Spotlight

10 Ways to Make Outdoor Events Memorable

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.

“If it’s not profitable, don’t do it!” advises Sandy Korem.

Plan for the New Year

If you survived 2020, I want to congratulate you. You were doing something right, whether it was saving cash to get you through the hard times or finding alternative revenue streams. And I want to encourage you to continue what you’ve been doing—while also searching for more ways to serve your food. Here are three reminders and tips to get you started.

A Pandemic Solutions technician demonstrates the use of a backpack electrostatic sprayer in a kitchen (courtesy of Pandemic Solutions).

Effectively Disinfecting Your Catering Business

During the COVID-19 pandemic, few industries suffered more from stringent safety rules and regulations than the catering sector. Governmental authorities, including state and local health departments, will continue to monitor and enact new disinfection laws and regulations that will be costly to the catering industry. Decision-makers must learn from the lessons of 2020 when it comes to cleaning and disinfecting their businesses.

Good Gracious! Events in Los Angeles serves individual servings of greens from a salad wall.

Safe Set-Ups

Whither the buffet? Due to safety concerns, this easy method of serving lots of guests has taken a hit since the advent of COVID-19. Foodservice operators have eliminated self-serve and buffets, according to a recent study by The Food Group (thefoodgroup.com).

Many caterers created takeout and delivery menus after the pandemic brought in-person events to a halt in 2020.

Catering Outlook for 2021

In the May/June 2020 issue, Catering Magazine asked seven seasoned caterers how they were “Weathering the Storm” in our cover story about the devastating business impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Chris Tucker owns Betta With Butta in Los Angeles.

Mixing It Up

Chris Tucker worked as a hair stylist for nearly a decade before pivoting to a baking career, drawing on a love instilled in him as a child by his Southern grandmother. A turn as a contestant on ABC’s “The Great American Baking Show” led him to opening Betta With Butta, a Los Angeles-based bakery.

Butler’s Pantry Micro Wedding

St. Louis-based Butler’s Pantry “has mastered the Pandemic Pivot—taking an event originally planned for hundreds and transforming it into a private ceremony for 50 or less,” says Bridget Bitza, vice president of sales and catering.

Last But Not Least

The pandemic has resulted in the postponement or cancellation of many full-sized weddings in 2020, but there is a sweet side.
Regardless of the severity of restrictions, which vary from state to state, caterers hosting micro and mini receptions everywhere are challenged to uphold safety protocols without extinguishing excitement—and often dessert is the lifesaver.

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