Harborside Catering composite photos of Harborside Catering prepared food

Great planning brings a lot to the table.

CREATING AND HOSTING AN EVENT THAT WILL BE TRULY UNIQUE for you and your guests requires both good planning and a great menu. Our Harborside Catering's Special Events Director can help you with all of the following:

Deciding Which Type of Event
The first step in planning an event is to decide if the occasion will be formal or casual; this really dictates the planning timeline and the number of people involved in the process. For example, an informal event such as a family reunion could take place in your backyard, eliminating the need to book a venue months in advance. On the other hand, if you’re planning an elegant bridal shower for 100 guests you may need to reserve a venue that can accommodate larger groups, such as Harborside Catering’s Phoenix Room.

  • Some Planning Tips for a Great Event.
  • Pick a date for your event. Remember to check the date with those guests whose attendance is most important.
  • Create a master guest list to give you a general idea of how many people you need to accommodate.
  • Examine your budget. Determine what elements are most important to you.
  • Find a location that suits your needs and fits within your budget
  • Send invitations to guests approximately one month prior to the party. Guests should RSVP regrets only, giving the host plenty of time to plan accordingly.
  • Most importantly, plan your menu. The right menu will make your party a success

Selecting the Menu
The right menu is the foundation of any great party or event, and Harborside Catering offers the professional assistance needed to select a menu that’s perfectly suited to your occasion. Your menu should feature a wide range of selections that offer something for every taste. You’ll also need to decide if the meal should be served to seated guests or buffet style.

Serving Libations
When it comes to serving libations, you should plan on each guest consuming an average of three drinks if your event is slated to last about five hours. You can also plan to serve a special beverage or cocktail that reflects a theme or event tone. For example, a backyard barbecue could feature a locally brewed beer; a poolside picnic could feature a fruity daiquiri drink.

Planning a Budget
Budget considerations are an important part of any event. If you’re planning a party that will be held in your home, allocate 75 percent of the total budget for food and beverage. If the party is taking place at a rented location, food and beverage will comprise about 45 percent of the overall budget.

At Harborside Catering we specialize in helping you plan every detail of your special event, from when and where to food and fun.

To help you plan an unforgettable party, please contact us.
Special Events Coordinator
Harborside Catering and The Phoenix Room
978-463-3301
E-Mail: info@harborsidecatering.com

A wedding reception by Harborside Catering at the Phoenix Room A reception table setting by Harborside Catering

Photographed at the Phoenix Room
by Glenn Livermore Photography

Harborside Catering Harborside Catering - Planning Your Catered Event