With a new year comes new trends in everything from fashion to home décor to the latest diets. Catering companies look to these trends for inspiration, as well as creating their own in order to stay at the head of their industry. If you’re planning an event in 2019, you’ll want it to reflect the latest and greatest—not last year’s tired ideas. When choosing a caterer, choose one that not only understands but dictates, the new and innovative trends of the time.
Going Green
The rising awareness of sustainability and food conservation has caused a major shift in consumer demand. People are more aware than ever of their impact on the earth, especially when it comes to their eating habits. Why not choose a catering company that reflects these values? A recent study from the James Beard Foundation shows that 40 percent of the food produced in the U.S. goes to waste.
It has become imperative in the catering industry to truly understand this statistic to reduce excess food and human-made waste. Companies must be able to properly estimate how much food is required to completely satisfy the totaled guest list without having to throw away too much.
As for as décor, keep it clean. Instead of throwing away flowers or decoration, donate them to a nursing home or hospital—where they are sure to brighten someone’s day. Rent any plates, linens or glasses from the catering or rental company, so they can be washed and reused for different events. And most importantly for last, box up all leftover food and take it home. There’s no need to throw away good food you’ve paid for, so at least you’ll have meals ready for days to come.
Inclusive Meals
Allergy restrictions and preferences have completely transformed the way catering companies view the business. So many people have dietary restrictions and dread going to events due to the lack of food options available.
With 2019 comes inclusive catering that involves making sure all guests are able to enjoy the wonderful catered food that is provided. When sending out RSVPs, leave a space for guests to write in any need-to-know dietary restrictions. This way, a supplemental meal can be prepared.
Creating a gluten-free meal, a dairy-free meal or even a vegan meal can make all guests feel comfortable and at home while attending your event. Our Premium Hors d’Oeuvres menu features a number of different bites that are customizable to fit any and all preferences. Choose dishes that have different flavors and ingredients, but ultimately complement each other.
Social Sharing
In the age of social media, the golden rule is, “the camera eats first.” We know that you want your guests to be blown away and snapping pictures of every detail at your event. From the food to the décor and service, it should all be picture-perfect. It’s important for a caterer to not only know how to cook delicious food but also how to present it.
With countless food trends out there, you must consider your audience and decide on what cuisines will appeal to them the most. The food shouldn’t just be a meal, but an experience. Create a tasting menu by strategically pairing wines with the different courses that are to be served. Or, hire the company to send a chef to cook right in front of you and your guests.
2019 is going to be a good year; we can feel it. At All Occasion Catering, our top priority is providing quality service and exceptional cuisine to the table, wherever that table may be. We specialize in providing our clients with beautiful meals and lasting memories. We thrive off the opportunity of trying new things and sticking to the latest trends. Need assistance in making your special event a hit during this new year? Visit us online here or give us a call 865-521-3100.
I found it interesting how you mentioned how sustainability is becoming a large focus on food catering habits. My daughter is getting married soon and she wants to make sure her catering service gives back to the community as much as possible. I will be sure to keep this in mind as we search for a catering company that is eco- friendly!
We are a newer catering company, thank you so much for this great information in this article. I really love the idea of having the extra space on the invitation for dietary restraints. We also try to use environmentally friendly products and local produce for that farm to table experience for our clients. The idea of donating the flowers to a nursing home after an event to is a another great idea!
Thanks for the tip to leave a space in RSVPs for guest to write in about any dietary restrictions they might have. My workplace is organizing an event to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the founding of the company, and I know that we have a pretty diverse group of employees that would benefit from this tip. As we look for catering, we will be sure to figure out dietary restrictions for our employees as well.
Catering trends are pretty interesting. I like the idea of donating leftover food. This would help you know you are helping people do a great job.
As the beginning of there is various trends started in the catering and food industry and your blog is extremely helpful for any caterer to try something new in this large food industry and make any event grand successful.
Great article! Millennial weddings are getting smaller, with increasing budgets. Couples want fewer guests with richer experiences. Hoteliers and caterers have to make this possible for them, as the competition is intense in the industry. Apart from quality food and exceptional services, menus have to be made personal for the bride and groom.
It’s really cool that caterers are looking for ways to reduce food waste. A lot of my friends are getting married, so they may benefit from learning these catering trends. Thanks so much for explaining the catering trends and the reasons behind them.
thanks for the blogs very useful and too good tips
keep sharing blogs very good works