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Top 3 Menu Ideas for Home Parties

Whether you are throwing a cocktail party for your closest friends or inviting your neighbors to an open house, offer a tasty menu that flows nicely with the energy in the room. We suggest having a selection of small bites and finger foods—a prime catalyst for mixing and mingling!Let us take you through the Boston home party menu. These little servings of nutrient-packed food will not only satisfy guests’ hunger but also inspire their creativity!

Innovative Menu Ideas for Boston Parties

The best catering companies in Boston know where to source the finest ingredients and how to transform them into a piece of art. And our talented chefs want to share some of their favorite creations with you.

Welcome with Fresh Seasonal Appetizers

You know what they say about first impressions, so make sure the first morsel guests enjoy is a brilliant one. Look for foods with explosive flavors and the freshest ingredients. For example, a simple chicken roulade can be spiced up with cumin zereshk-scented rice stuffing and lemon sauce.To make sure your small bites are bursting with as much flavor and as many nutrients as possible, we also suggest using plenty of seasonal farmed vegetables. Guests will suspect you handpicked the ingredients in these healthy passed appetizers:

Fried butternut squash ravioli
Saffron chickpeas with roasted tomatoes, cucumber, fennel, red onion and sherry vinegar
Brie and green apple crostini with fig jam and arugula
Scallion pancakes with vegetables
Butternut squash soup shooters

And do not be afraid to sprinkle in some rich passed hors d'oeuvres. Our sample cocktail menu is filled with to-die-for small bites like balsamic figs wrapped with prosciutto, stuffed with goat cheese and served with balsamic reduction.

Entice with Creative Vignettes

Smoking sirloin, root vegetable hash and cherry gremolata

Vignettes are a great place to set up impressive food displays where guests can craft their own favorite dishes. Try a sushi bar, winter pies or rice bar, or deck out a contemporary vignette with beautiful small dishes like:

Parmesan flan with local and seasonal wild mushroom ragu and micro salad
Ras al hanout sous vide salmon with lentils, kale and saffron parsnips
Smoking sirloin, root vegetable hash and cherry gremolata

Engage with Action Stations

Your parents probably told you not to play with your food, but come on, have a little fun with your Boston catering. Our friendly chefs love to greet guests and help them design a plate exactly to their liking.Our action stations are anything but ordinary. How about some Moroccan spice-encrusted tuna from the carving station? Or maybe you would like to top your pasta with Prosciutto di Parma? Anything you can dream up, from pot au feu to a smoking station, we can put into action.Action stations are also a great way to bring your culture to life. In the comfort of your own home, let our chefs honor your favorite cuisine. Our Boston catering team loves to create custom menus based on your family favorites.Check out these multicultural action station ideas:

Irish martini mashed potato bar: truffled mashed potatoes, blue cheese mashed potatoes, mashed sweet potatoes, garlic cheddar mashed Yukon gold potatoes
Asian station: suckling pig with hoisin sauce and flat buns, wok street noodles with scallions and bok choy, vegetable dumplings
Taco station: grilled mahi, smoked beef brisket, shredded chicken and cilantro lime-roasted veggie tacos

After the main action stations close and your !ndulge mini desserts roll out, keep the energy high with a sweet treats interactive station. Our Boston catering team puts on a great show when our chefs freeze meringues and ice cream pops using liquid nitrogen.Selecting your home as a venue can add serious value to your Boston party. Let our experienced catering team show you how to get the most out of your space and home party menu.To start designing your custom menu filled with creativity and personality, contact us online or give us a call at (617) 581-1150.

A Beautiful Diner en Blanc Networking Event

Charles River Ventures invests in experts—people who are the best at what they do. So we were honored when they chose our Boston catering team to service their Israeli Entrepreneurs networking event on September 5, 2014.Our corporate catering department created an elegant French-inspired cocktail party that surpassed expectations and proved that we are among the best experts that can turn a great vision into a reality. guests enjoying an outside event in Boston

A Diner en Blanc-Inspired Boston Cocktail Hour

The inspiration for this white color theme party was the famous Diner en Blanc. This popular, exclusive party has taken place in France since 1988, when it was first held in the Parc de Bagatelle. Although we did not keep the party location a secret as they now do in France, we put together an impressive rendition of the Diner en Blanc.

Customizing a White Party Venue

Each year, the French Diner en Blanc is held at a different (but always very prominent) public location. Charles River Venture wanted to transform the Armony family residence in Arlington into the ultimate white party.We knew just how to make that happen.The yard situated at the edge of quite water was the perfect place to set up modern white furniture and decorations.

We brought in sleek white leather furniture and a few small tables draped in elegant white fabric. Custom color linens and runners were no problem at all for our Boston catering company, which loves to personalize every detail. The design of the event, with beautiful Paris gloss white chairs among high- and low-top tables, perfectly echoed the feeling of the home and the Diner en Blanc inspiration.

Celebrating with the Finest Drinks

As the 85 guests arrived, our wonderful staff welcomed them with refreshing beverages and tempting appetizers. We also set up a scotch tasting lounge looking out on the water and a stunning lucite bar so guests could choose from signature cocktails and other fine drinks.Our dr!nk department was proud to offer this fabulous array of beverages:

Beers: Sam Adams Seasonal, Sam Adams Lager, Harpoon IPA, Heineken Light
Wines: white and red
The Macallan 12 Year: the exclusive use of sherry casks to produce this single malt whisky makes it one of a kind. The secret to giving it a unique aroma and flavor is that the spirit coming from the stills goes into casks that have been used to age Oloroso Sherry.
Glenfarclas 12 Year: an exceptional Highland whisky produced with about 80 percent of the spirit aged in used sherry casks and the remaining 20 percent in barrels once used to age bourbon whiskey.
Ardbeg 10 Year: widely recognized as one of the smokiest and most complex single island malts, peat-lovers were delighted to find this classic renowned drink.

Pantone Color Library of Mini Dishes

We custom designed a menu of small tastes to represent the many faces of friends and the brilliant color they bring to the world. In addition to passing colored macarons, we set up a contemporary display of stationary appetizers. We lit a custom pedestal buffet with elegant drum chandeliers and hot appetizers. Pantone Color Library of Mini Dishes

With healthy cuisine continuing to gain a following in Boston, these vegetarian small bites were a big hit:

Chilled potato soup sips with crispy Brussels sprouts: waffle cone, chipotle maple, celery leaf
Kalamata olive tapenade on shortbread with goat cheese mousse
Carrot panna cotta with cranberry compote
Roasted golden beet coins with micro greens and goat cheese mousse
Forest mushroom tarts with roasted garlic and ricotta

Roasted golden beet coins with micro greens and goat cheese mousse mini appetizer

Chilled potato soup sips with crispy Brussels sprouts

No mater how tempting our veggie-based appetizers may be, our premium meats are always hard to pass up. Few could resist these appetizers:

Turmeric-spiced grilled chicken with chilled jasmine rice salad and saffron aioli
Asian BBQ salmon with chilled Shanghai noodles
Mini medallions of beef and purple Peruvian potato salad with apples, golden raisins, pickle relish

After an evening of of cocktails, connections and fine cuisine, guests enjoyed one more delicious macaron. Guests could wrap up the evening with a simple espresso-based drink and the option of taking another macaron for the road.To customize your next event to perfection, contact our creative Boston catering team online or give us a call at (617) 581-1150.

Dan & Bob's NYE Wedding Bash

We were so excited to hear about Dan and Bob’s vision: an intimate Boston wedding on New Year’s Eve. We knew an elaborate custom wedding menu would be a central feature. But we were also prepared for the challenge of adding elements of surprise and New Year’s Eve activities to this immaculate Boston wedding.Check out how we created a New Year’s Eve extravaganza for Dan and Bob’s 131 guests.

A Spectacular New Year’s Eve Wedding in Boston

Dan and Bob wanted to plan a winter wedding filled with surprises and delectable options—two of our specialties! A Spectacular New Year’s Eve Wedding in Boston

An Intimate Boston Wedding Venue

Dan and Bob hoped to share their special day in a venue that would feel like a grand version of their Dedham home. Their goal was to create a charming atmosphere that allowed guests to celebrate and feel their joy and passion for life. We could not have dreamed of a more perfect location than the Endicott Estate.This antique mansion situated on 15 acres of lush greens and manicured lawns is stunning in its own right. But to add a bit of New Year’s bling to this big celebration, we used the finest vintage purple and ivory décor. Some final touches and personalization like the gold sequin runners, and we were sure the couple of honor would begin to feel like royalty.The touching wedding ceremony at the Endicott Estate glowed with timeless beauty. The elegant Endicott Estate proved to be the most idyllic backdrop for this couple’s love and family and friends’ support to shine bright. We will never forget Dan and Bob listening to their loved ones sharing stories about them as they proudly stood in front of the hand-carved fireplace. New Years Wedding at Endicott Estate

Unique Wedding Menu Ideas

Dan and Bob wanted a lavish array of food and drinks to arrive in waves from cocktail hour to the New Year.

Fun with Custom Drinks

At 7:30 pm, guests arrived and enjoyed three of the most unique signature cocktails from our dr!nk department. Our drink experts worked with Dan and Bob to craft these truly spectacular drinks at one of our mixology evenings. And based on guests’ reactions, they were indeed a big hit.Dan and Bob also stocked the bar with the most impressive wedding drinks. To deliver these tasty drinks with plenty of style, we brought in all types of glasses. From pilsner to highball and martini, guests were delighted by the amazing presentation of these drinks:

Wines: rose, red, white, sparkling
Beers: Sam Adams Seasonal, Harpoon IPA, Bud Light, Heineken Light
Hard liquor: vodka, rum, gin, scotch, bourbon/whiskey

A Lavish Cocktail Hour

As soon as the ceremony wrapped up, so began the cocktail hour filled with jazz music and delicious appetizers. In addition to an antipasto station with an array of the finest cheeses and small bites like prosciutto di parma and parmiggiano reggiano, guests had trouble passing up any of these passed hors d’oeuvres:

Grilled beef tenderloin on herb potato cake with horseradish aioli
Mini crab cake with roasted red pepper aioli and arugula
Lemongrass chicken lettuce wrap with scallion ponzu dip
Coconut shrimp with spicy pineapple sauce
Mini sliders with eggplant parmesan, mozzarella and marinara
Butternut squash soup shooters with poached cranberry and mini fontina grilled cheese

Dan and Bob also knew that some guests would want a lighter start to the evening, so they added a seasonal crudité shooter with buttermilk basil sauce to the nosh vignette. Way to nail the 2016 wedding trend of healthy food before the New Year!

Extravagant Wedding Entrees

After the sons and mothers danced, music ramped up and food stations were open for business. Dan and Bob wanted a plentiful array of energizing food so guests could dance and celebrate all night long. The main vignette was a risotto table with braised short rib, heirloom vegetables, mushroom ragu and creamy risotto. Our chefs cooked the vegetables to be a bit softer, per Dan and Bob’s request. Dancing at New Year Wedding at the Endicott Estate

Dancing at New Year Wedding at the Endicott Estate

Guests also raved about these rich and delicious short plates:

Ooey and Gooey Smoked Mac and Cheese: BG’s famous Vermont cheddar mac and cheese with crispy fried onion straws and applewood smoked bacon garnished with hickory smoked chicken. We added sautéed garlic broccoli to make this Dan and Bob’s dream macaroni and cheese.
Roasted Pork: punttanesca sauce, orzo pasta
Parmesan Encrusted Chicken: polenta, tomato brood

Sweet and Savory Late-Night Wedding Food

At 11:30 pm, Dan and Bob cut the custom designed wedding cake, and guests began to explore the spectacular desserts display. Many guests snagged an !ndulge mini dessert and good cup of coffee before the balloon wish ceremony at 11:40 pm. This was a truly memorable surprise event, complete with LED-lit balloons and guests writing well wishes before the grand release. With energy high, the slider station opened so guests could get a savory small bite before ringing in the New Year. Sweet and Savory Late-Night Wedding Food Custom Wedding Cake

“Slider Alley” featured these creative late-night snacks:

Grilled Chicken Slider: crispy onions, pickles and buttermilk and basil sauce
Cheeseburger Slider: pickle, special sauce
Carolina Pulled Pork Slider: root vegetable slaw
Portobello Mushroom Slider
French Fry Cone with sauces

Ringing in the New Year and Wedding Memories

In the ten minutes before midnight, we handed out hats and horns as well as passed champagne. At 11:59 pm, the midnight countdown began, and the rest is history. After much dancing and dining, guests headed for home with New Year’s Eve party favors and amazing memories. Ringing in the New Year at the Endicott Estate

Ringing in the New Year at the Endicott Estate

Jamison Wexler did an incredible job capturing the joy in this Boston wedding. Her playful and unique twist on Dan and Bob’s wedding photos gave guests one last surprise after the wedding. Guests had fun reviewing the wedding photo albums filled with candid moments and behind-the-scenes pictures.If you want to have creative and customized elements in your Boston wedding, contact our experienced catering team online or give us a call at (617) 581-1150.

5 Ways to Transform Your Boston Backyard Into a Party

Want an idea that will melt away visions of winter snow and ice? We have you covered!Think green grass, a light breeze and warm sunshine—some of the essential parts of the perfect spring or summer celebration in your Boston backyard. Pair those natural elements with our five ways to transform your space into a beautiful celebration. Then, everyone will be talking about your corporate party, social event or Memorial Day gathering.So, let’s get to it.5 Ways to Turn your Boston Backyard into an Outdoor CelebrationThis year’s corporate and social party trends lean toward a casual dining atmosphere. So, a laid-back, hip party vibe is the inspiration for our innovative ideas for your upcoming Boston backyard celebration.We believe that trend-worthy outdoor party ideas don’t have to pack a big punch to your wallet, but they should be so creative and new that your guests are impressed!1. Offer Hand-Held Food from Local Boston Farms and ButchersYour Boston catering company can bring in food carts filled with easy-to-eat, delicious bites of food. Guests can browse the options and satisfy their taste buds while keeping their conversations going.Perfect hand-held items that complement an outdoor atmosphere include:

Catered street food with locally sourced meats and vegetables
Small bites with an ethnic, spicy flavor palette like our Thai corn fritters with chili pepper and cilantro sauce
Chef-sliced local meats with house-made sides like our Moroccan vegetable stew with dried fruit or our farro salad with grilled summer vegetables with tangy goat cheese and fresh mint

2. Offer Healthy Drinks (and a Signature Cocktail) Healthy Drinks for Backyard Party

This year, healthy drinks like homemade fizzy sodas and fermented options like kombucha are all the rage. These cool refreshments deserve the praise because they are DELICIOUS! For both the non-alcoholic drinks and signature cocktails—which are a must at any backyard party—we suggest using local produce for a fresh, nutritious taste. Ideas for non-alcoholic delights include:

Cucumber-infused mineral water
Homemade ginger ale
Strawberry and basil homemade soda
Local kombucha in bottles or on tap—that’s a way to turn heads!

As for the cocktails, make a big batch ahead of time and spend optimal time with your guests. Even better, hire a professional bartender to be your creative mixologist.3. Don’t Forget the Local Boston Party Entertainment

As a premier Boston caterer, we partner with many local entertainment companies to make your event fun and unique. Photography, caricature artists, magicians, DJs and bands are just some of the entertainment the BG team can provide to enhance your lively Boston backyard celebration.4. Set the Scene with Lights and Backyard Furniture outdoor furniture for backyard events in boston

outdoor furniture for backyard events in boston

We pride ourselves in professional event lighting. In the case of a backyard celebration, you may desire a casual look with white round lights hanging between trees or a more dramatic look with uplighting near the edges of the outdoor space. Whatever it is you imagine, we can help your creativity to shine. Our lighting partners, Boston Event Lighting and Advanced Lighting and Production Services, are also available to help you achieve your backyard event vision.And of course, no party would be complete without furniture. If you are having an outdoor cocktail party, we suggest an assortment of high boys throughout the space. For an all-day event, guests will need a place to kick back. Our wicker couches with plush, colorful pillows and cushions will complete the look as well as provide a comfortable place to relax in the cool breeze.Take a peek at our photo gallery to see what we’ve done in the past. Of course, we are always willing to design something new specifically for you!5. Have Local Boston Donuts for Dessert Donuts and Dessert Table

Did someone say “donuts?” Chances are you’ve heard the word in the last 24 hours, because donuts are one of the hot items in 2016. Our catering team could pair your favorite varieties with artisan ice cream or one of your many popular mini-desserts. And you may want to keep this dessert menu a secret unless you want some party-crashers!That wraps up our journey into the spring and summer months for now!If you liked these ideas for a Boston corporate or social event in your backyard party oasis, we would love to speak with you to discuss how we can make your vision a reality. Please call our event planning experts and catering team at (617) 581-1150 or contact us through our website.More Articles You Might Like:

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Take a Walk Through a Top Boston Bar Mitzvah

We had so much fun welcoming more than 100 guests to this traditional bar mitzvah at a beautiful Brookline synagogue. Having overcome some unexpected challenges, our Boston catering team and simcha specialists are especially proud of how this May 2014 celebration came together.Take a look at how we honored Jewish traditions and family values in a wonderful series of events filled with delicious food, memorable ceremonies and plenty of fun.

Filling a Boston Bar Mitzvah with Jewish Tradition

When you compare Boston catering companies for your big event, you are probably looking for one that can handle everything from lighting to dining. This ensures that your event flows flawlessly. Working closely with the client to understand her vision, we planned a fun and meaningful series of events.

Friday Night Candelabras Lighting and Persian Cuisine

The celebration of becoming a man began with an elegant Friday evening dinner. Guests were greeted by a stunning display of candles among deep mossy greens. The traditional lighting of candelabras and blessings on wine and challah led up to a wonderful Persian dinner.Guests started their meal with perfectly seared salmon with pomegranate essence on mesclun salad with pomegranate dressing. We then served a family-style dinner, featuring these flavorful Persian dishes:

Khoresh sabzi
Chicken roulade: with cumin zereshk-scented rice stuffing and lemon sauce
Shirin polov
Basmati rice with saffron

As guests dined and celebrated, we wanted their focus to remain on the traditions, company and fine food around them. That is why we kept the décor simple yet dramatic. Inside the tent by BC Tent & Awning, colorful LED uplighting added a dramatic effect to a primarily white color scheme. Boston Bar Mitzvah Decor

We also made sure that the Boston bar mitzvah venue was thoughtfully set up so that the event would run flawlessly and in line with Jewish tradition. For example, a washing station outside the tent provided guests the ability to conveniently wash before eating.But we all know that it is attention to the smallest details that really brings an event together. From napkins bound with guests’ names to a menu that honors the mother’s love of food and her husband’s Persian heritage, we personalized the whole dining experience to this family. This commitment to Jewish traditions and family favorites also shined bright in the desserts, like Persian pistachio pareve ice cream, and drinks such as Persian cardamom tea.

Saturday Morning Kiddish

On Saturday morning, the entire community had the opportunity to join in the celebration and enjoy our fine cuisine. After the parents came down from the synagogue’s prayer service and the rabbi made a blessing over the wine, guests were invited to help themselves to some healthy and refreshing food at the kiddish.The motif was designed with the mother’s love of crisp, clean lines and rich fabrics in mind. Among a joyful color scheme of white, green and blue, guests found these exceptionally prepared and plated fish:

Grilled salmon with pearl couscous salad, olives, grape tomatoes, cucumber and oregano dressing
Curry grilled halibut with heart of palm taboule

Grilled salmon with pearl couscous salad, olives, grape tomatoes, cucumber and oregano dressing

We also prepared these five salads, so everyone was sure to find something they love:

Faro salad with fresh corn, spring peas, basil and lemon vinaigrette
Saffron chickpeas with roasted tomatoes, cucumber, fennel, red onion and sherry vinegar
Mixed greens with sweetened cranberries, roasted almonds and balsamic vinaigrette
Sesame noodle salad
Fruit salad

Keeping in mind that kiddish would be open to the whole community, we came prepared with no shortage of desserts. In addition to 600 petite pastries inspired by our !indulge mini desserts, we designed a fun candy station. We also wanted to respect the environment and community impact, so we made a point to use biodegradable plating. Even the 400 cups of wine were biodegradable!

Sabbath Day Luncheon in Boston

At 2 p.m., close family and friends continued to treat themselves to our delicious food. In the tent, we set up a buffet-style lunch with open seating for adults. We wanted this meal to be family-style to encourage guests to mix and mingle. And what better way to enable parents to relax and socialize than by giving them a break from the kids? Candy jars designated the tables for kids, and they went straight to them!In addition to having another chance at the drinks, salads and petite pastries that we featured at kiddish, guests found challah rolls, roasted turkey and chilled sliced London broil. Most people were pretty full from kiddish, but still, nobody could resist the lunch buffet! sabbath day luncheon food

Saturday Night Melava Malka

Around 9 p.m., guests came downstairs in anticipation of a great meal. It was our challenge not to disappoint them while respecting that our chefs could not begin to cook until 8:58 pm. This is because it would be disrespectful for our professional chefs to perform their work on the Sabbath. With over 180 people to serve and customs to honor, we were more than up for the challenge! Despite rain and limited time to transform the bar mitzvah venue, we set up a captivating and satisfying Boston Bar mitzvah. We even put together a Harry Potter-themed tent just for the kids while adults enjoyed a more modern chic experience inside the synagogue.Early in the evening, TV monitors and creative food displays enticed guests to try these fun foods:

Fried fish and chips in a bamboo cone
Sushi bar
Sushi "cocktail" of marinated salmon, avocado, soy glaze, jalapeno relish and sushi rice

We also set up a spectacular display of small plates and salads in cauldrons. Some crowd favorites were:

Chilled Thai noodle boxes
Blueberry green salad
Grecian quinoa
Toasted barley with shitake mushroom

With the expectation that the party would continue late into the night, we also planned interactive dessert stations. Guests had fun crafting their own ice cream sandwiches and torching s'mores. This fit in perfectly with the ambient lighting and faux fireplace designed to give the atmosphere of Hogwarts, honoring the son’s love of Harry Potter.Of course, the bar was also a popular gathering spot throughout the evening. We always have sodas and waters available, but you can’t blame guests for having their fair share of the sangrias, mojitos, whiskey and Sam Adams!We had a blast combining family and Jewish traditions with the passions and unique styles of individuals to create an extraordinary Boston bar mitzvah. From designing a custom menu to uplighting your bar, our innovative catering team takes the stress out of planning a bar mitzvah.To share your bar mitzvah vision with our experienced event planners, contact us online or give us a call at (617) 581-1150.

Kosher Style Catering for Your Boston Bar Mitzvah

BG works closely with the top Boston bar mitzvah venues and vendors to ensure that your beautiful celebration honors the Jewish tradition. Kosher style cuisine coupled with the careful guidance of a simcha specialist offer an unparalleled value to the Jewish Boston community. Working with a catering company that coordinates everything from your bar mitzvah décor to rentals will save you time and money.In this post, we share popular bar mitzvah menu and venue ideas to help you celebrate this important milestone with excitement and respect for Jewish traditions.

Symbolic Bar Mitzvah Food

This special meal celebrates a man or woman coming of age into greater responsibility. We can help you customize a kosher style bar mitzvah menu that suits your personal tastes and demonstrates your commitment to the Jewish traditions.

How to Design a Kosher style Bar Mitzvah Menu

Couple the finest drinks and most decadent kosher style dishes to treat guests to a lavish array of fine cuisine and meaningful customs. Working with a Boston catering company known for innovative food displays and the most professional servers will ensure your Boston bar mitzvah runs smoothly from cocktail hour through dessert.

Boston Bar Mitzvah Cocktail Hour Ideas

We are incredibly proud to offer Boston’s premier bartending service. Our fully licensed bartending team sets the standard for the most customized professional drink service. Our selection of sommelier-chosen wines and finely crafted cocktails are a favorite at any Boston event.When choosing bar mitzvah drinks, keep guests of all ages in mind. An adult cocktail hour likely features chilled champagnes and sparkling water with refreshing berries. We already have a lot of requests for health-inspired drinks—a top 2016 food trend. And be sure the kids also have plenty of fun and refreshing beverage options. They will be excited to find a virgin bar with fresh juices and mock-tinis.In addition to a wide array of fruits, smoked fish and gourmet cheeses, treat your guests to some of our favorite appetizers, like potato latkes topped with salmon, crème fraiche and caviar.Other top bar mitzvah hors d’oeuvres ideas include:

Salmon Cakes
Mini Beef Wellington
Hummus Sampler with Toasted Pita

Remember that the cocktail hour is no time for restraint. Guests will appreciate an extravagant selection from the finest Boston catering. Our chefs and mixologists can help you find appetizers and cocktails that pair nicely.

Chef-Attended Bar Mitzvah Food Stations

Let friendly and skilled professionals serve up fun, delicious entrées. You are sure to impress guests with kosher style versions of these incredibly popular interactive food stations:

Martini Mashed Potato Bar: Customize this celebratory innovative offering to highlight your favorite potatoes and toppings alongside traditionally popular ones, like Yukon gold potatoes with sautéed mushrooms.
Carving Station: Few can resist our premium meats cooked to perfection. Roasted beef tenderloin with a side of fire-grilled asparagus is a perfect celebratory entrée.
Pasta Station: Guests have fun playing chef as they choose from a variety of pastas, gourmet sauces and toppings like roasted garlic, spring peas and grilled chicken strips.

Bar Mitzvah Plated Entrees

Skilled chefs can put a unique twist on traditional favorites. One of our top picks is the stuffed chicken breasts. Depending on the season, you may try an apple and raspberry or sun-dried tomato and black olive filling. Homemade matzo ball soup and wild mushroom soup will perfectly complement this fine bar mitzvah entrée.

Fun Bar Mitzvah Desserts

The traditional Torah cake from the candle-lighting ceremony is always a favorite bar mitzvah dessert. But we also recommend setting up a dessert buffet that offers a wide array of kosher style visions of our ever-popular small indulgences. Guests love to grab these bite-size desserts while they socialize.You can also hype the party with an interactive dessert station. Chocolate fountains and sundae stations are a big hit among guests of all ages. If lots of children will be attending, consider a carnival theme. When you give away carnival treats as prizes at the booths, your dessert and entertainment will all be wrapped up in one!

Top Boston Bar Mitzvah Venues

There is a lot to keep in mind when choosing among kosher style Boston venues. Look for a classy event space that complements your lavish celebration. Also keep in mind your guest count and whether you will need a separate room for the adult and kid’s cocktail hours. From a temple to an estate, our seasoned event planners share their favorite Boston bar mitzvah venues.

Temples and Synagogues

Look for a temple with a social hall that matches your event vision and expected guest count. Also keep in mind your event date. A conservative synagogue welcomes guests with the utmost respect and warmth, but keep in mind that it will not allow music or electricity during Shabbat.Although a temple is the most traditional bar mitzvah venue, your big celebration can be innovative in design and cuisine. Jori’s hockey-themed bar mitzvah at Temple Beth Avodah showcased BG’s creative lighting and food displays. “Jori’s Penalty Box” food station added a fun and personalized touch to the celebration. You can take this bar mitzvah theme the extra mile by creating an arena and kiosks with food and tickets for guests to “purchase.”

Museums

Charles River Museum of Industry & Innovation

BG designers love to bring their artistic flair and modern style to historic Boston museums. Some of our favorite locations that inspire creativity and passion among guests are:

Charles River Museum of Industry & Innovation: Dating back to the 19^th-century textile mill, this historic Waltham venue is best known for its stunning views of the Charles River and plenty of room for up to 180 guests to dine and dance.
deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum: You will never forget a cocktail hour on the Rappaport Roof Terrace overlooking a pond and the sculpture park. This unique space is a great option for more intimate bar mitzvahs in Boston.

For a more modern yet equally artistic atmosphere, check out the Boston Architectural College. From conferences to bar mitzvahs, this educational college of spatial design boasts years of experience hosting a wide variety of Boston events.

State House or Estate

Your bar mitzvah photos are sure to have beautiful backdrops at one of Boston’s historic State Houses or stunning estates. Two of the most notable and stunning Boston landmarks available for private rentals are:

Old State House: Hosting a bar mitzvah in the magnificent restored historic rooms of the Old State House is one more way you can show your commitment to good works and Boston pride. Rental proceeds benefit the Bostonian Society, dedicated to preserving and sharing Boston’s history.
The Endicott Estate: This vast space is ideal for bar mitzvahs with large guest counts and out-of-town guests. 15 acres and conveniently located hotels place no limits on your Boston bar mitzvah vision.

Bar mitzvahs come at a very exciting time of life, so be sure to share the milestone with an equally enthusiastic Boston catering company. From designing a custom kosher style menu to choosing a theme, our passionate professionals make every step of planning a bar mitzvah fun and easy.To share your bar mitzvah vision with our experienced event planners, contact us online or give us a call at (617) 581-1150.

7 Tips for Choosing Your Boston Wedding Venue

Don’t let the stress of choosing a wedding venue cloud your priceless moments as a newly engaged couple. Our expert wedding planner, Denise DeSimone, is here to help. She draws from her real-world knowledge to give you simple tips for long-term planning and maintaining a joyful composure during this exciting – and hectic – process.

1. Know Your Guest List.

Wedding Guest List and Table Cards Boston

It is important to have a realistic idea of how many guests may attend.Brainstorm which family, friends and acquaintances you would like to invite by typing their names into an Excel spreadsheet. Explore this list as a couple and with family members who are dedicated to helping you plan or pay for the wedding.

2. Plan a Wedding Budget.

Your wedding is a big financial commitment. First you must know how much you can afford to spend on the venue before finding the place that fits your vision.

3. Don’t Procrastinate.

Couples will often wait too long to visit venues because they think they have more time. When reserving a wedding venue, especially a desirable location, brides can be booking up to two years in advance.

4. Get to Know Your Venue.

Search through our venue finder to narrow down your top choices and then make appointments to visit your favorites. Have your questions ready and be sure to see the whole space.Find out what each venue has to offer. For example, are tables, chairs, longer rental hours and guest parking available? Understanding all of this beforehand will help you determine when to start planning the décor and catering options.

5. Don't Be Overzealous.

Planning your wedding is an exciting time. Be careful not to get too wrapped up in your emotions. Remember to do your homework (listed above) and tour many venues well in advance. Write things down in a separate wedding notebook to give yourself a clear picture of each Boston venue option.

6. Read the Entire Contract.

Before signing on the dotted line, make sure you know the rules and what services and amenities to which you are entitled.

7. Enjoy it!

Enjoy Your Wedding with BG Events and Catering

Try not to get stressed out. Planning your wedding is supposed to be fun! Take it one day at a time and relish in the fact that you are preparing for most exceptional day of your life!We truly believe our bridal industry professionals are the best in the business. This practical list is just an example of the guidance we give to our couples on a daily basis.If you found this helpful and would like more help planning your upcoming “I do’s,” please call our wedding experts and catering team at (617) 581-1150 or contact us through our website.

Unique Birthday Party Ideas

Whether you are hosting your own or planning a surprise, Boston birthday parties are a great chance to flaunt your hosting expertise and have a truly great time. It doesn’t matter if you’re planning a 40^th birthday party or any age above or below; there is always a perfect party theme and perfect place to celebrate. We gathered some of the best themes and ideas, and with a little inspiration from our Boston birthday party guide, you can make this fete flawless!

Places to Host a Boston Birthday Party

Host a Boston Birthday Party at Frost Ice House

First of all, before the décor, before the menu, and before every other detail, you need the perfect venue. A great venue already sets the celebration up for success, so choose wisely! Here are some non-traditional birthday party venues that are sure to entertain your guests.

Boat bashes - if your guest list is small enough, a boat can be a perfect venue. It is intimate, fun and something special to really signify the celebration.
Make the space the entertainment - Boston is home to a plethora of amazing, unique venues. Take full advantage of this by hosting your party in an already entertaining environment, like the cool, icy world of Frost Ice Loft.
Classic house parties - sometimes it is best not to mess with a good thing. If a house party fits your laid-back group of friends, then make it the best!

Adult Birthday Party Themes

So you know where your party is going to be, but what’s going to make it unique? Themes are what make birthday parties memorable and special, and we have found some of the best!

Throwback to the old days - sure, you are getting older, but you have a lot of party left in you! Reminisce and show the kids how it’s done with a throwback party. Celebrate in the theme of whatever decade your crowd likes best, from the ‘60s to the ‘90s—it all works!
- Menu idea: Have a favorite childhood treat? Turn it into a classy dessert! Likewise, transform your favorite drink into a cool cocktail.

Casino night - the high-stakes thrill without the big-money bets! Casino parties are a fun way of celebrating in friendly (or not-so-friendly!) competition. Play for money or raffle items, gift cards or even treats.
- Menu idea: Handheld bites are best when playing games, so gather inspiration from these hors d’oeurves and petite desserts.

“Wig out” party - this theme is for the young-at-heart; everyone wears a crazy wig to the party—and an eccentric outfit to match, of course. You will be giggling and flaunting your new ‘do the entire night.
- Menu idea: Think creative and exotic when planning this menu; the theme is already so innovative, you will want cuisine to match! Try something like a martini mashed potato bar.

College revelries - college students are legendary party hosts, though maybe in a slightly different way. But one more night of undergrad fun might be just the thing for your friends. A keg, plenty of drinking games and general lightheartedness are a must for this theme.
- Menu idea: Upgrade your favorite college junk foods! Crunchy, salty snacks like potato chips are great for crusting chicken and fish.

For 50^th birthday parties - this theme is for a narrower group, but it is a good one! For those planning a 50^th birthday party, a ‘50s theme is a creative and fun idea. You missed out on the ‘50s, after all, with the greasers, hot rods, poodle skirts and more! These iconic symbols are excellent inspiration for an entertaining time.
- Menu idea: Did you know that this decade popularized both deviled eggs and the cheese ball? Also, slider hamburgers were created in the ‘50s, though for this theme, presentation is essential.

More Tips for Hosting Birthday Parties

Now that you have browsed some venues and themes for your celebration, it is time to solidify some details for that 30^th, 40^th or 50^th birthday party (or whichever birthday is approaching). Here are some things to consider in the planning process.

Serve a wide variety of drinks - while you certainly should have fun with your signature drink or alcoholic beverages, be sure to include something for the crowd who have little ones at home! Non-alcoholic drinks can be just as exciting as the alcoholic ones when you have the right recipe or the right bartender.
Decorate as needed - of course décor is important, but you need only include a few touches: colored cutlery and plates, banners, balloons, confetti—anything works. While Pinterest can provide many ideas, you can also personalize your menu, and it works to make the atmosphere festive and reinforce the theme as much as hours of decoration.
Use your resources - planning an adult birthday party can be complex, but it does not have to be! There are many resources out there to help and plenty of people willing to lend a hand. Divide up the work, make it a group project or even call on the experts to make this party what it should be most of all—fun.

Good luck, now have fun planning! Have any other questions? We welcome you to explore our Pinterest or contact any of our trusted partners.We love birthday parties too! If you are interested in seeing how we can help you with your birthday party planning and catering, contact us to talk about menus, venues and anything else you need, or you can call 617-581-1150 to talk to one of our highly-qualified event planners.

Boston Wedding Anniversary Ideas

If you have doubts about hosting a wedding anniversary party, remember that celebrating with friends and family who helped nurture your relationship throughout the years will show your appreciation for their support. Everyone who attends will leave with that warm, fuzzy feeling to pass on to his or her own family. So throw away the doubt and get started planning your love celebration!Here we have described traditional wedding anniversary themes for certain milestone years, and we have also listed some ideas to consider when planning and hosting at your favorite Boston venue.

Traditional Wedding Anniversary Themes

Your wedding anniversary is a celebration that represents your unique style. Small, intimate occasions work well for some, while others prefer a grand party. Luckily, a big city like Boston has a venue and catering team to help you with whatever style you choose.These themes draw on the traditional wedding anniversary gifts and flowers of medieval Germanic Europe as we implement the beauty and fragrance of each into the party theme décor.

10-Year Wedding Anniversary—“Tin” Years Strong

Representing your flexibility and adaptability, tin or aluminum is the material used to symbolize a 10^th wedding anniversary. Celebrate how far you’ve grown as a couple and set your sights on the next ten years. Use brushed or hammered aluminum in picture frames, plate charges or flower vases. Tin Flower Vases

We recommend using daffodils, the 10-year anniversary flower, to make gorgeous yellow and white arrangements that accentuate the aluminum flare of the vase!Our professional servers can pass appetizers on a shiny, modern tray stacked with balsamic figs wrapped in prosciutto and stuffed with goat cheese served with balsamic reduction. Picture the couple of honor greeting people at the door with, “Welcome to our 10^th wedding anniversary, where we’d like to treat you to delicious food and hugs of joy!”

Shining Silver at the 25-Year Wedding Anniversary

After 25 years, you’ve made it—now is your time to shine! Break out the silver passed down on your wedding day and get ready to celebrate through multiple generations. Contemporary trends lend a hand to silver accents, and you will be able to find décor like these amazing items:

Gorgeous silver pillows
Silver lighting fixtures
Silver mirrors surrounding pictures of the couple

25th Anniversary Gorgeous Silver Pillows

Incorporate the traditional iris flower into your 25^th wedding anniversary party to complete the theme.Why not pop the bubbly for the 25^th? Our staff can pass champagne among guests or pour it right before the toast at dinner. We can also have our fully licensed bartenders serve your choice of a custom signature cocktail, top-shelf liquor, fine wine and craft beer.

“Heart of the Oyster” for the 30-Year Wedding Anniversary

After three decades of marriage, we encourage you to celebrate in high style using the traditionally gifted item, the pearl, as the heart of your décor. Decorate with pearl accents throughout your wedding anniversary party using these fun ideas:

Pearl beads in the bottom of glass flower vases or candle votives
Pearl decorations added to life-size metallic letters
Pearl-colored tablecloths on the catered food tables

The couple of honor could wear the 30-year wedding anniversary flower, the sweet pea, in their corsage and boutonniere, complemented with the lady’s pearl earrings and a gown with pearls sown into it.This majestic pearl and sweet pea theme will pair with a raw bar featuring oysters, a decadent carving station where our chefs will grill lobster tail poached in butter and complete the dinner with your choices of grilled sides like asparagus with tarragon béarnaise.

Glitter with Gold for your 50-Year Wedding Anniversary

Be a king and queen for your special evening. Any couple with the married-for-50-years status will appreciate feeling like royalty among friends and family—as they should! The traditional theme for the 50^th wedding anniversary incorporates gold metallic tones in party décor in these modern, luxurious ways:

Gold crowns for the couple of honor!
Embossed gold furniture
Gold glass string lights around the food service tables and the seats for the couple

Violets are the traditional 50^th wedding anniversary flower; their deep purple color will highlight the golden accents throughout your Boston venue.Finish the evening with embossed gold desserts—what a delicious and beautiful way to end a glorious evening of celebrating love!You can find traditional wedding anniversary gift-giving ideas for every year here. Then simply apply the material to create a gorgeous party full of romanticism, inspiration and glorious memories.If you are looking for an expert catering team in Boston to help you plan and host your wedding anniversary love celebration, contact us. If you aren’t sure if we’re good fit for your needs, we invite you to explore past events on our blog!

Tips for Hosting a House Party in Boston

You finally set up your apartment or home in Boston just the way you like it. The décor, the paint and furniture—they are all perfect! Now you would love to share it with your friends or family for a fun evening of celebrating life, love and happiness. But how do you even begin to plan for such a big night?If this scenario sounds familiar, you came to the right place. We have some simple hostess tips to help you plan and execute a Boston home party that will exceed your own expectations. With a little inspiration from our catering team and expert event planners, you and your guests can enjoy scrumptious food, conversation and long-lasting memories of a night spent at home!

Tips for Inviting Guests to Your Home Party

The company you invite is just as important as the food you serve. Our smart tips will help you with this first step towards a successful home party.

Send hand-written invitations on custom stationery. This is the old-school way of doing things, but what an oh-so-charming and delightful item for guests to receive in the mail!
Add an RSVP to your personalized invitations, leaving enough space for guests to include individual dietary restrictions or other notes to the host.
Ask close friends to arrive early. Having some help preparing the tables and décor will ease stress on you as the hostess and add an opportunity for a little fun before the real party begins.
Brainstorm through your Boston network. Find acquaintances to introduce to your core group of friends and family. Having a bright new personality could spice up the usual conversation and possibly lead to new friendships. If this is a work-related party, maybe consider inviting a Boston VIP!

Tips to Dress Up Your House Party

stylish serving plates house party in boston

As a great hostess, you probably have a piece of pottery or serving plate that doubles as a collector’s item neatly tucked away in your cabinet. Having a party at your beautiful Boston home is the ideal time to use it! Any food you serve will look exquisite if placed on a serving plate that shows your personal style.We’ve also thought of some other ways to style your party that will make guests feel like kings and queens for the night!

Stylish serving plates can be scattered on the hors d’oeuvre table, nonchalantly impressing guests and willing them to try the delectable bites you’ve prepared.
- Hostess tip: If you plan to hire a caterer for your Boston home party, find inspiration from our online sample hors’ d’oeuvres menu.
Silver flatware will make guests feel particularly special! If you have a treasured collection, place enough forks, knives and spoons on a beautiful serving plate, allowing guests to serve themselves. For a more formal approach to a home party, set the table ahead of time with your freshly shined silverware.
Glassware and napkins are both decorative and functional. Trendy glassware and seasonal or modern prints on your napkins add class to your Boston home party and double as tabletop décor!
- Hostess tip: Two glasses per person will be enough to cover a variety of beverages, and two or three small and large napkins for each guest will suffice for appetizers and main dishes.
Other home party décor will add some extra flair. Bring out the candles, set the tone with chill background music, turn on all of your mood lights—it’s a celebration, and your house deserves to look good!

Tips for Serving Beverages at Your Boston House Party

Make the flow into your party easy for guests by guiding them to the collection of refreshments. Use some of these ideas to impress them with your creativity.

Non-alcoholic drinks like pre-made homemade ginger ale, Italian sodas or a fruity sparkling virgin punch can look classy in a glass carafe!
- Hostess tip: We suggest 1 8-oz specialty drink per guest. Also consider having bottles of bubbly water on hand, as not everyone will want a sweet drink.
Wines—the traditional dinner party staple! Have guests serve themselves, or a bartender can help make the evening flow flawlessly.
- Hostess tip: One bottle should serve 2 people per hour.
Signature cocktails also have a place at your Boston home party. Talk with our catering team to plan one that defines your personal style or party theme.
Champagne to host a toast requires one glass per person.
- Hostess tip: One 750ml bottle of champagne serves 6 people.

Tips for Serving Irresistible Food at Your Party at Home in Boston

Our premier Boston catering company is always ready and willing to help you prepare the most scrumptious set of hors d’oeuvres and main dishes. If you prefer to take on some of the dishes yourself, these suggestions will help.

Make the main dish beforehand. After simply heating it up in the oven, you will not only make the house smell AMAZING but also create time for yourself to mingle instead of laboring in the kitchen.
Serve a familiar dish. Do not stray from your usual specialty. A new idea on Pinterest may seem like a smart move, but it’s safer to stick to what you know when hosting a large number of guests.
- Hostess tip: Encourage a close friend to help you with the clean-up. It’s a good way to decompress and have some treasured one-on-one time after the big crowd leaves.

Our innovative dishes are listed in the sample menus online, offering a highlight of our award-winning options sure to please any crowd. We can always customize the menus to accommodate any dietary restrictions for guests at your home party.We would love to help plan the perfect, intimate night at your Boston home party. If we sound like the right fit, you can call our expert catering team at (617) 581-1150 or email us through our contact page.If you aren’t really sure about hiring a catering company, start by following us on Twitter or Facebook to get to know us better! We hope we can help you make a gorgeous—and delicious!—evening to remember.

Boston Venue Spotlight: Multicultural Arts Center

We are so happy to introduce a new venue to our list of trusted partners, the Multicultural Arts Center. The Multicultural Arts Center has long been a special place in East Cambridge, and it is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.This award-winning venue was originally designed by noted architect Charles Bullfinch in 1814 and finally opened to the public in 1889. In 1985, modern architect Graham Gund provided the plans for the extensive renovation and repurposing of the Multicultural Arts Center now referred to as the "hidden gem." Cambridge Multicultural Arts Center Along with acting as the home for various dance, music, poetry and theater performances, the two fine art galleries boast a regular rotation of artwork from both local and international artists. It can also serve as a perfect spot for your next elegant event in the Boston area, from corporate parties to the most exquisite wedding. Our passion for unique space and creative cuisine matches the vision of the professionals at the Multicultural Arts Center — a splendid combination of the best in the business — any time of year.

Versatile and Elegant Boston Area Venue

The Multicultural Arts Center was originally built for the creative minds in music, dance and theater; however, the dramatic architecture of the three primary rooms is idyllic for weddings, corporate events or other social celebrations.

Centanni Way Park: Traditional brick buildings line the surrounding lawns with trees and brick walkways. Loving couples can say their vows under the arbor during Boston’s warmer months, and, of course, MAC’s wedding planners can always move the ceremony inside in the event of inclement weather.
Upper and Lower Galleries: Walk amid the modern and historic art displayed on the walls while enjoying signature cocktails and scrumptious bites of food. The Upper Gallery can seat 40-50 guests and the Lower Gallery can host 30-40 guests for a more intimate environment.
Historic Theater: As the former Middlesex County Courtroom, the theater has all the elements of historic New England luxury. Picture your guests admiring the decorative high ceilings, full-length windows and the soft teal-colored wrap-around balcony as they step onto the marble floors at your next special event. Guest capacity is 150 for a plated dinner and dancing or up to 200 guests to mingle in a cocktail atmosphere among high top tables.

Versatile and Elegant Boston Venue Multicultural Arts Center

Décor Ideas for the Multicultural Arts Center

The exquisite Victorian touches in MAC’s theater lend a hand to our professional event planners, as simply adding linens and flowers will finish the look of this historic space. However, the uplighting, spotlights, pipe and drape can also dress up the theater into an intense, artsy scene! Décor Ideas Historic and Artistic Venue Boston

Décor Ideas Historic and Artistic Venue Boston

Amenities at the Multicultural Arts Center

Expert wedding planners will help each couple plan every detail of their romantic indoor or outdoor wedding. Amenities include a bridal suite, gorgeous reception area and a kitchen for customized food and drink from the most sought-after Boston catering team. Outdoor Weddings in Boston at Multicultural Arts Center

Outdoor Weddings in Boston at Multicultural Arts Center

How Do You Get There?

Public Transportation: The MAC is located just two blocks from the Green Line or a 15-minute walk from the Kendall Square Red Line. You can find specific details about public transportation on its website.Driving and Convenient Parking: The website also has detailed directions to its location on 41 Second Street. We suggest using the East Cambridge Parking Garage that is only one block away from the MAC and is open 24/7. You can also find limited metered parking nearby.

Map of Cambridge Multicultural Arts Center

Where Can You Stay?

There are several hotels within walking distance, such as the Royal Sonesta, Hotel Marlowe and the Holiday Inn Express.To start planning your corporate event or social gathering, contact our experienced catering team. If the Multicultural Arts Center seems like the perfect place for you, we can help you coordinate with the sales team at 617-581-1150.

BG's in Catersource Magazine!

The International Catering Association (ICA) featured BG Events and Catering’s 2015 holiday party themes!You can find both of our glamorous holiday themes for the season, “Snowball” and “Sparkle,” in the September/October issue of Catersource Magazine. In fact, each one is accompanied by descriptions and images in the article entitled, “Holiday Parties of 2015.” Check out page 52 and 53!It is our honor to receive recognition from an organization that aims to inspire creativity within the catering community. We would also like to send a big thank you to Catersource for publishing our holiday party theme ideas.We will continue to push the limits of possibility in innovative Boston catering. Keep an eye out for our fabulous cuisine and décor at weddings, private, social or corporate events!

10/27/15 10/27/15

Holiday Party Décor Ideas

Soon, Boston will be a city bright with the holiday spirit. We can help you bring that charm into your holiday party venue, creating a scene that is uniquely yours with gorgeous décor. After all, what is a party without some decoration?This year’s trends served as the source of inspiration for our list of ideas. Each section has décor ideas for both a vintage and a modern look. However, our expert event planners can help you design any style that speaks to you!

Lighting

Lighting sets the ambiance in any party, but for the holidays we suggest either a cozy vintage feeling or a modern, city chic look.Hang pendant lamps with Edison-style antique bulbs over the dining areas or cocktail tables and accent with vintage candelabras or chandeliers. Finish the look with soft white string lights.Include a modern lighting setup with brightly colored pipe and drape uplighting – one color or many. Our dependable lighting vendors could also flood the ceiling with small snowflakes or sparkling evening stars. Set up a monogram of your company’s name, party theme or a familiar quote for the holidays like, “Joy to the World.”

Furniture

Chic lounge furniture is all the rage this year. It offers a cozy place for intimate conversations and adds a luxurious tone to the entire event. Use a carpet to square off space and always have a table for drinks or appetizers.We love adding red plaid flannel or creamy white cotton pillows to a comfortable couch. Finish the look by adding a large holiday votive, a small bouquet of poinsettias or a dish of delectable holiday cookies on rustic wooden tables.A modern lounge would have sleek lines and a shiny surface potentially paired with geometric pillows. Set up a light wood table near the couches and use metallic holiday decorations to give it some flair. Your guests will love the simplicity amid the craziness of the season!

Bartop Décor

Make your bar so enticing that everyone who attends cannot resist splurging on a cocktail. Offer several varieties of signature drinks, local brews and nonalcoholic drinks. Here are some ideas to draw your guests’ attention:

Dress up the description of your signature cocktail with a metallic wooden frame or consider writing drink items on a chalkboard, like the super hipster trend popular in restaurants.
Hang flowers or a wreath along the wall as a backdrop to the bartenders to add a delicate touch.
Use gold or copper-colored cocktail shakers and finish the drink with a red and white candy-cane colored straw (or any color you’d like!).

Tabletop Décor

If you are having a plated dinner for your guests, bring their eyes to the gorgeous table setting while they enjoy delicious, innovative entrees from our topnotch catering team. We like these décor ideas:

For a vintage touch, place various sized candles in the center of the table to bring out the rustic white linen table runners.
Include place settings with vintage print name cards to make each guest feel extra special.
Arrange fresh holly branches or evergreen garlands down the center of the table to add a woodsy touch, not to mention the delightful smell of the outdoors!
Consider using contemporary glass vases to add holiday items, such as fresh cranberries, sparking ornaments, metallic-painted pinecones or a traditional bouquet from one of our trusted florists. This look works for both modern cocktail tables and a formal dinner setup.

Take these ideas and make the magic of the holiday season come alive at your next Boston holiday party. Just give us a call or drop an email and we’ll be happy to help you every step of the way.

Our Favorite Boston Holiday Venues & Décor

If you are going to host a beautiful holiday party, be glad you are in a city as beautiful as Boston. With its wide array of both modern and historic venues, one of them will certainly fulfill your vision for the ultimate holiday party. Our website has an easy-to-use venue selector application to start the process. We also thought it would be useful to highlight some of our favorite venues and give you ideas for holiday themes and décor that would harmonize well with each space.

Three Boston Party Venues and

Ideas for Matching Holiday Décor

90FS

Burr! Don’t let the cold winter air deter you from enjoying a night out on the town at 9OFS. As the sophisticated space whisks you away with its elegant touch, you can glance out the window at the snow and ice on the building’s garden terrace. Located on One Federal Street in the Financial District, this calm space can accommodate up to 110 guests seated and up to 200 for a cocktail reception. Choose either the gallery or the loft, as each provides a warm setting with a view of the sparkling city lights downtown. 90FS Boston Venue

9OFS Holiday Décor Ideas:

We think a “White Winter Wonderland” theme would complement the chic feeling inside 9OFS. You can line the wall-sized windows with LED lights and use large dazzling white floral arrangements on each of the cocktail tables, sitting areas, and bar and food stations to draw the theme into circles of conversation.Hang silver snowflakes from the ceiling or project snowflake images on the walls and floors with help from one of our recommended lighting vendors. Blue uplighting, a glistening evergreen tree and modern white lounge furniture will brighten the moods of everyone attending. And who knows? Maybe Mother Nature will add to the theme with a dusting of snow on the terrace!

9OFS Holiday Menu Package:

Cocktail ideas to complement your “White Winter Wonderland” include a white cosmopolitan or bubbly prosecco. We can customize a dinner menu or an appetizer menu depending on the type and scale of your party. We think an all-white dessert table that includes decorated sugar cookies would be a perfect end to a stunning evening at 9OFS!

Cyclorama

Located in the Boston Center for the Arts, this historic space was built in 1884 in Boston’s South End neighborhood. It is the home to the largest collection of historic Victorian brownstones in all of New England, and can serve as a gorgeous versatile space for parties hosting up to 1,000 guests! Brick walls and its distinctive copper dome accent the grandiose vibe of Cyclorama’s 23,000-square-foot space. Cyclorama at Boston Center for the Arts

Cyclorama Holiday Décor Ideas

Playing to the historic look of Cyclorama, we envision the theme as “Old-Fashioned Winter.” As this space was originally built to display large panoramic scenes, we envision this holiday party would have a beautiful winter scene acting as its backdrop.This view could include a scene with sturdy Belgian horses pulling a red sleigh dressed in holly leaves. There could be a couple bundled together smiling as they’re being pulled along through the snowy night sky. Next to that scene could be an ice skating rink full of people who are dressed in old-fashioned clothing and bonnets, gliding along near snow-covered trees.Complementing the panoramic scene would be old-fashioned décor like hand-knit stockings to hang from the bar, pinecone arrangements, strings of popcorn to hang along the evergreens and vintage chandeliers above classic lounge furniture. The ceiling height in Cyclorama is something worth noting when considering decorating ideas. You could either place a tall decorated holiday tree in the center of the room to act as a beautiful focal point or hang a collection of LED lights from the ceiling in a dazzling spectacle of soft light.

Cyclorama Holiday Menu Package:

Going along with our old-fashioned theme, you could offer classic eggnog to your guests or the old-fashioned classic bourbon cocktail! Again, we can customize a menu based on your preferences, but we suggest offering an old-fashioned holiday meal such as chicken potpie with homemade stuffing and roasted vegetables. And for dessert, no one would turn down small bites of fudge or traditional holiday cookies!

BSA Space

Guests will love the clean, modern lines and the wide, airy feeling of the Boston Society of Architects (BSA) space. You can host up to 300 people in the rooms overlooking Fort Point Channel and the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway. This LEED Platinum-certified building has all the updated technology in each of the multiple galleries and small rooms totaling 6,800 square feet. Boston Society of Architects

BSA Space Holiday Décor Ideas:

The Pearl Street, Harbor, Channel and Congress rooms are intimate settings for small holiday parties, but if you can rent multiple spaces, each room can be a different part of your theme! The “Colorful Christmas” theme would allow you to decorate each room in a different color with modern décor to match the lines in the building’s architecture.Speaking of décor, we love the look of brightly colored geometric-shaped ornaments on the limbs of bare, white trees. Adding ombre color table runners and simple flower arrangements with glass vases adds a nice touch to this holiday theme. You could stack various sizes of gift boxes with solid-colored, striped, or polka-dotted wrapping paper along the edges of the walking space.

BSA Space Menu Package:

A signature cocktail at this party should be colorful, maybe a Cranberry Mojito! Our event planning team and chefs can also help create a colorful array of food to serve your guests. As for desserts, maybe consider the light taste of macaroons, especially since you can make these little tasty desserts in multiple different colors!Whichever venue you choose in Boston, we know our catering team can help you design a theme to suit your vision. We will make sure your holiday party is the best evening ever!

10 Tips for Planning an 'After-Work' Holiday Cocktail Party

After a long day at work, the last thing any of us want is more stress. However, you would probably welcome a chance to relax after work with a nice cocktail and delicious food! Getting together for an evening in Boston should be fun and easy and we have some tips to help make that possible.

Why You Should Host a Holiday Cocktail Party

A relaxing place can lead to other enjoyable conversation and may even help spark fresh ideas for work or life outside of work.
Giving co-workers an opportunity to bond builds community. And what better time for community than during the holidays?
Getting to know the people you see every day can enhance everyone’s sense of trust and respect for each other.
Cocktails, appetizers, community – a winning combination for a successful after work holiday party!

Send out invitations. Everyone should know to pencil the party into their calendars. This gives them a chance to find babysitters or rearrange other plans as necessary. These invitations can be sent through email or internal memos. Also mention that this is an informal party, where people can come and go as they please.
Encourage leadership to attend. Staff is more likely to pop in for a drink if their boss will be there. Again, this type of party isn’t meant to have a “you must attend!” feeling, but instead, to serve as a place for people to get to know each other better. Casual conversation amid the holiday atmosphere can only lead to a positive experience for all!
Make the location easily accessible. Our Boston catering team can help host the party somewhere in the office or at a reserved venue nearby. Don’t make attendees stress over getting there. If employees have to take a short walk to the location, that’s ideal. A little fresh air on their way to a nice warm, welcoming destination will put them in the perfect mood to celebrate. Ideally, guests can leave whenever they like and take their normal commute home afterward!
Set up an open concept venue space. We would recommend using high boys to accommodate people standing and talking. Scaling back on formal seating lets everyone know it’s ok to just stop in to say hi. If you do prefer to offer seating, think about using chic lounge furniture. Guests would feel very special sitting and sipping their signature cocktail while talking with a co-worker in the bright holiday vibe.
Serve hors d’oeuvres only. Make sure guests are aware that our Boston catering team will only be serving small bites. That way, they can plan to eat before coming or to a share a meal with others afterward. Certainly though, they can look forward to delighting in the comforting tastes of the holiday season.
Expand the bartending. If the party lasts only a couple of hours, do not make your guests spend 20 of those precious minutes standing in line at the bar. Instead, have your catering team set out a premixed signature drink on trays for attendees to take as they come in the door. You could also have multiple bar setups throughout the venue, including our trendy Lucite bar carts. If you only have room for one bar, have three bartenders there to move the line quickly as they serve cocktails, beer, wine or nonalcoholic drinks.
Offer a small momento of the party. Guests would love to get a cool decoration for their office desk, maybe an ornament with the company logo. Maybe you could offer them a delicious Artisan holiday cookie to take home to their kids or spouse. The idea here is to offer a thank you to those who took the time to attend and share in building the work community.
Have the corporate mascot join the party. This will keep the party low-key and fun. Guests will probably take a few selfies with your energetic mascot, and there’s nothing wrong with employees who offer free marketing through their personal social media platforms.
Have an after work holiday party hashtag. You could even stream the hashtag Twitter feed on a blank wall of the venue using a rented projector. This would encourage conversation and help people find their creative holiday spirit.
Ask the CEO of the company to write a small thank you note for attending. Employees will feel appreciated for their contributions inside and outside the office. It’s also a nice gesture to encourage holiday cheer.

We would love to talk with you about other ideas you have for your after work holiday party. We can customize appetizer menus and signature drinks and can coordinate with our partners to create the informal evening you envision. Please call or email us – we are happy to help!

2 Holiday Party Themes We Absolutely Adore

The fall season only means one thing: the holidays will be here in a blink of an eye! If you are a Boston company with a budget to host a holiday party, you should already have a set date, venue and a premier catering company. If not, get on it! Or maybe you are so organized that you coordinated the major items, have finished picking your theme and associated decor. To you, kudos!For those who need some help in the creative department, we would like to introduce you to two of our favorite holiday party themes: “Winter Woodland” and “Make Merry.” Both are neutral, in that guests from any cultural or religious background can appreciate the wintry joy associated with each of the themes. Of course neutral doesn’t mean boring. We are always pushing the limits of possibility in catering, and holiday party features are limitless!If you choose one of these themes, your guests will be stepping out of the wintry mix on the streets of Boston and into a lively scene of a rich, glamorous celebration.

Winter Woodland Holiday Party Theme

Rustic chic — that trendy design phrase you’ve heard all year. Well, it has been popular because it’s, well, gorgeous! When paired with elements of wood, organic linens, industrial pieces and even small animals as décor, your Winter Woodland will come alive. We have matched simple, elegant décor with our suggested signature drinks and activities to give you examples of how to personalize your holiday party.

Glowing Walk in the Woods

Imagine welcoming guests to your party by way of a snowy walk through an evergreen forest. We can help you decorate as you envision, but we would suggest the following additions that have made an appearance in the latest holiday couture:

Scatter small woodland creatures about the entrance – in trees and behind rocks. These charming little guys will light up the faces of your guests of all ages as they begin to feel like they are in a holiday storybook!
Hang soft white branches over the copper-colored runway that flows between your woodland setup, completely immersing your guests into your theme.

Rustic Signature Drinks

As guests wander to the bar, we will be waiting there to help them get their party started. Adorn rustic evergreen, pinecones and tousles of baby’s breath to brighten up strings of beautiful LED lights so that your bar will be a fun place to stop over and over. Our specialty is our customizable signature drink menu but here are a few suggestions to go along with your Winter Woodland theme:

Mulled wine with cranberries and rosemary
Maple-bourbon Chai tea toddy

Note: We always serve nonalcoholic drinks as well for those driving or underage.*Custom Menus: To go along with our signature drinks, we will have a set menu coordinated perfectly to your theme. Of course, our catering team will work directly with you to ensure they accommodate for any dietary needs or specific tastes in food.

’Tis the Season for Giving:

If you have asked guests to bring a charitable donation in the form of money or gifts, may we suggest having a gift-wrapping station! Of course, the wrapping will be burlap and the bows made of colorful soft twine. Guests could drop their rustic chic package in our life-size woodland sleigh and admire the pile of gifts that will continue to grow as the night progresses.

Memories to Take Home:

If your guest list is large enough, it might be fun to set up a backdrop of a cozy cabin scene where guests can pose for pictures! Our event planning team can help you choose a photographer who can help guests pose in their new rustic home in the woods. It might be fun to have props on hand as well. Small woodland animals like a fox, squirrels and owls could be a great feature to some entertaining photos!

Make Merry Holiday Party Theme

The chic look of this holiday party includes warm shades of white, a variety of metallic accents, snowy or frosted décor and beautiful lights. They are not only traditional holiday decorations, but also happen to be a current design trend, as LED lights are so simple to hang from ceilings, beneath bar tables, around DJ stands or wherever you can imagine. So, we’ll go along with that and create a space so inviting that guests will not want to leave at the end of the night!

All-White Holiday Party

As guests enter your party, we imagine they will smile as Bing Crosby’s booming voice sings his classic carols. If you plan for an intimate party with a small guest list, we think it would be cool to have a record player adorned with small pea-sized LED lights! It is a true meeting of vintage and contemporary style. As always, playing music that makes your guests sing-along will put everyone in the holiday spirit.

Industrial Look, Warm Feelings

The theme will have décor that looks handmade, using aged metals, metallic accents and various shades of white linens and other natural materials. We will write our place settings and cuisine descriptions in flowing cursive print as well as life-size copper letters glowing with antique light bulbs, possibly spelling “Make Merry” or whatever else you would like!

White Signature Drinks

Elegant and soft, our Make Merry theme would only be complete with a delicious signature drink made especially by our catering team. We suggest the following choices:

Bubbly Champagne with a toss of fresh berries at the bottom of the glass
White Cranberry Martini

A Snowy Lounge

Guests can share a drink and some hors d’oeuvres with old or new friends at our snowy lounge! Our furniture rental partners can bring in soft white couches embellished with rustic linen pillows and plush white blankets. To make it a more intimate area, we envision beaded lamps set on the side table near the couches and, of course, a handcrafted wood table on which to set your drinks.This blog offers only a small peak into the possibilities for these two holiday party themes. Most likely, we have stirred your interest enough that you may want to speak with one of our event planning professionals. Please call or email us, as we are happy to help you with all the steps to make your holiday party unforgettable!

International Special Events Society Annual Meeting at FROST Ice Loft

Frost Ice Loft Ice Sculpture The Northeast region of the International Special Events Society held their annual kick-off meeting last month at the new FROST Ice Loft in Boston’s historic Faneuil Hall. This new permanent bar made completely of ice is at the cutting edge of unique design space, a fitting venue for an event dedicated to pushing the limits of creative potential. Industry partners gathered for an evening of networking and learning about upcoming event trends from Los Angeles’ top event planner, David Merrell.The theme “Forecast the Future,” played on words of the cold-weathered venue and offered insight to everything new in the event industry – from food to decorating style. One of the goals of the night was to “excite the creative force within,” and our Boston catering team gladly rose to the occasion.Presenting in the FROST’s gallery overlooking Quincy Market, International Special Events Society partners motivated members to think outside the box with forward-thinking design strategies. The audience looked on with open ears and frequently exchanged rounds of laughter – a true sign of a positive experience. Our Boston catering team took great pride in providing a setting where stimulating food and drinks complement comfortable, modern ambience to create a perfect evening for idea sharing!

Inspire Guests With Contemporary Décor

Our partner Rentals Unlimited dressed high cocktail tables with silver mosaic linen and the low tables with satin navy blue linen to match the contemporary gray on the walls and cool-toned wood on the floors. AFR Furniture Rental provided theater-style soft seating, which served as a place for attendees to socialize with a cocktail or our delicious cuisine. We also added a little glam to the modern chaise lounges with accent sparkling pillows!The little bouquets of elegant white and red flowers added a pop of color to the room. Boston Sound and Light Company LLC installed dynamic blue and purple uplighting and white antique pendants, both that casually attracted eyes to the white glowing lanterns scattered throughout the high ceiling.Guests who wandered to the FROST bar on-site, saw the blue glow of various ice sculptures and decorative hanging strings of ice blocks that certainly caught their attention, as did the room temperature of 21 degrees! Attendees who had to spend a few minutes in the cold would always remember how this interesting, novel venue in Boston left lasting memories, an effect each of them certainly hope to leave on guests of their future events.

Inspire Conversation With Bar Snacks

We used a unique array of small bites to engage all the senses and spark creativity in the minds of the event attendees. First, to give guests a taste of what was to come, we set out bar snacks on shelves resembling delicate floating clouds. Here is what we served:

Cider roasted olives
Lemon-thyme house roasted nuts
Truffle popcorn
Rosemary Parmesan biscotti

Our bartenders also served martinis, wines, local brews and non-alcoholic drinks to suit the tastes of everyone in attendance, not to mention those needing a little liquid courage to get their creativity flowing.

Inspire Classics into Contemporary With Tray Passed Hors d’oeuvres

Going along with the ice theme, we used clear plastic shelving, as well as clear serving dishes, to display our appetizers. To warm up the dish a little bit, we used cool green succulents as garnish. At an event meant to spark creativity, we believe many of the conversations started with comments about these inspiring starters:

Black olive donut, goat cheese mousse, tomato jam
Dill macaron, horseradish cream cheese, smoked salmon
Chicken tamale cup, crema, chimichurri
Pumpkin hummus, beet tartare, pickled mustard seeds

Inspire New Technique With Cheese Freeze

There was a high probability of having futuristic cuisine at an event called “Forecast the Future,” so we aimed to satisfy this anticipation with our cheese freeze! Our Boston catering team served frozen cheese into little “crackers” balanced with a savory topping. Guests could choose from goat cheese with roasted grape, blue cheese with candied walnut and St. Andre with port jelly.

Inspire New Flavors With a Contemporary Vignette

Once guests had tasted all the fresh (and frozen!) appetizers, we caught their attention with the aroma of our main courses. Our bold, blue sea glass-colored dishes exemplified these beautiful pieces of artful cuisine:

Parmesan flan with local and seasonal wild mushroom ragu and micro salad
Ras al hanout sous vide salmon with lentils, kale and saffron parsnips
Smoking sirloin, root vegetable hash and cherry gremolata

Inspire Goodness With Sweet Endings

Having a small bite of different sweets was the perfect way to end the evening of creativity and idea sharing. Guests enjoyed our pastry chef’s hazelnut eclairs and other delectable desserts served dim sum style.We couldn’t decide if the location, New England’s only permanent indoor bar designed and furnished entirely of ice, was just as captivating as our Boston catering team, the designer of the event’s inspirational line of dishes. However, the combination of the two certainly puts New England’s International Special Events Society chapter in the first class category.Other event partners who contributed to a wonderful evening include 617 Weddings, TEN31 Productions, Black Thumb Studio and Fun Enterprises Inc.If you would like to explore new ideas for your next event, please call or email our event planning team. We are happy to help!

Holiday Party Entertainment Ideas

Thinking back to memorable parties you’ve attended, what do you remember the most? Chances are you will remember the little things that made that party unique.Whether you are planning an intimate holiday gathering or a bustling corporate event, our recommendations for holiday party entertainment will surely leave a lasting impression on all of your guests. So, ignite the holiday spirit early and plan to put a few of these ideas into action this season.

Fun Food Stations

guests enjoy Interactive liquid nitrogen station

Let your premier Boston catering company wiggle their way into the night’s entertainment. Wow your guests with one of these featured activities:Decorate holiday cookies: Ask your catering company to bake sugar cookies or gingerbread men that guests can decorate with icing, sprinkles and other candies. Guests can choose to beautify their cookies and then eat them, or maybe they will choose to take them home for a dessert the next day.Interactive liquid nitrogen station: Old Man Winter enters your holiday party in the form of frozen desserts! Guests can freeze treats in liquid nitrogen at our interactive station! A favorite is the frozen popcorn ball called Dragon’s Breath that casts a large puff of smoke into the air.Gingerbread house: Family, friends or colleagues can join the kids at the party to build their own unique gingerbread houses. Your Boston catering company can provide all of the delicious, edible supplies to make these take-home creations. This is a fun activity sure to be a hit among the young guests.

Capture the Moment

Photo booths: The ever-popular photo booth never seems to get old. Dress up in holiday garb and carry your silly props in the booth to create lasting memories you can take home with you.Walk the red carpet: The entertainment can begin as soon as your guests enter the door. They’ll feel like superstars walking down the red carpet setup into your Boston holiday party. Guests can strike a post as the photographer captures the moments in front of your corporate banner or gorgeous holiday backdrop.

Get the Party Started With Music

Pianist: Maybe you hope for a joyful night with a smaller group of guests, possibly close family and friends or a core group of employees. Hire a pianist to fill the room with familiar carols where guests may be so inclined to sing-along.Music ensemble: For intimate gatherings, you may prefer three or four instrumentalists who specialize in classical rhythms or an upbeat jazz sound. Filling the room with beautiful sound will create holiday memories for all who attend.Live band: Maybe you have a corporate culture for the young at heart. This holiday season, entertain your large group of 200 or more with a band that can get the crowd dancing all night!DJ: Plan the music for your event with a DJ and make sure he is one who can feel the vibe of the guests. Look for someone who can play music that keeps everyone engaged. We recommend playing hip holiday music from modern artists. Maybe handout holiday accessories like Santa hats, glow stick bracelets or brightly colored sunglasses to everyone on the dance floor to wear. Make sure the photographer is present when the dancing begins. Talk about cool pictures!Karaoke: Oh the infamous karaoke night! If you are having an informal holiday party, this form of entertainment can be a blast. It is ideal if you have a venue with more than one room, giving guests a chance to participate or mingle in another room instead.Give Back: Hire a local children's choir or non-profit musical entertainment group and offer their organization a nice donation as a "thank you" for performing at your holiday event. It's a nice way to give back this season, plus it's a great way to discover and enjoy local musical talents!

Performers Who Steal the Show

Tight Rope Walkers Entertainment for party

Dancers: Office parties can get quite exciting when employees see professional dancers enter the room. Opt for a dancing duo who ignites the holiday spirit by engaging guests to try out their own moves.Tight Rope Walkers: Clear the room after everyone had some delicious food and drink. Make way for acrobatic pros who can walk the tight rope. Your Boston catering company is happy to arrange these entertainers for your hit party.Magicians: Everyone will feel like a kid again as they enjoy some holiday magic tricks! In fact, this is a great entertainment idea if guests are bringing children along for the fun.Costumed actors: Have Santa Clause visit early this year, as the main actor at your holiday party. Make it even more fun by having your company’s CEO dress up as Santa. If your CEO is female, maybe she can disguise herself at Mrs. Clause!Carolers: Greet guests at the door with a group of delightful carolers! What a way to get the party started.Stilt walkers: Costumed stilt walkers will make a normal holiday party feel very posh. Imagine the amount of photos uploaded to Instagram that evening – what a way to bring awareness to your company or cause, depending on the goals of your holiday party.

Virtual and Competitive Games

Alpine snowboard stimulator entertainment and games at holiday party

Alpine snowboard stimulator: Let guests take a ride – literally – on the slopes of our virtual mountain. It’s exciting entertainment for large groups of friends, co-workers or parents with daredevil kids.Shuffleboard: Encourage the competitive spirit by hosting rounds of shuffleboard. It’s also a great way for guests to take a break from mingling and indulging in holiday foods at the annual party.We believe in putting that special touch on your Boston holiday party. Big and small, these ideas will leave a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. So, give us a call to brainstorm ways that will give your guests the gift of entertainment this season.

Which Type of Holiday Party Should You Host?

It will soon be that time of year where your calendar explodes with holiday activities. As the list of family, friends and work parties grows, we just accept that our next free weekend won’t be until January 2016!In fact, you’ve probably already started thinking about what kind of holiday party you’re going to host this year, whether you’re in charge of hosting your company’s holiday party and/or your family and friends holiday gathering.Decide which type of holiday party to host by considering the pros and cons of each type. There is something for everyone out there!

Formal Dinner Party: The black tie, little black dress event

Pros:

You can dress up! Maybe it’s a chance to break out of the big sweater, yoga pants routine. Or maybe getting dressed up gives you a reason to invite that special someone to join you for a night out.
The food and drinks are usually amazing. If someone is throwing a formal party, they typically want to treat their guests to an exquisite evening. You can be that person (or company!) that indulges in fabulous tastes and shares a delectable meal in style!

Cons:

If this formal evening includes a plated meal, you may be seating guests next to someone they don’t know. Social butterflies may consider this a “pro” but introverts might be intimidated.
If this is a company party, the cost of a formal event may override the company’s budget for series of employee appreciation events throughout the year. Or, it might set the bar pretty high for the rest of the events your company might host (which isn’t necessarily a bad thing!).

Informal Potluck: Everyone brings a dish to share

Pros:

There are so many food choices at a potluck that you are bound to find something (or many things!) you love.
Everyone contributing to the meal makes the host’s life much easier.
Personalized dishes can show a little of everyone’s personality, or at least show if they have any real talent in the kitchen.

Cons:

You have to plan extra time before the event to make your dish.
You’re asking your guests to help host, in essence. This isn’t always a bad thing, but as the host, you should be aware that you should have some extra responsibilities.
Too many choices of delicious food can often make us eat until we are beyond full. We recommend sipping on some sparkling water after eating your fair portion. That will give you something to do while socializing and preventing you from feeling too guilty about trying every single thing!

Cocktail Hour: Socialize, drink and graze, but not for too long

Pros:

Typically an “easier” holiday event to plan, your biggest conundrums include choosing between yummy cocktails for your cocktail menu and deciding on stationary or passed hors d’oeuvres.
Cocktail hours usually take place after work hours, so attendance is usually great. Plus, as the host, you can still get to bed at a decent hour.
The layout of a cocktail hour encourages guests to walk around and talk with old friends as well as make new ones. The cocktails may help you spark up conversations with new people, and making new connections is never a bad thing!

Cons:

Cocktail hours never seem to last long enough. Just as you are getting into the festivities, people start to leave. Bah, humbug.

Themed Holiday Parties: Unleash guests' creative side

Pros:

Challenge your creative side (and those of your holiday party guests!) to dress as instructed, whether it is with an ugly sweater or as a character in the selected party theme.
All the guests can guarantee the activities will cause lots of laughing – snag an espresso before it begins because it’s bound to be a wild evening!

Cons:

Lots of planning goes into these events. Don’t bite off more than you can chew – or, better yet, partner with a professional company (caterers included!) that can really help walk you through this process. We’re creative people by nature, after all and love, love, love these kind of intricate party ideas.
Often these kinds of parties can be more inclusive, meaning between entertainment, costumes, décor, prizes, etc., things can add up. While there are ways to be budget-conscious, consider how “big” you want to go with this party idea with the costs of decorations, outfits, themed foods, catering and more.

Charity Event: ‘Tis the season for giving

Pros:

Giving to a charitable cause will put you in the holiday spirit. You’ll leave this party knowing you made an impact, and so will your guests.
Often these become a bit of a “Who’s Who” event. This may be a great opportunity to network, as well as get those VIPs, to finally attend your holiday party over someone else’s on that same night.

Cons:

On the flipside, charity events in the form of a holiday party are often networking events. If that isn’t your goal, perhaps you can simply add a charitable element to your other holiday party idea.

This holiday season, we are all blessed to enjoy time with family, friends and co-workers. We hope this will help you decide how to make the most out of your holiday party this year.

The Puzzle of Planning a Holiday Party

It’s never too late to start thinking about the holiday season. Those cherished moments with family and friends are priceless and always seem to end too quickly!What activities do you have planned for this year? Are you tasked with planning the annual company holiday party? Has your family passed you the baton to host Thanksgiving dinner or the annual Christmas party?If so, we are here to help you make that planning process as easy as possible at work and at home because being the host doesn’t mean you have to miss all the fun!

Don’t Procrastinate

It’s normal to delay planning your big bash. Don’t fall into that trap. Last minute planning adds unnecessary stress and expense that could potentially ruin the joy of treating your guests to a wonderful evening. Here are some tasks to do 3-4 months before your holiday party:

Build a Budget

Consider the cost (if any) of the venue, the quality and quantity of food and cocktails, special entertainment and holiday decorations. Creating line items is easy and creates a step-by-step approach to budgeting all the necessary pieces of the party puzzle.

Make a Guest List

Based on the budget you created, how many people could you invite? First, write down all the must-have guests – immediate family and close friends — and then include the other guests whom you would like to invite — new friends, friends with kids, co-workers and extended family — if the budget still allows. Same plan goes for a corporate holiday party. Invite key players in your department and then allow them to bring a “plus one” if the budget can account for those additional people. Do the work to create a Google doc or Excel spreadsheet with everyone’s current mailing and email addresses because that will make the next step much easier.

Send Savvy Invitations

Take advantage of what the tech world has to offer and send your invitations through Punchbowl, Evite or Paperless Post. It’s easier, more efficient and often cheaper than the traditional snail mail. And for those office parties, it’s more festive than any memo or Outlook invite. The sooner your guests know about your party, the greater the chance they will pencil your big night into their calendar.

Book a Venue

Considering your budget, take the time to search for the best venue. You know what they say, “Location, location, location.” Pick a spot that has plenty of room for some guests to sit down to eat while others walk around to mingle. A gorgeous holiday party can take place at a private residence, in a portion of a restaurant or even a cozy part of a corporate office (if it’s a party for your co-workers). During your search, try to envision the space as a cheery, warm gathering place, or whatever mood you hope to inspire at your holiday party.

Consider Catering

holiday catering zilli hospitality group

If you aren’t a cook, and you don’t want to ask each of your guests to bring a dish, consider hiring a catering company. Boston catering companies are the busiest during the holiday season — so the earlier you talk to one, the better! Now that you have planned a budget, know approximately how many people you’ll be feeding and even decided on a venue, don’t delay in calling the company that can best suit your needs. A trendy option is serving a family-style meal, as it encourages guests to mingle amongst each other as they kindly pass food selections to those sitting next to them at the table. Also, remember to mention any special dietary needs when planning with your catering company. Guests will forever remember that delicious, traditional holiday meal they enjoyed together with loved ones or new acquaintances.

Dazzle Guests with Details and Décor

Now that the big part of the planning is complete, have some fun with the final pieces of the project. Here are some things to consider during the month leading into your holiday party:

Accessorize With Light

Decorations for the holidays fill up every store as early as November, just begging you to buy them. But we encourage you to keep it simple. If you can buy candles in bulk, decorate them with pieces of holly or add festive fruit, like cranberry or dried orange slices, to large votives. Having warm light on the tables will set a relaxing mood for all of your guests.

Pump Up the Jam

No party is complete without music. If your budget does not include a live band or a disk jockey, there’s no reason to worry. Use your speakers or borrow a friend’s stereo system to connect to your source of live stream music. Internet music sites like Spotify let you customize a playlist while services, like 8tracks and Pandora, let you pick a genre from which it plays music you will most likely enjoy. Mellow music is nice for the hours around cocktails and dinner, but maybe your guests are the type who would appreciate some upbeat tunes towards the end of the evening. Take the chance and see who is in the mood to break it down!

Hire Entertainment

If you are looking for additional ways to entertain your guests, set aside some time for group activities. December holiday parties at a private residence are the perfect place to do a Chinese gift exchange – a relatively free and fun game. You could even ask your guests to bring prank gifts for additional laughs. Corporate party activities could include a photo booth, an interactive dessert table or a company mascot to entertain guests. BG is known for its creative party ideas as long as you are willing to try it out!

Shop for Your Party Outfit

As the host, you’ll be busy visiting with everyone at the party. Be sure to treat yourself to an outfit that shows everyone that even hosts can have a great time. Find a glamorous dress or a pair of heels to make you feel fabulous! If you are a male host, visit that favorite store of yours to buy the trendy button-down you’ve been ogling online.

Check in with Your Party Partners

To alleviate last-minute stress, call your catering company, venue manager, or any important guests to ensure everyone is on task for the party. Answer last minute questions or help them with any projects they are trying to finish in time. Keeping open communication with everyone helping you with your party will only lead to a delightful event for all.We hope our brief guideline to planning the perfect holiday party will encourage you to give it a try this year. Whether you are a first-time host or a seasoned veteran, planning well ahead of time and being a little creative with the smaller details will ensure a successful holiday party. And don’t forget to have fun with the process!

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