A thoughtfully catered meeting creates a welcoming environment, prepares attendees for a productive session, and thanks colleagues and clients for their presence and efforts. Whether you plan to serve box lunches at a casual meeting or offer an elaborate spread for a more formal gathering, follow these catering tips for your next business event.

What to Consider for Your Business Meeting

1. Dietary Restrictions

When designing a menu, consider the attendees. Survey colleagues, especially if you do not know them well, to determine dietary restrictions. Then, create a versatile menu with these in mind. For example, offer vegetarian and gluten-free options.

2. Menu Inspired by the Event

Create a menu that aligns with the business meeting you’re hosting. For example, an early morning meeting calls for breakfast foods, while a meeting later in the morning or around lunchtime gives you both brunch and lunch options. Also, consider the formality of the event when planning catering. A high-profile meeting with executives or potential clients might warrant a more elaborate spread than an informal box lunch with your team.

3. Creative Beverage Options

Make your catered business meeting memorable by providing beverage options beyond coffee and water. While you should still include these standards, you can also get creative with other selections. A specialty flavored-coffee bar is a popular addition to any event.

4. Theme

While box lunches are easy to serve and are practical for many meetings, sometimes you have the opportunity to design a more creative menu. For instance, you can choose a theme for your cuisine, like a taco bar. Work with your caterer to determine an appropriate theme for your next event.

5. Decor

Make your business meeting more polished with the right decor. For example, consider setting tables with linens for lunches with clients. Regardless of the level of formality, ensure your catered meeting is stocked with plates, napkins, utensils, and cups for convenience. Depending on the season, you may also use holiday decorations to set the mood in the office.

For business catering in the Farmington, Apple Valley, Burnsville, and Prior Lake areas of Minnesota, contact Mainstreet Coffee & Wine Bar. Their catering menu includes box lunches as well as sandwich trays, salad, fresh fruit, soup and chili, and more. Plus, you can add a portable coffee bar—Joe-to-Go—to any order. Call (952) 985-7650 to plan your next event, or check out the catering menu on their website.