Sabrina Jenkins

Coming up with a desirable menu involves a lot of thought and ingenuity. While making sure you are offering a wide variety to your consumers, you also want to keep it simple so you are not overwhelming the Guest with decisions and having to hold a massive inventory of products. Keeping your food cost and labor in mind is crucial when deciding on the perfect menu. What items are easy to execute? Does the product travel well? With many consumers ordering more takeout nowadays or delivery service, these are things you have to take into consideration.

Depending on your Guest list you should consider all components when choosing the right venue. Is parking an issue? Will the venue allow outside food and beverage? (This can be a biggie!) If you are planning an outdoor event, is there a backup plan for inclement weather that will accommodate you and your Guests indoors? These are all things to consider when planning any event big or small.

Incorporating creativity into any event can enhance the overall Guest experience. If you are catering for a special occasion, ask the Guest if they have a specific theme and try to incorporate it into your spread. This does not have to mean straying away from your standard menu or completely changing your look. Perhaps adding a pop of color with printed Menu Item labels that match their theme to display in front of each item or changing the name of one of your signature dishes (just for their event) to make it exclusively for their party. For example, if you are catering a wedding reception you can name the dish being served after the couple. "The Smiths Signature Mac & Cheese" etc.

Utilizing Data insights from previous events will help guide you in providing an elevated experience for your future clients. Learning from past hits and misses can direct the conversation in a way that favors your brand while also meeting the Guests expectations. For example, if you know from experience that certain menu items travel better than others, then avoid offering the less than desirable items and stick to what you know will be a HIT! This will ensure your brand is portrayed in the best way possible. For special menu requests, budget restraints or time slots that are outside of your typical business hours, try to "get to Yes" while keeping your teams best interest in mind for perfect execution.

Dining room servers wear many hats. Their duties may go beyond serving Guests at the table. If the host/ hostess needs assistance seating tables, in some cases servers assist in this area. Running food or drinks for other Servers can be very helpful and shows you're a true team player! Cleaning your work station or completing side work during down time can make your shift run more smoothly.

A dining room server will expedite the bussing of the table by doing consistent tale touches. Clear any dirty dishes or glasses once the Guest is finished with them to make more room and less mess at the end of their meal. Sanitize tables following each Customers visit to ensure it's clean and ready to serve for the next Guest. Some servers are responsible for folding silverware or side-work. Restocking condiments, linens, cleaning beverage machines etc. Follow food safety guidelines and regulations for safe food handling.