Conference Menu Planning Tips

Catering Options for Training Events

Jun 13, 2007

Planning a menu for training events requires careful consideration of all dietary needs along with keeping food light so that energy levels remain high.

Breakfast

Breakfast is typically the meal for starches. Remember that many people are on low carb diets and so continental breakfasts can leave them unsatisfied. Adding yogurt, fresh fruit salad, hard cheeses, cottage cheese and cold cuts such as ham can round out a continental breakfast and keep the low carb dieters happy. For beverages, offer coffee and tea (both caffeinated and decaffeinated), and juices.

AM Break

Muffins and pastries tend to be the most popular morning snack. Some caterers get creative with protein bars or smoothies. Beverages are essential at break times so add water to the coffee, tea and juices.

Lunch

If budgets are tight and hot meals are not possible, look at adding soup to sandwiches or wraps to give an inexpensive hot option. Remember the vegetarians in the crowd and always offer meatless options. Pasta, although usually an inexpensive option, can be very heavy and slow down the mental alertness for afternoon sessions. Offer a variety of salads, some including a source of protein such as chicken or shrimp to lighten the meal.

PM Break

Offer something light for afternoon break such as fruit kabobs and mineral water. Other snack foods such as popcorn and nuts offer a fun alternative with an assortment of pops.

Dinner

Have fun with theme dinners. Choose a country, a colour or an activity and create a menu, decorations and networking activities to fit. If the training event is a conference over many days, try to book at least one meal off site at a local pub or restaurant – or both. A pub offers a more casual atmosphere and can be a great way to break up more formal or intellectually challenging activities.

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