Con-grad-ulations. It’s that time again – the school year is coming to a close, and it’s a momentous milestone for graduates that deserves celebration. And if you plan to throw your grad a party before they move onto the next stage of their lives, you need top catering tips to throw the best possible bash. The most important thing to remember for any party is its success hinges on the quality of your food and drinks!
The Guest List
Before you can plan anything, you need a firm guest list, which will help you with how best to proceed. The guest list will also influence your budget and how you use it. Before you send invites or plan the food, make sure you secure a venue so, your party date is safe. Once you have the date and venue, you can send invites and start planning the best bits.
Food & Drinks
Food isn’t the purpose of the party, but it often ends up being the focal point. No matter how many guests you plan to invite, you want a range of options for your guests to pick and choose from.
Apps & Grazers
The perfect appetizer for grad parties is finger food – whether it’s a skewer or platters offering a variety of nibbles, you have endless options. A grazing table is a great way to pull it all together, as it allows guests to make a plate of their favorites while they socialize. Whether you opt for a Mexican nacho bar or you prefer a charcuterie style setup.
Entrees
If you’re planning on a backyard bash, consider a Hawaiian-style luau, traditional bbq, or a whole pig roast! Action stations are also a popular choice, whether it’s a pasta station with stuffed shells and lasagna, a baked potato bar with all the toppings, or a menu that revolves around fresh seafood. It gives your guests the freedom to choose what they want. Opt for several side options that will pair well with any entrees you select. Nothing pairs with pasta like garlic bread and salad. No barbecue would be complete without mac and cheese and cornbread.
The Dessert
Don’t forget a custom-made graduation cake! Unless your grad would prefer an ice cream sundae bar or cupcakes. There are plenty of ways to create a celebratory dessert that fits your grad’s style.
The Drinks
Whatever you do – don’t forget the drinks! Stock your coolers with a variety of soda options, bottled water, and alcohol for the adults if it’s that type of party. If it’s a college graduation party, you might want to consider hiring a bartender who can bring all the fixing and provide you with a signature cocktail or two.
Contact DRJ Catering To Plan Your Grad Party
DRJ Catering is experienced in a wide variety of celebration catering, whether you’re throwing a small celebration or a big bash. The last thing you need is more stress so get in touch with DRJ to discuss your catering needs and let us do the heavy lifting, so you don’t have to.