Things You Must Consider When Food Planning for Your Party
Posted: Friday, November 06, 2009
by Roger Blair
http://www.partyplanningmagic.com
The menu is often the prime focus of many parties. Your party will be a big hit if the food is great. Therefore, food party planning is one of the most important parts of party planning. As host within the constraints of your budget, make it a goal to include menu items that will be savored by all. Here are some things to consider:
First decide the type of party. Will it be a sit-down dinner, buffet or cocktail party? A dinner party requires a full meal, whereas a cocktail party requires just finger foods and drinks. A buffet is less formal, so a table with ingredients where guests can make sandwiches may suffice. It could contain cold cuts, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, bread or rolls, condiments and drinks. Also, if it is a themed party, your menu should harmonize with the theme.
Even if you are hiring a caterer, shop around. You will find a variety of great food options and pricing. Also, your caterer may have some great new things with which you could really delight your guests with something both unique and flavorful. Also, you may save time and learn more about the options offered by checking out the websites of local caterers.
It is always good to include a variety of foods at your party. You may have guests from various ethnic backgrounds who may not want to try new things. Others may have food allergies or be on health-related diets. Provide a variety of food options and everyone should be able to find something they can eat, and thus you will keep everyone happy. You may want to ask guests in advance if you suspect they have food restrictions.
Once you decide the menu, make a list of all the foods, drinks, paper goods, utensils, condiments, dishes, pots and pans, etc. that you will need, including estimated quantities of each. This is good party planning procedure. It will help you organize your purchases, rentals, help, and food prep timeline.
Also, if it is a large party, make sure the food is prepared in a clean environment, with clean hands, serving dishes and utensils. This is important if you are renting a facility that provides a kitchen, dishes, equipment and utensils. You may need to clean such items before use. You do not want your party spoiled by food poisoning. Better safe than sorry. Also, make sure foods like pork are well cooked. You may actually pre-cook certain things, then re-heat them before the party begins.
Writing down a food prep timeline is also important. For example for a large gathering try to have your menu decided four to six weeks before the event. Pick up non-perishable foods as early as three to four weeks ahead of time, as well as the buying, renting or borrowing of various utensils and supplies. Don't wait until the last minute when you will have plenty of other things to do.
Another piece of advice is don't think you can do it alone! If the budget allows for a bartender or a caterer great, but many times the more practical approach is to ask family members and friends to help with the food prep. Don't be embarrassed to ask. Remember, many hands make light the work. Those who can't help will let you know, but others will be more than happy to help out.
Food party planning and preparation takes time, effort and dedication. However, if done well and your food proves to be both ample and delicious, your party is sure to be a success. Your guests will be delighted, and for you nothing can be more satisfying than knowing that your careful planning and days of hard work have resulted in a very successful party.
Roger Blair is a teacher and party planning enthusiast who delights in teaching others how to put magic into their parties. Roger's book "Party Planning Magic How to Plan a Perfect Party?" contains an excellent detailed chart showing quantities of food to prepare for a large party. It shows meats (roast beef to hot dogs), all kinds of vegetable quantities, bread, cheese, coffee, desserts, soup to nuts and much more. To learn more about the ebook click the following http://www.partyplanningmagic.com/ppm.html .
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