Planning a conference for a business, or planning an event that’s corporate in theme, is tough enough, let alone when you, as the organizer, are also charged with choosing the location and the food for the event too!
Of course, it’s tempting to try and go for the simpler options, but in 2025, going into 2026, sandwiches aren’t likely to cut it as they did in 1987! Also, many guests at corporate events now expect the food to match the setting and the theme of the event, too.
How do you pull that off without having to pay for a corporate event planner? Here’s how!
Event: Conference or Seminar
Setting: Hotel Ballroom or Convention Center
With a setting like this, you’ll likely have a presentation-themed event, with larger groups and structured sessions, perhaps with some mingling events.
How To Cater For It
For this, corporate event catering is usually best suited to things like a continental breakfast buffet, made from a mixture of coffee, fruit, and yogurts. If the event is occurring at lunchtime, try to book catering that offers salads, wraps, or sandwiches for faster service between sessions. For afternoon and evening options, make sure there’s lots of tea, coffee, biscuits, and light snacks. Try to avoid heavy foods or sauces that may have a strong aroma, so no garlic!
Event: Networking Reception
Setting: Gallery or Office Rooftop
In this setting, the aim of the event is more likely to be social, so you’ll want a bit more of a laid-back feel, with plenty of space for conversations.
How To Cater For It
Food options for this type of event will be more relaxed, with things like crab cakes, passed hors d’oeuvres, and bite-sized skewers, if it’s taking place in the summer. You may want to look into interactive food stations, such as sushi rolling, a taco bar, or charcuterie boards, which will increase engagement and interaction among guests. As evening rolls in, go for signature cocktails and mocktails, and if you can, avoid greasy or messy foods, as guests will likely be standing and moving around to interact.
Event: Team Building Retreat
Setting: Outdoor Venue or Lodge
This is likely to be even more relaxed, with activities pointing toward collaboration.
How To Cater For It
As you may have guessed, an event like this is going to take place in the warmer months, meaning that you’ll want to avoid any overly heavy foods. For catering, choose a BBQ or grill, with burgers, grilled veg, and salads. It may also be worth looking into picnic-style food, as well as fruit and s’mores, if the event is going on into the evening and night.
Event: Executive Dinner or Board Meeting
Setting: Private Dining Room or High-End Restaurant
The most intimidating of all corporate events, this one is the most formal and has an emphasis on intimate discussion as well as relationship building, often with clients or potential business partners.
How To Cater For It
If it’s being held in a restaurant, then the catering should include a multi-course meal based around fine dining. If possible, opt for a wine pairing service and look into gourmet desserts or cheese boards to really set a high tone for guests.