| One option is to hire a caterer and let them take care | | | | If your event will be outdoors, consider whether or not |
| of everything. This can be expensive and may not be | | | | the weather will affect your menu. If you are planning |
| the best option for you depending on your budget. | | | | a barbecue, you will need a backup plan in case it |
| Another option is to have guests bring items to the | | | | rains. Not only will you need to move the party indoors, |
| party. Create a list of everything that is needed, | | | | but the food as well. |
| including items like napkins, plates, cups, etc. Pass the | | | | If you are planning to serve appetizers that require |
| list around and let guests sign up for the item they | | | | heating, consider crock pots. You can place smoked |
| want to bring. You can list appetizers, desserts, ice, | | | | sausages or spicy cheese dip in the pots and leave |
| chips, dips, and any other items on the menu. | | | | them on low. You will need access to electricity if you |
| If you plan to do everything yourself, there are several | | | | use crock pots. Sterno canned heat is another |
| things to consider when food party planning. Decide on | | | | warming option for party foods. Party rental |
| the menu early. Make a shopping list including | | | | companies rent chafing dishes which work really well |
| everything you will need. Create a checklist and plan | | | | for keeping food warm. |
| which items can be prepared ahead of time. Some | | | | A party taco bar is easily created using divided chafing |
| items can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen. | | | | dishes filled with seasoned hamburger meat, pinto |
| A common mistake people make when preparing the | | | | beans, shredded seasoned chicken, and warm cheese |
| party food is timing. If you have a single oven, you | | | | sauce. Hard and soft taco shells can be served warm |
| won't be able to cook but one or two items at a time. | | | | or at room temperature. Be sure to include condiments |
| Planning the food for a party event does not simply | | | | such as lettuce, sour cream, taco sauce, and chopped |
| entail making a list of what you plan to serve and | | | | jalapeno peppers. |
| creating a shopping list. It does require some planning | | | | Whatever food you decide to serve at your next |
| for the actual preparation of the food. | | | | party, it will be a lot easier if you carefully plan the |
| The details depend primarily on what is on the menu. | | | | menu ahead of time. A little forethought, brainstorming, |
| Will you be serving cocktails? You will need an area | | | | and organization will simplify the food planning task. |
| for setting up the bar. You will need a way to store | | | | With proper preparation, you will have everything taken |
| ice. Will you have a bartender or will the guests serve | | | | care of so you can enjoy your celebrated event |
| themselves? These are all questions you need to | | | | instead of worrying about the food. |
| consider when preparing for your party. | | | | |