How to Find Affordable Catering (and Keep it Delicious)

Whether you are hosting an office event or backyard BBQ, the decision to hire Affordable Catering can save you a significant amount of time. Many people find that the words affordable and catering rarely go together. At Waterfront Gourmet, we know that isn’t true, and what we also know is affordable catering can still be incredibly delicious!

As best we can, the team at Waterfront Gourmet Catering & Event tries to assist customers with an order to keep costs low and within a budget. No matter where you decide to get your catering, these tricks and tips can save you a significant amount of money on your catering costs. 

Get an Accurate Headcount
There are certain times when it is impossible to determine the exact number of people attending an event, but setting up a registration beforehand or requiring people to respond by email can certainly help. Most corporate and office events are requiring employees to respond on Monday for events later in the week, or not attend. Small tactics like these can help you get an accurate headcount and not waste money on food for no-shows. 

Also, remember that your caterer should be flexible. If you had significant changes in your numbers, call and discuss the changes. We don’t want to see uneaten food thrown away either. 

Control the Duration of Your Event
Often, the longer an event, the more people will want to eat. By keeping an event short and sweet, you are more likely to keep guests and attendees from indulging in a third sandwich or go back for a second helping of sides. Proper scheduling of speakers or activities will also allow you to order the right amount of catering without accounting for people who graze afterward. 

If you can’t directly control the timing or duration of an event, then another way to keep catering affordable is simply set the timeframe for food to be served and removed. Therefore, even if your event is running from 11:00 am until 4:00 pm, simply bring out lunch at 12:00 pm and have it cleared away by the 1:00 pm mark. Besides saving you on costs for over ordering, this can also help run the event smoothly. 

Don’t Be Afraid to Keep an Event Relaxed 
Sometimes hosts feel pressure to make an event as big and over-the-top as possible, but that isn’t always the best option, and it is rarely a good option for keeping your catering within your expected budget. Instead, it can help your costs, and the overall atmosphere of your event, to keep it relaxed. In the summer months a simple, laid back event can earn you kudos from guest attendees. 

As the weather is warm and sunny, most event guests are happy to simply be outside or sipping on a refreshing beverage. Play to the season, and keep your catering options simple, light, and relaxed. Even as the weather changes, you can usually apply some of the same principles. 

Look for a Catering Company that Serves up the Trends 
It can be a huge cost-cutting measure to eliminate some of the more expensive menu offerings from a caterer, in exchange for their seasonal special or take on the latest trend. These dishes are often prepared with seasonal ingredients that can enhance the theme or tone of your event but do not have the same price tag as upscale options. 

Alternatively, look for a caterer that places emphasis on delivering fresh, delicious food, instead of a swanky experience. Chances are unless you are looking to serve a four-course meal, people will find accessible, natural food more appealing anyway!

At Waterfront Gourmet Catering & Event we always try to provide an affordable catering experience. Visit our website or call our catering line at (267) 308-5108. 

For more information about how to find Best Catering Company and Deli Food Suppliers Near Me.