When it comes to planning an event, whether it’s a wedding, corporate function, or a milestone birthday, catering plays a pivotal role in how your day is remembered. The food is often one of the biggest talking points, and getting it right can be the difference between a forgettable event and one that everyone raves about. Yet, despite best intentions, many people make common catering mistakes that could easily be avoided.
Here are the top mistakes to steer clear of when planning event catering and how working with an experienced team like Green Fig Catering Company in East Sussex can ensure your event runs seamlessly. In fact, understanding the top mistakes to avoid when planning event catering will help you save time, reduce stress, and create an unforgettable guest experience.
Not Considering Your Guest List Properly
One of the most frequent oversights is failing to align the menu with the guests attending. It’s essential to account for dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or allergy-related restrictions. Similarly, consider whether your group prefers something more formal or laid-back. If these needs are ignored, some guests could end up feeling excluded or unable to enjoy the food on offer. Always gather this information during the RSVP process and share it with your caterer early on so they can tailor the menu accordingly.
Leaving Catering Until the Last Minute
Catering should be one of the first things booked when planning your event. High-quality caterers like Green Fig Catering Company are often booked up months in advance, especially during busy seasons. Delaying this decision can severely limit your options, forcing you to compromise on food quality, service, or availability. Secure your catering team as early as possible to allow plenty of time for menu planning and event coordination. For weddings, we like as much notice as possible, as dates get really booked up quickly. 18 months preferably – we are pretty busy!
Underestimating the Importance of Presentation
The visual appeal of your food is just as important as taste when it comes to making a lasting impression. Beautifully presented dishes elevate the entire experience, while poor presentation can make even great food look unappetising. Working with a caterer who understands the aesthetics of food, like the team at Green Fig, ensures your guests enjoy a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Not Matching the Menu to the Event Type
Choosing the wrong style of catering can clash with the tone of your event. A sit-down plated meal might not suit a relaxed garden party, just as a buffet might feel too informal for an elegant wedding reception. Your caterer should help guide you through appropriate formats such as canapés, sharing boards, BBQs, or formal courses based on your vision and venue. Matching the style of food to the type of event ensures consistency and comfort for your guests.
Misjudging the Quantity of Food
It’s surprisingly common to either over-cater or under-cater an event. Running out of food is a disaster, but wasting a large amount is disheartening and expensive. An experienced caterer will assess your guest numbers, event type and timing to recommend the right quantities. Green Fig always works closely with clients to strike the ideal balance, ensuring everyone is well fed without excessive waste.
Not Asking About Setup and Service
Assumptions about what’s included in a catering package can lead to major stress on the day. Does your caterer provide waiting staff, tableware, linens, or clean-up? These are essential logistics that often go unasked until it’s too late. At Green Fig, we provide a comprehensive service covering everything from setup and staffing to tidying up afterwards, so you can focus on enjoying your event.
Ignoring Seasonality and Local Ingredients
Some clients request dishes that require imported or out-of-season produce, which can compromise flavour, increase costs, and negatively impact sustainability. A menu built on local, seasonal ingredients not only tastes better but is often more cost-effective and eco-friendly. Green Fig Catering Company proudly updates its menus throughout the year, making the most of what’s in season across East Sussex.
No Contingency Plan for Weather
Outdoor events are always at the mercy of the British weather, and food service can be particularly affected. Wind, rain or heat can all throw off catering logistics if there’s no backup plan in place. It’s crucial to discuss weather contingencies with your caterer and venue, ensuring a seamless plan whether you’re serving canapés under a gazebo or hosting a full garden feast. Our team is experienced in adapting menus and service to suit every condition.
Choosing Price Over Quality
Everyone wants value for money, but choosing the cheapest quote often leads to disappointment. Sub-par food, poor service and last-minute surprises are more common when the priority is price rather than quality. Instead, compare value and transparency. Green Fig Catering Company offers fair pricing without cutting corners, delivering flavour, service, and peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Catering can truly make or break your event. By avoiding these common pitfalls and paying close attention to the top mistakes to avoid when planning event catering, you’ll ensure the food is delicious, beautifully presented, and aligned with your guests’ needs and the occasion itself. Choosing to work with a professional, local team like Green Fig Catering Company means benefiting from years of expertise, creativity, and exceptional service.
Ready to plan a flawless event? Get in touch with us today and let us help you create an unforgettable experience.
FAQs
How far in advance should I book my caterer?
Ideally, 3 to 6 months before your event, especially during peak seasons like summer and Christmas.
Can you cater for dietary requirements?
Absolutely. We offer customised menus for vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and allergy-specific guests.
Do you offer catering for small events?
Yes. We cater everything from intimate private dinners to large-scale weddings and corporate functions.
Is your produce locally sourced?
Wherever possible, yes. We prioritise seasonal and local ingredients for fresher, more sustainable catering.