A Unique Breakfast Option

I'm working on some concepts for a breakfast reception for a client and I came across the first picture below.  Just one picture can spark inspiration and get your creative juices flowing.

Imagine the catering staff walking around the reception while the guests network and chat with sponsors.  The goal of this breakfast reception is to introduce the attendees to the various sponsors/exhibitors prior to the event officially kicking off.  This room will be filled to the rim with exhibitors and guests and we don't want to take up precious space with buffets.  This would be a unique spin on a continental breakfast and be a huge space saver.

Another fun touch - have the catering staff wearing brightly colored company branded t-shirts.

I'm thinking donut holes, lemon lime muffins, morning buns and cinnamon rolls.

It would be a lovely touch to have a bag like this (that's branded of course) to put your goodies in.

A continental breakfast wouldn't be complete without some fruit - but fruit in a waffle cone sounds so much better.  Don't you think?

As far as juices go - unique flavors all the way.  Maybe Blueberry and White Grape juice, or Pomegranate and Raspberry juice or Cranberry and Apple juice.

You can change this up to match what ever theme you are going for.  French - add in lots of french pastries and croissants and have the servers wear berets.  So many possibilities.

|images: candy tray | donut holes | lemon lime muffins | morning buns & cinnamon rolls | branded pastry bags | fruit & waffles |

Food: Mini Salads & Perfect Size Containers

When you're planning a reception, lots of times you don't think about including salad in the mix.  To get your veggies, you might opt for a veggie tray.  That's kinda boring if you ask me.  I'm all about the presentation.  Here are some fun bite-size salads and darling little containers that everyone would enjoy.

Wondering what you might want to serve your salad in?  Here are some serving options.  First up - disposables from Think Garnish.  They have some great ideas on their website if you are looking for more inspiration.

Looking for china options?  My favorite places to head are CB2, West Elm, World Market and Pier 1.  My style is simple and I tend to lean towards white because I don't like the food to compete with the dish.  One thing to keep in mind - don't think you always need to use a bowl for salad.  Try a marini glass or a shot glass.  Out of the box and unique, that's what makes a statement.

Salads Images:  Salad 1, Salad 2, Salad 3

Disposibles: Think Garnish

Salad Vessels: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Events:: Ultimate After Party Snacks

When I'm creating menus for clients for their parties or corporate events, I'm always looking for something different.  I want to create an experience for them.  Food can help with that experience, especially if it's done in a creative way.  Imagine you're attending an after party or even a reception, wouldn't you loved to be served these fun munchies.  

Quite a few of these images below are from two of my favorite caterers.  They definitely know how to hit it out of the park - Peter Callahan Catering and The Entertaining Company.  I've had the please of working with The Entertaining Company - well, Peter Callahan is on my wish list.

Here's a tip, like what you see, show the chef that you are working with photos of different types of food that you like.  Pictures speak 1000 words and they will have a clear vision of the look you are going for.

ROW 1: 1// hamburger, shake & fries 2// super blt bites 3// grilled cheese & tomato soup

ROW 2: 1// salad, slider, fries & taco 2// mini tacos

ROW 3: 1// mini steak, wedge & fries 2// lasagna cupcakes 3// chips