All posts by Jami Heward

happy people enjoying catered food
Corporate Catering

Great Options for Your Upcoming Christmas Party

The Christmas and winter holidays are a wonderful time to celebrate with family, friends, and co-workers, so you can expect a busy season in 2019. If you’re in charge of planning any events from November through January, you might already be thinking about ideas on how to throw an unforgettable fete. However, time is running short. You’ll need to start setting up, the venue, New York holiday and event catering services, and many other details. For some inspiration, check out some options that are sure to put your guests in the mood.

Breakfast or Brunch:

You may not be able to fully replicate the joy of Christmas morning, but you can at least start with a good hearty meal. Most catering companies have a range of choices, from a light continental or oatmeal breakfast to a filling brunch with frittatas, quiches, and an array of tasty meats. If you want to treat your guests to an elegant morning, you might opt for smoked salmon with all the accoutrements or English tea sandwiches. You might consider fruit juice mimosas for a festive affair, but don’t forget the coffee if your event is work-related.

Christmas Carnival:

In many ways, the holidays are about the joy of being a child. There’s perhaps nothing more iconic about being a kid than going to the local carnival, street fair, or festival. Cotton candy, pretzels, hot dogs, mini sandwiches, and many other treats will bring back the days of walking down the carnival fairway. When you add fantastic Christmas décor, you can be sure the crowd will get into the holiday spirit. With the right planning and consultation with your caterer, you can create a fantastic winter wonderland that guests will remember for years to come.

Holidays in the Tropics:

The days are short and the weather is cold around New York come Christmastime, but there are ways to take your event attendees to a tropical paradise. Consider treating them to a day at the beach, Caribbean BBQ-style. For this Christmas-themed event, kabobs are a fun finger-food that enables your guests to mingle with other beach-goers. Jerk-seasoned meat and chicken skewers will fill the room with the amazing aroma of the tropics, and spicy peppers provide warmth. You can trust sides like coleslaw and potato salad to cool off the heat.

Just Desserts:

While you may not think about doing a sweets-only catered event the rest of the year, the holidays are a time to indulge. Plus, if you’re the one preparing the traditional Christmas dishes, you owe it to yourself to get a break when it comes to dessert. Fortunately, the range of catering options is substantial and varied. You might consider: 

  • Beautifully decorated cookie, brownie, and cupcake platters;
  • Exotic choices, like churros, Italian pastries, and baklava;
  • A table scape of French delicacies;
  • Healthy fruit skewers; or,
  • Go simple with a design-your-own ice cream sundae bar.

Of course, if your Christmas time event is a wedding, there’s nothing better than chocolate dipped strawberries to set the mood for romance.

Warm Up with Seasonal Soups:

Hot, liquid sustenance is a staple throughout the cold months, which is why it stands to reason that soups are ideal for holiday festivities in New York. Manhattan caterers offer a multitude of seasonal options fit for any appetite, nutritional preference, cuisine, or style. Warm your guests up with:

  • Split pea, carrot, mushroom barley, and other vegetable soups;
  • Hearty, creamy soups featuring asparagus, broccoli, and tomato; and,
  • Seasonal favorites like butternut squash and pumpkin.

 A Hometown Celebration:

People come from all over the world to enjoy Christmas in the Big Apple, but many are lucky enough to call NYC home at this special time of year. Celebrate your city during the holidays by putting the spotlight on the traditions and cuisine you love. The most popular Christmas meal options are also the most stress-free when you cater deli meats, fantastic breads, cheesecake, and other favorites. Have your guests put together their own creations, stacked high with cheeses, lettuce, pickles, tomatoes, and other accompaniments.

 Contact Us Today about Christmas Catering in Manhattan

 These are just a few ideas on how you can make a Christmas even special with food, beverages, and other aspects of the holiday experience. If you’d like to know more about how a catering professional can help, please contact the Manhattan office of Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering & Events. We can set up a consultation to review your objectives and outline plans for a memorable affair.

Holiday Catering

Thanksgiving Dinner by Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering

While food is an attractive for almost every holiday, few would dispute that the meal is the main attraction when it comes to Thanksgiving. There are countless age-old traditions associated with the festivities in the US, but plenty of new institutions have also crept into the holiday picture over the years. Anyone involved in planning an event must consider a wide range of options that will make a memorable impression on guests. When you retain New York holiday and event catering services, you have an edge on achieving this objective. A few Thanksgiving dinner ideas should get you started.

  1. Thanksgiving in Sandwich Form:

    For many people, the best part of Thanksgiving is the meals you make with the leftovers – especially the iconic turkey sandwich with all the accompaniments. There’s no reason to wait for this indulgence when you retain caterers who can deliver up the sliced bird, along with everything else that makes it a classic. In many ways, turkey sandwich service is even better. It’s freshly sliced and you’ll have a wider range of bread options, such as country, rustic, rye, whole-wheat seeded, wraps, any many more. You can also choose ham, roast beef, and roasted vegetables.

  1. Parade-Viewing and Passed Hors D’oeuvres:

    People consume a massive amount of food people at celebrations throughout the Thanksgiving weekend; some even have multiple meals during the 24 hours of the official holiday. If you’re adventurous, you might consider going light with appetizers in an open house style setting. It’s definitely different, but many of your guests will appreciate the chance to make a toast and nibble on a few bites – rather than sit down for an hours-long affair. Turn on the Macy’s Day Thanksgiving Parade, hire professionals to cater, and enjoy a casual, laid back event.

  1. Let the Pros Do the Cooking:

    When you want someone else to take the lead on every aspect of the Thanksgiving dinner, you can trust New York caterers to deliver everything down to the cranberry relish. Your holiday planning consists of consultation with a catering professional, explaining your needs, and then sitting down to relax as you entertain your guests. Many companies offer a build your own dinner buffet, featuring such options as:

  • Slow roasted turkey, ham, beef, or seafood;
  • Seasonal vegetables, prepared according to your choosing;
  • Different starch options, including mashed or baked potatoes, rice pilaf, pasta, and others;
  • Vegetable and starch salads;
  • Artisan breads;
  • Dessert; and,
  • Beverage service.

The best part is that plates, silverware, service, and related necessities are usually covered with a full service meal.

  1. Channel Your Inner Snoopy:

    Old school Peanuts fans remember “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving,” in which the hapless hero got help from his trusty beagle in fixing up Thanksgiving for friends. On the menu: Popcorn, accompanied by buttered toast, and other garnishes. This classic cartoon gets an upgrade with a popcorn machine themed event, another option that takes the holiday in a totally different, unexpected direction. Plus, steamy kernels covered in butter, cheese, caramel, and other toppings are nice for munching while watching football.

  1. Think Outside the Box:

    As much as we all love it, there may come a time when you crave something that’s distinctly NOT Thanksgiving. Asian fusion food provides a welcome departure. The distinctive flavors and tang are a pleasant departure from the rich, creamy foods associated with a turkey dinner. For example, sushi is a unique, communal experience that gets people in the holiday spirit. In addition, passed appetizers, such as shumai and other Asian dumplings, are easy as finger food. 

  1. Focus on the Sweets:

    If you’re determined to handle the bulk of the Thanksgiving dinner details on your own, nothing should stop you. But once you’ve prepared and carved the turkey, stirred the gravy, and cooked up all the sides, dessert may be the last thing from your mind. Since oven and stove space is usually at a minimum, let someone else do the work. Caterers can work out seasonal or custom menus for your holiday meal, complete with:

  • A cookie platter;
  • Brownies;
  • Festive cupcakes;
  • Exquisite pastries;
  • Fruit skewers; and,
  • Many other favorites.

Our Manhattan Thanksgiving Catering Professionals Can Assist with All Your Holiday Needs

No matter you envision the perfect Thanksgiving dinner for your event, you can count on a skilled catering company to make your dream a reality. To learn about your Thanksgiving dinner options and get more ideas, please contact Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering & Events. We can schedule a consultation to tell you more about our professional services.

New York Catering Company Food
Blog

What is Commercial Catering?

Unless you’re in the catering industry and dealing with related topics on a daily basis, you may not know that there are actually different types of services in this area. One key distinction involves commercial versus non-commercial catering, as there are reasons you might opt for one over the other. Generally speaking, commercial catering puts you in control over the product and service, instead of having important decisions made for you by an intermediary person or entity. However, there are many additional factors involved with the comparison. You can discuss your needs and get the specifics from New York commercial catering services, but an overview may also be useful. 

Comparing Commercial and Non-Commercial Catering

The main difference between the two is choice and control. With commercial catering, you make decisions as the customer regarding the food, beverages, theme, and type of service. You pay the catering professionals directly based upon a budget you’ve established. Commercial caterers may serve clients ranging from large, major corporations hosting meetings – down to you and your family dining at a local restaurant.

 You may have encountered non-commercial catering without knowing it, commonly in a cafeteria-style setting. A third party entity makes the arrangements and hires the non-commercial catering service, which often takes place at the hiring organization’s site.

 Both forms of catering are offered to public and private customers. At times, commercial catering is described as services which are intended to drive profit or where money is the primary business objective. A non-commercial caterer typically offers services as an accompaniment to a principal product or some other goal. 

Examples of Commercial Catering for Events

To better understand the services offered by commercial caterers, some examples may be helpful. For instance, you might consider retaining such services if you’re hosting:

  • A celebration for a wedding, anniversary, birthday, retirement, or other special occasion;
  • A memorial, funeral, or celebration of life service; or,
  • A special event for your business, such as a customer appreciation party or open house.

In the corporate world, many companies use commercial catering services on a regular basis for a wide range of events. According to The Balance, an online resource for business and financial information, the most common corporate events for purposes of commercial catering include:

  • Industry seminars and conferences;
  • Meetings of key executives, members of the board of directors, or shareholders;
  • Customer training and education;
  • Trade shows;
  • Executive retreats;
  • Incentive clubs for high performing employees;
  • Celebrations commemorating an organization’s growth, expansion, or milestones;
  • Team building and employee enrichment activities;
  • Events to celebrate a product launch; and,
  • Many more.

As mentioned, many non-commercial catering services are in a cafeteria setting. You may have experienced them when dining at a school or college, corporate dining room, in a hospital, or related environments. 

7 Tips for Choosing a Commercial Caterer

Because you’re in charge when it comes to making decisions on a commercial catering professional, some recommendations may help you find the right fit for your needs. 

  1. Start by stating your budget, including an itemized list of what you want to spend on various components, such as food, drinks, service items, and related issues.
  2. Discuss the objectives and details of the event with your catering provider, including location, type of venue, number of attendees, and duration.
  3. Be clear on your expectations and what you’ll need from the commercial caterer, much of which you’ll have itemized on your budget documents. Provide information on the style of service you’re seeking, such as a buffet, passed appetizers, food stations, or other options.
  4. Make sure your catering service provider can accommodate any special requests you may have, based upon the type of event you’re hosting.
  5. If possible, request a tasting of the items you’d like to serve at your event.
  6. Determine how many people you’ll need for food and beverage service. Your commercial caterer can provide useful information on the topic, as these professionals come from years of experience.
  7. Ask for references from current and previous clients, and go online to read reviews where available.

Contact New York Commercial Catering Professionals

Once you’ve decided to move forward with commercial catering services, it’s important to work with an experienced company that can provide for all your needs. To learn more about our expertise in all types of catering, please contact the Manhattan office of Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering & Events. We can set up a consultation with one of our skilled professionals, who can help you navigate the planning process for your event.

Wedding and Social Events Catering
Wedding Catering

How Much Does It Cost To Cater A Wedding?

While every couple wants to host the wedding of their dreams, surrounded by loved ones, the reality is that cost is always a key consideration. Fortunately, there are many tools available to assist with financial issues. The Knot wedding budget calculator and many other resources are useful in helping you manage your expectations and avoid sticker shock. 

However, as valuable as these tools may be, most do not dig deep into certain expenditures, such as the cost of wedding catering. Getting a ballpark figure for the entire affair may lead to many additional questions about how much you can spend on individual components. Fortunately, you’re not alone if you find yourself asking: “How much does it cost to cater a wedding?” New York wedding catering services can provide you with a specific quote, but you should at least understand some of the factors that go into the calculation.

Your Vision For The Event

Determining the overall cost of wedding catering starts with conceptual considerations, such as the guest list and venue. If you’re planning on hosting a large number of invitees in a spacious setting, the event will be very different from an intimate wedding at a cozy spot. Regardless, it’s useful to review the highs, lows, and everything in-between for New York wedding catering cost:

  • Stationary Platters for Self-Service: Starting at around $6 per person for vegetable and fruit trays, a serve-yourself arrangement is an economical option. You can easily add on a few heartier dishes to ensure your guests don’t leave hungry. A gourmet finger sandwich platter offers variety at approximately $11 each, or you could go for something more exotic with an Asian assortment of appetizers at $22 per person.
  • Beverages Only: Does your brother-in-law smoke a mean brisket? Is your cousin a food truck owner? You may get food service offers from well-meaning loved ones who want to contribute, in which case you may only need a tendered bar. On the low end, your cost could be around $5 per person, per hour for juices, soft drinks, and other non-alcoholic drinks. Allow around $22 per guest for the first hour, and half that for each additional hour, for premium bar service.
  • Brunch Wedding Reception: If you’ve always dreamed of getting married at dawn on the beach, you might consider brunch to feed your guests after you tie the knot. The advantage is that your liquor costs may be lower since many people won’t go too heavy on alcohol in the morning. You could also reduce your catering expenses for a brunch event, with breakfast and lunch dishes ringing in at around $30 per person.
  • Food Service Stations: To offer your guests a more interactive experience, you might consider an array of food stations throughout the venue. Your invitees will also enjoy more variety since even picky eaters can find something to nosh on. The cost will depend on the type and number of stations, but your wedding caterer will provide details in advance.
  • Theme Buffet Stations: This arrangement combines the casual nature of food stations with the convenience of self-service – alongside the ability to blend the theme with your wedding vision. These benefits come with a price tag, however, as catered theme buffet stations tend to cost more than other options. Of course, the final bill depends upon the number of stations, the type of food you’re offering, and your total guests.

Other Factors That Affect Cost

If you’ve done the math for wedding catering costs based on the figures mentioned above, you could be ready to move forward with a decision for your reception. However, there are a few additional expenses you’ll need to work into your budget: 

  •         Staff to handle food service, including captains, executive chefs, assistant chefs, and event    managers; and,
  •         Bartenders and servers, for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

These professionals work at a rate of ranging from $40-$50 per hour, and there’s usually a minimum number of hours. In addition, you might include a tip for your wedding caterer, which is a common courtesy for professional services. 

Consult With New York Wedding Caterers About Your Budget

As you can see, there are multiple considerations and decisions that affect how much it costs to cater a wedding. At Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering & Events, we work with clients that have a wide range of budgets, so we’re prepared to advise you on how to get the best bang for your buck. Please contact our Manhattan office to set up a consultation today. We can offer more information on New York wedding catering costs and assist with all your planning needs.

Passed Hors d’Oeuvres
Corporate Catering

How much does it cost to cater your corporate event?

When you’re planning a corporate event, you know that your budget is going to be a top factor during the process. Whether it’s your first time or you’re an old hat, there are plenty of valuable resources to assist with cost considerations. Event Brite’s Event Budgeting: The 2019 Guide to Master Your Event Budget is one effective tool to help you get a grasp on the basics. However, there isn’t much guidance when you break down individual categories of expenses. 

As you review what you can spend, you may wonder if you can maximize your budget by retaining New York corporate catering services. In many situations, it’s wise to trust these professionals with your event, as they’ve amassed considerable experience and developed key vendor relationships to help streamline costs. Experienced caterers can assist with all your planning needs, starting with the key question: “How much does it cost to cater your corporate event?”

Your Corporate Event Purpose and Objectives:

Your first consideration is the role refreshments will play in your corporate event. Your menu and theme will be very different if you’re planning a meeting for employees, as compared to a spread for potential customers you’re looking to impress. The schedule for your event will obviously be a factor as well, since you want to maximize food and beverage service around your participants’ expectations. Some options include:

  • Prepared Platters, Delivered to Your Event: Probably the most convenient and unfussy alternative, you could make arrangements with your caterer to drop off multiple platters for offering in between sessions. Fruit, veggie, and cheese trays range from around $6-$8 per person, while a heartier antipasto platter may start at $11 each. Assorted sliders or chicken fingers are a fun break from the monotony of meetings, and they typically start at around $18 per attendee.
  • Pre-Meeting Breakfast Options: To get your corporate event off on the right foot, make sure participants have the essential fuel they need. There are many different options depending on your goals, starting from a continental breakfast at around $11 per person to a hot breakfast buffet for $14 each. If you want to keep things on the lighter side and avoid the dreaded food coma, you might consider a New York bagel platter at approximately $4 per guest or a produce-focused healthy breakfast for $12 a person.
  • Fixed Price Lunch: If your guests have spent the morning participating in intense sessions, they’ve probably worked up an appetite for lunch. Cost varies for a fixed price meal, starting at around $18 for a NY deli experience or hearty, meal-sized salad. Prices are higher for a typical meat or chicken and potatoes, usually $30 and up. However, a multi-course meal will usually be accompanied by a selection of sides.
  • Pasta for a Crowd: Pasta is filling, affordable, and can please even the pickiest corporate event attendees. Starting at around $14 per person, you could choose a few different options, such as meat-based, veggie-only, creamy or traditional red sauces – and many other alternatives. Fortunately, most caterers will also include a side salad, bread, butter, and rolls to round out the meal.
  • Themed Dinner Events: When you want to wind up your corporate meeting with a memorable feast, you might want to consider a meal that works around some theme you’ve developed for the event. If you encourage your employees to exceed their quota with a tropical trip, go for a Hawaiian luau. Is your company launching international operations? Treat your attendees to a Taste of Asia, France, or Italy. Many of these options start at around $30 per guest.

Additional Considerations for Corporate Event Catering:

Many of the above prices don’t include other costs for catering event dinners in New York, such as event staff. You need to add on expenses related to executive and assistant chefs, as well as event managers. These employees work at a rate of $45-50 per hour, and an hourly minimum usually applies. Plus, there are costs related to bartenders and services at approximately $40 per hour. 

Our New York Corporate Catering Services Can Help

This information may provide you with essential insight on how much it costs to cater your corporate event, but you may need additional details as you move through the planning process. Our team at Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering & Events is here to help with all aspects of catering event dinners in New York and the surrounding region. Please contact our Manhattan office to set up a consultation with one of our experienced professionals.

gorgeous catered spread
Corporate Catering

How to Throw A Corporate Event with the help of a Caterer

According to U.S. Small Business Administration statistics from 2018, there are 2.1 million corporations in New York with less than 500 employees. That’s not including the numerous multinational organizations headquartered in the Empire State, many of which appear on the Fortune 500 list every year. 

With such a massive business presence, especially in Manhattan, there’s a good chance you’ll be invited, attend, or otherwise be involved with corporate events. However, you may also be in charge of planning one. When that opportunity arrives, you’ll need to understand everything that goes into the process. There’s a significant amount of time and effort behind the scenes, which is why many people in your position trust the task to corporate catering in NYC. Here are a few points to consider when you’re called upon to present an unforgettable event. 

Start with the Event’s Purpose and Budget:

You need to establish a clear, defined objective for your corporate affair, as you can’t confuse attendees with competing goals. Whether you’re selling a product, training employees, a company retreat, attracting investors, or aiming for other purposes, the first step is establishing your purpose. From there, you should consider:

  • What you hope to accomplish;
  • How you can achieve your goals through this event;
  • The message you want participants to take away.

Of course, your purpose is also closely tied to your budget and venue. Catering decisions must start with all of these initial considerations and, even if you need to adjust them, there’s less financial sting – and hassles – later if you’re scrambling to cover costs.

Review Corporate Guest Profiles:

The details of your attendees are just as important to initial planning, as they’re the equivalent of guests you’d serve if you owned a restaurant. Keep in mind that many of them may attend several events throughout the year – or maybe as often as a few times per month. You want your corporate affair to stand out, so consider:

  • The professions and occupations of your guests;
  • Similar events these people may be attending;
  • Any special considerations based upon your attendees; and,
  • What they’d expect from your event … and what would be a pleasant surprise in terms of refreshments and service.

Research Menu Options and Themes:

With your guest profiles in mind, you can work on style and the type of cuisine you’ll serve. The details depend on your purpose, but you might develop a theme around a product launch, investor goals, or corporate messaging. You’ll also need to consider your venue and what’s possible within the space you’ve chosen for your event. Popular options include such classics as passed hors d’oeuvres and appetizer buffets, but modern twists might be: 

  • Food trucks;
  • Stir fry stations;
  • Cupcake and candy stands;
  • Make your own concoctions; and,
  • Many more.

 Consider Regional and Seasonal Specialties:

Manhattan corporate catering services will typically incorporate food, beverage, and décor options that focus on location and time of year. The benefits are cost and efficiency, since suppliers have plentiful bounties and transportation is minimal. At the same time, these themes are attractive to corporate event attendees who appreciate sustainability and the diminished carbon footprint.

Work Around the Venue and Schedule:

While the catering should be an important factor in corporate events, it’s still necessary to make the arrangements efficient and workable around the objectives of the corporate meeting. If a segment is scheduled around a break between sessions, you’ll need to consider the best, most productive way to serve a multitude of people in a short amount of time. When your catering is part of an event that’s longer in duration, you’ll need to plan several courses that can proceed in appropriate succession.

 Double Check and Finalize:

One overlooked factor in corporate catering is the final walk-through and staging. Last minute details are crucial, especially when you don’t know the specifics of the venue until you arrive. The best Manhattan catering services always make time for a dress rehearsal, sometimes bringing in friends and colleagues to provide opinions and support.

Contact New York Corporate Catering Services for Help with Your Next Event

 As you can see, there’s a lot that goes into catering for a corporate event. The burden can be overwhelming as you’re juggling various tasks and items on your To-Do list. For the experienced professionals at Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering & Events, this process is all part of a day’s work. We’ll have you covered from start to finish, so please contact our Manhattan office to learn more about our services for corporate catering and events.

Wedding Catering

What Does a Wedding Caterer Provide?

If you’ve recently gotten engaged, you’re probably already thinking about the wedding ceremony, reception, guest list, and budget. One important question at the top of your mind may involve working with a wedding caterer and what to expect when you hire a professional. The short answer is that a Manhattan wedding caterer can provide anything and everything you need for your big day – or will work with the right partners to ensure the event is everything you envisioned. However, you may want additional details to fully understand what catering companies do and the types of personalized service they deliver.

The Basics

The definition of “catering” is to provide food and/or beverages, with associated services, at a special event or occasion. Of course, there’s much more to catering a wedding, depending on what you have planned for the event. Some of the basics that you can expect from your caterer include:

Food: Every couple needs to serve refreshments as part of the occasion, and your options may vary according to your style, vision, and budget. However, beyond these factors, your wedding caterer can work with just about any concept or idea you can imagine. Traditionally, many weddings were sit-down, formal dinners with full service by uniformed staff. Your catering company can certainly make that happen, but a professional can also explore such options as:

  • A wedding brunch;
  • Cocktail hour with passed hors d’oeuvres;
  • A food truck experience;
  • Heavy appetizers;
  • A buffet-style service;
  • Midnight toast and small, shareable plates;
  • A dessert or candy bar;
  • A variety of carving stations and separate food tables;
  • A picnic lunch; and,
  • Any other food service options you can dream up.

Beverages: Another essential at a wedding is drinks, which may or may not involve alcohol. You might want your caterer to handle all aspects of beverage service, from the beer and wine to the juice, tea, and coffee. Some couples opt for a fully stocked bar, while others choose a service station for the guests to pour their own drinks.

Your wedding caterer will take your preferences for beverages into account. Plus, always remember that catering companies specialize not just in beverage service – but in responsible service. When you’re celebrating your nuptials, you don’t want to be in the position of controlling an unruly, intoxicated guest.

Special Requests and Custom-Tailored Wedding Catering Services

Beyond the basics, you may have additional needs or desires to make your wedding day perfect. Wedding caterers are flexible and dedicated to providing top quality services, so you may have personalized requests for the event. A professional catering company can also work with you on:

  • Furniture, including the head table, guest tables, and chairs;
  • Décor, flowers, centerpieces, and other style details;
  • Service equipment, such as chafing dishes, hot plates, chocolate fountains, refrigeration, and other gear;
  • Table cloths, plates, glasses, utensils, and napkins;
  • Entertainment, whether you’re having a live band, DJ, karaoke, or other fun activities.

Staffing

Once you make important decisions on food, drinks, and details, you must consider how the event will unfold and by whom. Many couples take a hands-off approach, understanding that a caterer is in the best position to tackle details with staffing. Catering companies work with partners and placement agencies, so you know the group coming in will be experienced and professional to make your event memorable.

Your catering professional will know what’s best based upon your budget, your preferences, and the venue. Some staffing requirements may include:

  • Servers to pass out salads and entrees at a sit-down dinner;
  • Employees to handle service and replenishment at stations;
  • Professional bartenders that know how to whip up the classics and newest mixology trends;
  • Servers to work the room for passed appetizers;
  • Interior designers and staging professionals to create the perfect setting for your wedding;
  • An emcee or host to guide guests through different stages of the event;
  • A photographer or videographer to capture special moments; and,
  • Many more.

Trust a Professional Manhattan Wedding Caterer to Deliver on Your Big Day

From the big picture down to the minute details, your wedding caterer is capable of meeting your needs. The key to success is getting started early on the process, so you can sort out the basics, address any special requests, and discuss any extraordinary arrangements.

To learn more about what a catering company provides, please contact Thomas Oliver’s Catering NYC to schedule a consultation. You can reach our office by calling (212) 239-0090 or visiting our website. We can explain our Manhattan wedding catering services and answer any questions you may have.

Wedding Catering

Should I Serve a Formal Meal or Have a Buffet at My Wedding?

It’s one of the first questions you’ll consider after getting engaged and, for many couples, it’s the most difficult one to answer: What do you do about the post-ceremony meal? Both a formal meal and a buffet have their advantages, but the decision is one you should make after mulling over the pros and cons. A Manhattan wedding catering professional can offer some insight, though some important information may help guide your planning.

Initial Questions About Catering for Your Wedding

Even before getting to the issue of a sit down versus buffet dinner, there are a few considerations to bear in mind. A few factors will have an impact on your decision, such as:

  • Your budget;
  • The venue for the ceremony and/or reception;
  • The number of guests you expect;
  • Your theme or vision; and,
  • Scheduling and timing.

As you’re weighing the pros and cons of a formal affair and a buffet, it’s essential to keep these logistical concerns in mind. Manhattan wedding and social events caterers are flexible, but they’re only able to work within the parameters that you provide at the outset.

Reasons to Consider a Formal Meal for Your Wedding

To some couples, a sit down dinner embodies the elegance and splendor that’s suitable for the occasion. With a formal meal, you’ll usually work with your caterer on 2-3 courses, offering such options as a salad, appetizer, main course, side, and dessert. Your guests will typically choose from a variety of proteins when they send their RSVP.

This sit down affair is more traditional and structured, which makes it ideal for toasts, speeches, and other events associated with the wedding ceremony. There are additional advantages, such as:

  • The setup provides a way for newlyweds to offer thanks and personalized attention to guests as they dine;
  • The schedule offers predictability, from cocktails and welcoming to dinner, dancing, and sending the couple off;
  • The cost of a sit down dinner tends to be lower than other arrangements, since caterers have an idea of how much to prepare based upon the number of guests;
  • Your guests receive their meals at roughly the same time, so no one feels left out and the meal moves at a consistent pace;
  • Though options are limited, it’s definitely possible to please all your guests.

On the down side, a formal dinner may not be the right fit if you need to please picky eaters or those with food allergies. Plus, a sit down meal isn’t suitable in certain venues. If you cannot celebrate in an accessible, open space, you and your guests will feel alienated during dinner.

Contemplating Your Buffet Wedding Options

There was a time when a self-serve meal wouldn’t be considered formal enough to celebrate a couple’s nuptials, but a buffet can be just as sophisticated and classy as any formal event. You’ll have to decide how you want to handle seating. Assigning your guests to tables brings the meal more in line with a sit down dinner, while general accommodations are more casual.

For the meal itself, you can determine the details and caterers are flexible for your needs. For instance:

  • You may opt for a welcoming reception and cocktail hour, possibly with passed appetizers or appetizer stations;
  • If you prefer designated seating, you’ll need to call guests to find their tables; and,
  • You can choose for salads and/or appetizers to be passed by servers rather than buffet-style, which provides down time as guests wait to be called to the serving line.

The advantage with a buffet is that you may be able to offer more options, especially with finicky guests. Through consultations with your caterer, you may choose 2-3 proteins, a variety of sides, bread, salads, and other dishes. However, you may be surprised to learn that a buffet-style meal tends to be more costly than the formal affair. Despite the fact that you may need fewer staff to plate and serve as compared to a sit down dinner, there’s less certainty. You and your caterer will definitely want to please all of your guests, but more choices means more potential for waste. Regardless of whether it’s eaten, you’re still paying for the food.

Get Guidance Experienced Manhattan Wedding Catering Professionals

There are many additional factors to consider when looking at a formal meal or buffet for your wedding, so you should trust a specialist to guide you through the decision-making process. For more information on catering options for your big day, please contact Thomas Oliver’s Catering NYC. You can reach our office by calling (212) 239-0090 or visit our website. We’re happy to tell you more about our Manhattan wedding catering services for sit down meals, buffets, and other environments.

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What Type of Catering Works Best for Businesses?

If you have spent any of your time or resources on planning an event, you already know the amount of work that it takes to make the desired event occur. If you are wondering what type of Manhattan Catering is best for you and your business, the answer is simple. You need the professional event catering that only Thomas Oliver’s can provide. We make business event catering simple, because we shoulder the work, so you can focus on running your business.

Why Thomas Oliver is Right for You

Here are a few reasons why you need to use Thomas Oliver’s for your next catered event. Whether you are planning an employee meeting or an investor dinner, you can count on us to deliver the very best.

Our Vast Selection: The first thing you will notice about Thomas Oliver’s is the amount of choices you have at your fingertips. One of the reasons it is difficult to plan an event is your constant worry about choosing the right food. There are a lot of picky eaters out there, but you also need to worry about special diets. Whether you need gluten free, or vegetarian friendly, we have a vast selection of mouthwatering delights that will set your taste buds racing. From desert menus and beverage bars, to full meals and themed events, we have the selection you need to make the perfect choice for your next catered event.

Highest Quality: Our culinary staff, chefs, and servers, use the most stringent food quality standards. When we create our culinary masterpieces, we use the very best ingredients. When you go with Thomas Oliver’s you are getting the best food quality crafted into gourmet dishes that will satisfy any craving. Your Manhattan Corporate Catering needs and desires can easily be obtained when work with Thomas Oliver’s.

Giving you the Help you want: Pulling off a corporate catering event is going to add stress to your already stressful job. Even if you decide to delegate all of the planning to an employee, you are adding to their workload and adding to their stress level. Here at Thomas Oliver’s, we believe in making your life easier. Since we continuously work with Manhattan businesses to create corporate events, we have years of experience and have all the necessary contacts. We have event planners that can plan your entire event and find a location, or we can keep our assistance to a minimum by supplying all of the paper products. You can count on us to give you the amount of assistance you need.

Thomas Oliver’s is perfect for your next corporate catering event

When you are looking for the best in Manhattan Corporate catering, look no further than Thomas Oliver’s. Feel free to look over our tantalizing menu. If you are hoping to host the best event that your company has ever seen, you might want to consider our themed events. We go all out to provide gourmet food and a memorable experience. We want you to have the very best, and that is exactly want you get when you schedule your next event with Thomas Oliver’s. From the best gourmet dishes, to amazing service, we have the answers to any corporate catering event. You can say good bye to stress and let us build the perfect event, or take on as much of the planning as you want to handle. We want to help you create memorable moments that will be remembered. For your next corporate event, you need Thomas Oliver’s on your side.

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How should I Pick a Catering Company in Manhattan?

Your clients, business associates and employees are vital for your business. You understand that making a good impression at your next event is vital to your company. When you are looking for the perfect Manhattan Corporate catering company to help you navigate the storms of event planning, you will want to go with the very best. Here at Thomas Olivers, we want you to be able to have the information you need. Here are a few things you should consider when looking for Manhattan catering.

Definite Quality

Just like setting a good first impression is important when doing business, providing quality food and beverages is extremely important when hosting your corporate event. Since we want to provide you with a memorable experience, we use only the freshest ingredients. We go out of our way to create gourmet and culinary masterpieces. No matter which meal choice you make, we will make certain it meets our high standards. Whether your corporate event is for clients, partners, or employees, they will be taking about the delicious meal and allow you to rest easy.

Needed Assistance

Planning a corporate event is stressful. We understand completely. Instead of pushing the burden down to your employees and giving them added stress, you can count on Thomas Olivers to help. We have event and corporate planners ready and willing to help. We can help you find the perfect location, hotel bookings, and even walk you through the different options available so you can host an event that will be memorable and amazing. If you need bartenders or black tie waiters, we have you covered. Since catering events is our specialty, we can take the stress out of Manhattan catering and planning.

Options Available

If you are looking for a themed event, we are ready to give you the experience you crave. When you take a moment to look over our options, you will be stunned. We have everything from our Day at the Beach BBQ, to our French Connection. If you are looking for a specific type of meal, we have breakfast lunch or dinner options. If you want something lighter, we have drop off platters, side salads, and soups. When your event requires a bit of sweetness, we have a dessert menu. If you need gluten free options, we have you covered. Pretty much, when you are looking for something specific for you corporate event, you will find the options you need right here at Thomas Olivers.

Meet Memorable

From our gourmet foods to our beverages, our goal is to transform your next corporate into something memorable. Take our themed meals for instance. We can transform your company break room into something that will create memories. We are serious about making your next corporate event practically perfect. In addition, instead of worrying about all the little things that go into planning an event, you won’t need to fret with Thomas Olivers. We can provide table settings, utensils, even chairs and tables. We make our events stress free for you and your staff, because an event without worry will surely be memorable.

Thomas Olivers

When you want the best in Manhattan corporate catering, you can count on Thomas Olivers. We have the experience and technical knowhow to pull of an amazing corporate event. Our gourmet foods and superior ingredients allow us to create mouthwatering meals and delectable dishes. With us on your side, you next corporate event will make meaningful memories. You can count on us to provide the very best.