Planning the perfect event takes a lot of organizing, down to the smallest detail. One of the most crucial components of a great event is choosing the right type of catering. Whether you’re hosting a wedding, corporate gathering, or family party, the catering style you choose affects the entire dining experience. There are several types of catering services; whichever you choose should align with your event’s needs and ambiance. Caterers like Rich’s Catering & Special Events and Catering By Green Turtle Inn & Kaiyo Grill offer a wide range of catering services that can be tailored even further to suit your specific event and needs.
Buffet Catering
Buffet catering is a classic, crowd-pleasing service option. Guests can serve themselves from a selection of dishes displayed on a table or a series of tables. This allows attendees to choose how much or how little of each dish they want, making it easy to cater to many different tastes and dietary preferences all at once. Buffets are great for more relaxed, social atmospheres like large parties, casual corporate events and weddings where the food focus is on variety and flexibility.
Plated Catering
Plated catering serves seated guests individual portions by a waitstaff. Each course is carefully prepared and presented, allowing for a structured dining experience that emphasizes visual appeal and excellent service. Because this service is more common for formal events, plated catering is best suited for upscale galas, weddings or corporate events where heightened attention to detail and culinary sophistication are paramount.
Cocktail Reception Catering
Cocktail reception catering involves serving guests small, bite-sized food options, often referred to as the French hors d’oeuvres. Attendees typically stand and socialize while eating. A full bar and beverage station is often paired with this service. Cocktail receptions often serve as a prelude to a main event, making them a popular choice for weddings, corporate functions, holiday parties, engagement celebrations or networking events.
Family-Style Catering
Family-style catering sees food served in large, communal dishes placed on a table for guests to pass and share. This creates a warm, inviting atmosphere reminiscent of dining at home with loved ones. A variety of dishes are typically offered, allowing everyone to sample dishes, similar to buffet style. Family style is especially popular for family parties, reunions, corporate retreats or rehearsal dinners.
Drop-Off Catering
Drop-off or off-premise catering is a convenient choice where the caterer delivers prepared food directly to your event location. The food is packaged and arranged for easy serving. Depending on the caterer you choose, set up and clean up may or may not be included in costs. This option is more budget-friendly than full-service catering with a waitstaff on site and is ideal for smaller, more casual events like office lunches or private parties.
Work With Professional Caterers
Rich’s Catering & Special Events in Buffalo, NY and Catering By Green Turtle Inn & Kaiyo Grill in Islamorada, FL offer a range of premier catering services. Serving events from large gatherings to intimate parties, both caterers can accommodate your exact needs. Check out their menus to learn more!