Catering

Everyone loves free food. Especially if it’s delicious. Try to use a locally owned and operated caterer. Tell them the type of event you’re having, and see what options they have for light snacks and beverages. The minimum you’ll need is:

• Fresh Water: Get at least 16oz for every attendee. It doesn’t go bad, so no harm in having extra. It doesn’t need to be bottled, either. You can have cisterns and glasses placed in the venue and people can help themselves.
• Sodas: Get a variety of flavors. Bottles are preferred since they have lids and can be resealed. Besides, the psssst of a can opening is kinda disruptive to the talks.
• Coffee: It’s no secret that everyone loves coffee. Don’t just get the cardboard things from Starbucks. Call a local coffee shop and ask them to bring the good stuff fresh on event day. Don’t forget decaf!
• Light snacks: This can be fruit, veggie, and cheese platters, pretzels, and similar munchies. Avoid nuts unless they are in sealed containers so you don’t trigger someone’s allergies.
• Of course you can get as fancy as you like with the food, but we advise keeping it simple. We’d rather the money go towards getting great speakers and a great venue than a bunch of finger sandwiches and shrimp cocktails.