Annual forecasts and predictions are always popular this time of year, but there are some things we know for certain. For example, there will be plenty of special occasions in the year ahead. There will be weddings, graduations, birthday parties, bar mitzvahs, baby showers, company picnics, and many other types of gatherings. And when it comes to providing our honored guests with food and drink, we won’t want to handle the preparation for serving on our own. Even if we had the skills to do so, it’s a full-time job.
If the industry trends are any indication, catering services will be in greater demand than ever during 2017. Event planners wants to enjoy the celebrations and gatherings they have worked so hard to plan. They want to put all of the right pieces in place for a smooth, successful, and enjoyable function. Finding a quality caterer will continue to be an integral part of that.
But even if the necessity of good catering is certain, what about catering trends? Will there be certain types of food, service, or presentation that will be especially popular in the year ahead? How do event planners and professional caterers plan on improving and enhancing their catered events?
1. Healthy is here to stay
A number of health trends have made an impact on the catering industry in recent years, including the demand for more vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Clients and caterers will be incorporating more of these dishes in 2017, including exotic “superfood” menu items for the ultra heath-conscious.
2. Exciting combinations
The year ahead will be anything but bland for caterers and event planners. Exotic fusions and creative combinations will be used to make events stand out.
3. Focus on presentation
Now more than ever, people are interested in unique experiences and presentation. The food at your special event should not only be delicious and satisfying for any number of pallets. It should also be photogenic! Social media shares will continue to grow, and catering companies will strive to create presentations that are truly memorable and worth sharing.
4. Attention to detail
Whether it’s the cutlery, the method of serving food (e.g. buffet vs. table service) or even the process of designing the menu, next-generation caterers will be more hands-on and more accountable for the details. Guests and event planners will expect their high standards to be met, and reputable catering companies will rise to the occasion.
Timeless catering qualities
It’s true that catering is an evolving Industry. Today’s professional caterer is equipped to handle many different dietary and stylistic requirements. Never before has it been possible to receive such a comprehensive catering service. However, there are many aspects up catering that can be called timeless. These are the elements of effective planning, impeccable service, and the ability to improvise when something doesn’t go exactly as planned. These qualities come only from experience and training, and despite trends that come and go, they are the backbone of a successfully catered event.