HOW TO PLAN A SPORTS CATERING EVENT

by Abby Woloss

Hosting a sports event can be an exciting experience, but it can also be overwhelming. One of the most important aspects of planning a successful sports event is the catering. Whether you are hosting a small gathering or a large-scale event, proper planning and organization are key. In this blog post, we will guide you through the steps of planning a sports catering event.

1. Determine Your Budget

The first step in planning a sports catering event is to determine your budget. This will help you to determine the type of catering you can afford. When creating your budget, consider the number of guests you will be hosting and the type of food and beverage you would like to serve. Be sure to include all costs, including equipment rental, service staff, and food and beverage costs.

2. Choose a Catering Company

The next step is to choose a catering company that fits within your budget. Research catering companies in your area and read reviews from past clients. Contact several companies and request quotes for your event. Be sure to ask about their experience with sports events and what type of menu options they can provide.

3. Plan Your Menu

Once you have chosen a catering company, it's time to plan your menu. Consider the time of day and the length of your event when selecting your menu items. If your event is during the day, consider lighter fare such as sandwiches, salads, and fruit. If your event is in the evening, consider more substantial items such as pasta, chicken, and beef.

4. Consider Dietary Restrictions

It's important to consider any dietary restrictions your guests may have when planning your menu. Be sure to include vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Ask your catering company if they can accommodate these dietary needs.

5. Select Your Beverages

In addition to food, you will need to select your beverages. This can include water, soft drinks, beer, wine, and cocktails. Consider the preferences of your guests and the type of event you are hosting when selecting your beverages.

6. Determine the Service Style

The service style you select will depend on the type of event you are hosting. If you are hosting a casual event, you may opt for a buffet-style service. If you are hosting a more formal event, a plated dinner may be more appropriate. Discuss your options with your catering company to determine the best service style for your event.

7. Rent Equipment

If your catering company does not provide equipment, you will need to rent it. This can include tables, chairs, linens, and dinnerware. Be sure to coordinate with your catering company to ensure that all equipment is delivered and set up in a timely manner

8. Hire Service Staff

If your catering company does not provide service staff, you will need to hire them separately. This can include servers, bartenders, and kitchen staff. Be sure to coordinate with your catering company to ensure that all staff is properly trained and arrives on time.

9. Consider the logistics

When planning a sports catering event, it's important to consider the logistics. You need to ensure that there is enough space for the catering setup and that the catering staff can move around freely. If the event is outdoors, you need to ensure that the catering setup is protected from the elements. You also need to ensure that there are enough tables and chairs for the guests.

10. Plan for Clean-Up

After your event ends, there will be a lot of clean-up to do. Be sure to discuss the clean-up process with your catering company and determine who will be responsible for cleaning up. If you are responsible for clean-up, be sure to rent any necessary equipment, such as trash cans and dumpsters.

Planning a sports catering event can be a daunting task, but with the right planning and organization, it can be a success. By checking off the outlined advice points in this blog post, you can ensure that your event is a memorable and enjoyable experience for all of your guests.

At Eddie Deen & Company Catering, we offer guests the option to customize their menu or select one of the many existing menu theme options listed on our website. The East Texas BBQ menu is our most popular menu that has made Eddie Deen famous for serving up tasty, never-disappointing dishes. If you are on the lookout for a caterer, click the link here to learn more about our catering services, bar services, and venue locations.