Banquet Guidelines

Planning a winning and memorable banquet requires careful consideration of several factors. Choosing the best venue, seating arrangement and menu based on the guest list is vital to the event's success.

Venue Choices

• Banquet facilities vary in size and atmosphere. Some are lavishly furnished to provide elegant surroundings for weddings or wedding receptions, while others are more casually outfitted and offer a relaxing atmosphere for less formal occasions. Consider the theme of the event and the tastes of the guests when choosing a banquet facility.

Seating Options

• If socialization among guests is the goal, round tables that seat four to eight people are recommended. Affairs that showcase speakers and presentations benefit from table and seating arrangements that face all the guests forward to focus on the main or head table. Occasions that include music and dancing frequently have long tables arranged around the perimeter of the room to provide an open area in the center to accommodate dancers.

Menu Selections

• Choose food based on the guests' ages, ethnic backgrounds and social statuses. Corporate-type guests generally prefer more traditional foods served in a formal manner, while younger crowds may be more comfortable with trendy finger foods that allow them to eat while mingling.