mobile bar hire option to bring the whole bar experience to you. With our expert and professional service staff, our mobile bar is sure to impress your guests and leave a lasting impression on your event.
Tips for Streamlining Your Catering
Plan
Planning for an event is arguably the most important aspect. Gather all the information you may need regarding your venue, guests, and menu to ensure everything runs smoothly on the day.
Opt for Simplicity
As well as planning, choosing a simple but delicious menu is the best way to guarantee a successful event. Opt for a self-serve-style event with canapés and buffets.
Remember Portion Sizes
For smaller events, portion sizes are key to keeping expenses down. Carefully consider how much food you will need to provide to ensure your guests are satisfied.
Choosing a Catering Company
If you are hosting a smaller event, you may think providing food and drink is much easier than when hosting a larger party. The truth is, smaller events can often feel more stressful due to considering the individual needs of each guest rather than catering to the masses.
Hiring a professional catering company can help alleviate the stress of an event while maintaining a high standard of service that is sure to wow your guests.
Robert & Victor is your ideal partner in providing bespoke catering services across Manchester. With years of experience in a variety of sectors, we can take the reins on planning, preparation and execution, allowing you more time with your guests.
Interested in finding out more about our services? Contact us today to speak with a member of our expert team and let us help you in delivering the perfect catered experience for your small event.
