Pat Christofolo
Christopher Collins
Jennifer Russo
only does this catering style help control costs, but it also provides a more cozy, inclusive ambiance. As for large-scale holiday events, buffet meal service often works well. “For larger parties with a budget in mind, we suggest sticking to a buffet and limiting the food selection,” Collins says, “while adding a few stations around the venue to help move guests around and keep them mingling.” If you’re looking for additional ways to help massage the budget, think about re-imagining a traditional sit-down dinner with these suggested alternatives from Jennifer Russo, owner and chef of Jennifer’s Catering. “Outsource your own plasticware and flatware,” Russo says. “Or, have appetizer stations instead of a full dinner buffet. Or, if it’s a late evening event, then just provide a dessert bar. Large events can be much cheaper if you only serve wine and beer for the bar instead of having a full bar with all the liquors.” Russo’s last point is something for which many caterers unanimously agree: Alcohol is a holiday-budget buster. “Our first suggestion to anyone hosting an event is to control the bar offerings,” Collins says. “Costs won’t skyrocket with the food, but it can easily get out of hand with bar provisions. We suggest focusing on a modest selection of craft beer and West Coast wines and leaving out the expensive liquors.” Not-so-secret Santas Although employees deemed with the responsibility of holiday party prep know many of the ins and outs of catering, there are some services for which they may not be aware. “We offer pick-ups, deliveries, delivery set-ups and full-service events,” Russo says. “So if you missed the mark on your fullservice event, don’t have your guests go hungry. If you are trying to be cost-effective, try our pick-up option.” “We pride ourselves on truly making every event a custom experience, from flower arrangements to holiday decorations, and more,” Collins adds. “We have a team available to make any vision come true. That’s beneficial when the party planner might have other areas of responsibilities and can’t afford to make goodie bags or individual place settings.” Beyond special add-ons and services, catering companies also have unique offerings. Take, for example, Common Ground Culinary’s ice cream cart, which serves handmade ice cream from Sweet Provisions. “We offer upgrades to our culinary stations to include interactive chef-action items,” Christofolo says, “such as flaming desserts, salad walls, and more to create excitement at an event. If you have a specific theme, sharing it with the catering company can help create a special look for the culinary stations. “Our event producer also knows all of the current event trends and can help book entertainment or photo opportunities,” Christofolo says. With all that holiday party planning demands, why not delegate whatever tasks you can? Remember to ask your caterer if they provide set-up, cleaning, trash service and whatever other requirements you wish to get off your plate. And, be sure to verify whether there is an additional fee. AB | November - December 2019 37