Whether you’re planning a birthday party with family and friends or a business event to boost employee morale, catering is a great way to feed guests. Excellent catering services with delicious food for dinner will leave a lasting impression on party attendees. Yet, some people find it tricky to ensure that everyone leaves the table satisfied. Here are some simple tips to help you plan an upcoming event.

What to Consider Before Ordering Food for an Event

1. Know Your Guest List

The first step in planning a menu is understanding the guests. Think about the type of people you’re feeding and where the party will take place. For instance, if most of the guests are business professionals who plan to network during the event, serve sliced meats and cheese that they can quickly eat as they speak. Consider whether the party and venue will have a formal or informal atmosphere. For example, sandwiches would be perfect for a more laid-back family gathering.

2. Offer Alternatives

After you have your guests' meal preferences, order plenty of options. For example, you can order salads for vegetarians, and you can get German and Polish sausages for anyone following a keto diet. Ideally, there should be several appetizers and entrée selections in case someone changes their mind about the dinner they’d like to have. Alternative meal options are also useful if unexpected guests attend the event. 

3. Choose Fresh Ingredients

When choosing items to include on the menu, focus on fresh, local ingredients. Order from a market or deli that offers plenty of flavorful options. For instance, summer is the best time to include tomatoes, zucchini, and green beans in meals. Therefore, you can select bean stews, stuffed cabbage dishes, and Claremont salads for your next event. If you know the guests will prefer heartier meals, opt for roasted ham or pastrami with a large tray of fresh cheeses.

If you’re looking for a caterer that offers tasty and fresh dinner options, turn to JJ International Delicatessen in Port Jervis, NY. This international market carries an impressive selection of delicious food options, including more than 65 specialty meats and cheeses from Poland, Russia, and Ukraine. Whether your guests love salads or sandwiches, this store will satisfy their cravings. Call (845) 858-1142 to schedule a food delivery, or visit their website to learn more about their European groceries and deli meats.