With so much to do when planning a corporate event, it’s easy to bump the food and beverage menu down the priority list. But if you leave food as an afterthought, your attendees may be disappointed and too hungry to enjoy the event you worked so hard to create. Here’s how food and beverages will help your event be memorable for the right reasons. 

How Refreshments Make Corporate Events Stand Out 

1. They Start Conversations

Business events are sometimes uncomfortable, particularly for newcomers nervous about breaking the ice. Serving food gives attendees common ground and eliminates the pressure to find the perfect thing to say when meeting someone. The first conversation with someone new can be as simple as commenting on the menu. Your employees will also appreciate that they can always escape a conversation that’s gone on a little too long with the pretext of refilling their plate. Offering alcoholic beverages at office parties will also help attendees unwind. 

2. They Encourage Networking

Buffets are an easy way to get everyone out of their seat and mingling. With a buffet, attendees are likely to start talking to each other while waiting in line. A buffet is also an excuse to do away with assigned seating. Guests will need to find a seat after their trip to the buffet line. Open seating encourages guests to find a spot, even if it means sitting at a table with people they don’t know, which is the perfect way to make new connections. 

3. They Energize & Revive 

If you’re having a morning event, serving breakfast and coffee is a great way to give attendees the energy they need to start the day. Not only that, on a full stomach, they’re more likely to focus on the event rather than counting the minutes to the next snack break. If you’re planning an afternoon or evening event after a long day in meetings or seminars, lunch or dinner will help them relax and refresh. 

Food is a key part of any corporate event. When planning your next event, turn to Manoa Grand Ballroom in Honolulu, HI. This venue has experienced catering staff to help you customize a menu that’s sure to please. They also offer ample space, high-quality audio equipment, and impressive decorations. Give them a call at (808) 946-6758 to speak with someone about planning your next event or visit them online for more information.