Know the details when deciding how to buy beverages. Determine whether to purchase by the person, by the beverage or by the container pricing.
Order on consumption.
Opt out of the buffet. Serve a plated lunch and/or dinner.
Hand out boxed lunches or consider ordering pizza or buying a party platter of submarine sandwiches.
Purchase soft drinks in bulk.
Serve house-brand wines and drinks.
Stick to a strict agenda keeping attendees from grazing and consuming more.
Serve heavy hors d’oeuvres in place of dinner.
If your attendees cannot tell the difference between standard and premium liquor brands, stick with the standard.
Know your group: Higher level executives have probably attended more receptions and tend to eat less, while lower level staff will be ready to chow down.
Choose a venue where the use of tables, chairs, linens, and decorations are included.
Never accept the banquet menu as printed. Typically, it can be changed.
Work with the chef to take advantage of bulk prices when possible.
