Successful caterers and event planners know how to execute events in the most challenging of locations but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. From weather to difficult terrain to Murphy’s Law – anything that can go wrong will go wrong – obstacles abound. To help you overcome them, we’ve gathered tips from two seasoned pros as well as product ideas to help you score big at your next off-premise event.
The days of getting wrapped up in faux fur to drink vodka and party at a “cool” ice bar in an igloo are so pre-COVID! Now we party in the great outdoors no matter how cold (or hot) it is—and have found creative and fun ways to do it, thanks to a pandemic. While COVID may be lurking in the background, we’ve moved on and are embracing the opportunity to party outdoors any chance we get!
Starry skies, dappled sunlight, fragrant flowers, gentle breezes—outdoor events come with an innate ambience. Yet even natural beauty can be enhanced. We asked event planners from across the country to share the ways they’re making events in the great outdoors even more memorable.
When the Plant Based Foods Association proclaims that “The future is plant-based,” it may sound self-aggrandizing.
If you were looking for advice about what to do after the catering-and-events industry came crashing down in 2019, perhaps you tuned into “Behind The Veil.”
Ring the bells and strike up the band—big weddings are back, and couples are getting ready to splurge as they tie the knot. “Our 2022 clients are ready to celebrate in a big way!” says Amy Ackerman, owner of JDV Occasions in Atlanta.
Every off-premise location is different, and each will have its own difficulties and opportunities. While an off-premise event may lead to some of the most challenging situations event professionals may find themselves in, it can also provide benefits, such as fewer restrictions regarding arrival and set-up times, as well as more opportunities to be creative.
For many, the outdoor events of this summer will be the first time they’re reconnecting with friends and family in over a year. “They’re going to be so happy they’re getting together, why not experiment?” asks Edward Perotti, owner of Edward Perotti Events & Experiences, who’s created events for the likes of Ariana Grande and Nick Jonas.
Known for its sustainable seafood and Southern hospitality, Truluck’s in The Woodlands, Texas, transformed into a Winter Wonderland for this 75-guest holiday party on Dec. 6, 2019. The event is one of five nominees for Catered Event of the Year in the 2020 NACE One Awards (in the on-premise, budget $50,000-$100,000 category).
Centerplate hosted its 15th Super Bowl on Feb. 2 at Hard Rock Stadium. For Super Bowl LIV, the company employed more than 3,000, including 20 executive chefs, and utilized nine kitchens to serve concourse concessions as well the stadium’s luxury private suites and all-inclusive clubs.
