Catering to guests with dietary restrictions can be a huge challenge for event planners. Whether you are planning a wedding, corporate event, or family gathering, it is important to understand these restrictions and offer suitable options for every guest. For some, this can be a daunting task. However, with a bit of creativity, it can be effortless, and everyone will leave the venue feeling content with the food options. Here are practical tips you can use to cater to your guests with dietary restrictions, and ensure everyone has a great time.
Get To Know Your Guests' Dietary Restrictions
Before you can make adjustments to the menu, it is essential to understand your guests’ dietary restrictions. Your guests may have dietary restrictions for reasons ranging from health concerns (diabetes, high blood pressure, lactose intolerance, immune system concerns) to religious restrictions (Kosher foods, Halal food), or some just based on good old fashioned personal preference (Keto diet, paleo diet, avoiding processed foods, etc.)! It is important to gather this information as early as possible, especially if you are planning an event centered around a theme, so that your caterer has enough time to creatively accommodate! You can do this by sending out a questionnaire that asks them to specify their dietary preferences or any food allergies and requirements. Getting the details will help you adequately prepare to make the necessary arrangements in advance to avoid any embarrassing allergic reactions or uncomfortable meal options.
Offer Menu Options That Cater To Everyone
Once you know your guests' requirements, it is time to create the menu options that cater to everyone. You can consider having vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan options on the menu to cater to those guests with dietary restrictions. Additionally, consider labeling food items that contain common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and soy. While labeling is important, work with your caterer to ensure that these foods, as well as those for religious restrictions, are kept separate and have separate serving utensils to prevent cross contamination.
Be Creative In Your Meal Planning
Work with your caterer to try out some new dishes. Someone with gluten-free or dairy-free diets may have had their share of tasteless meals. A good caterer can work with you to create a package that is flavorful and exciting, and that caters to their requirements. There is a lot that can be done with spices and cooking techniques to wow your guests. You can consider serving up dishes that incorporate the latest in catering cuisine to craft classic fare without sacrificing the overall theme of your event.
Don't Forget To Communicate
Communication is key when it comes to catering for guests with dietary restrictions. Once the menu is designed, be sure to communicate clearly with your guests about the meal plans, so there are no surprises. Make sure they are aware of the dishes to be served, the ingredients included, and are comfortable that there will be sufficient protections from cross contamination. Try to have these communications with significant lead time so that any corrections or adjustments can be passed on to your caterer so appropriate accommodations can be made.
Hire A Professional Catering Company!
If you are unsure about what to serve and are uncomfortable preparing meals for your guests with dietary restrictions, it is recommended to hire a professional catering company! Beau Catering has experience preparing meals for any event and we have specialized chefs who can create dishes that cater to everyone’s dietary requirements.
In the end, catering to guests with dietary restrictions is about planning ahead, creativity and communication. By taking the time to understand your guest's dietary needs, offering menu options, and communicating, you can ensure everyone is catered for. Remember, food is an essential part of any event. Hence, it is essential to ensure that each guest has a great meal experience. Incorporating these tips into your event planning will save you time and effort down the line, and make your guests feel welcome, included, and pleased with the service you offer.
We are here to help! Contact the professionals at Beau Catering as early in your process as possible to make that sure that your every need is catered to!