Charcuterie Board
Hosting a small event can be just as enjoyable and memorable as a larger gathering, but the cost of catering can quickly add up. However, with some careful planning and creativity, it’s possible to provide delicious and satisfying food for your guests without breaking the bank.
Here are some budget-friendly catering ideas for small events:
Consider A Buffet-Style Meal
A buffet-style meal can be a great way to serve your guests without the need for a formal sit-down dinner. Many caterers including Best Catering Chicago will drop off food at your door. This will save on set-up costs, staffing, and clean-up. Most caterers will use disposable service ware that will make clean-up super easy!
Serve Small Bites Instead Of A Full Meal
A great substitute for a large catered event is creating a charcuterie board. It will take about only an hour and you can feed a whole bunch of people. It also gives your guest a large variety of items to choose from which makes it easy for you to enjoy your party.
Make Your Own Desserts (Sort Of)
The trick to this is to buy some things from the store and spruce them up yourself and make them kind of interesting. One idea is to buy a bunch of different cookies, as well as candy toppings, sprinkles, nuts, chocolate chips, and frostings and create a do-it-yourself cookie topping station! Another great idea is skewering some strawberries and offering a chocolate fondue station.
Provide Your Own Drinks
Did you know that alcohol providers make up to 80% profit margin on their alcohol service? You can quickly cut that down by providing your own alcohol, hard plastic glassware and hiring a bartender to tend to your needs!
Get Creative With Plate Ware
Food can be fun! If you have wooden cutting boards, antique serving trays, or mixed plates you can really make a cool spread of food using all the different colors and textures. Also, consider borrowing miscellaneous items from family and friends to add to your culinary collection for the evening.
DIY Decorations
Decorations can also add to the cost of an event. Consider making your own decorations using inexpensive materials like tissue paper, balloons, or flowers. This can add a personal touch to your event while also helping to reduce costs.