A straightforward food plan for gathering together
Start with the date, venue, expected arrival time and your best estimate of guest numbers. You can explain what is still uncertain. The team can then consider availability and the food and service that would be useful.
Three food directions to discuss
- A familiar savoury buffet: sandwich or open-sandwich ideas, sausage rolls and other small bites.
- Afternoon tea: a selection of sandwiches, scones and small cakes to discuss with the team.
- A grazing arrangement: a shared display or individual boards, with the food and presentation agreed around your gathering.
The Working Lunch and British Celebration example menus provide named savoury ideas. They are starting points rather than fixed packages.
A helpful handover
Name someone who can meet the caterer if you will still be at the service. Agree access, the food area and when guests are expected. If timing may change, explain that in advance so the delivery and service plan can take it into account.
Example plan
A gathering after the service
A venue contact opens the room and receives the food. A clear food and setup brief means family members know what will be ready when they arrive. Any serving staff, equipment and clearing-away work are identified in the proposal.
When the headcount is uncertain
Provide your best estimate and ask when the final food allowance needs to be agreed. Keep updates together in the same conversation, particularly if the venue or arrival time changes.
The support you need
Discuss delivery, setup and any help during the gathering. The quote will bring those arrangements together with the food and equipment. For food requirements, we cater for expressly agreed intolerances only, not food allergies.