Hi, my name is Kate, and as I have been married to a chef for over fifteen years, I have learned a lot about how to create ambiance and style in a restaurant. I would love to start our own restaurant, but it's just not possible right now as we are super focused on our two kids under the age of two. Maybe, when they get older, we'll be able to open one. Anyway, I love exploring that world and decided to create a blog related to food service and food service ideas. In particular, I am going to focus on making food that tastes like a holiday, engaging your clients and relaxing them. I hope you enjoy these posts and that they inspire you to explore new culinary avenues.
Event planning can be a complex and stressful process, especially with modern dietary requirements more varied and detailed than ever. If you're organising a food event for seniors or people living with disabilities, check out these helpful tips to help simplify your event organisation today.
Know the dietary needs of your guests
Many seniors have medical conditions that restrict what they are able to consume. When planning a food event for seniors, it is vital that you have detailed information regarding any and all specific dietary requirements your guests have. Contact your guests directly or consult with their carers well before the event, for a full list of foods that cannot be included on your event menu.
As seniors often suffer from conditions such as heart disease and diabetes, limiting the sodium and sugar in the event's menu is highly suggested. It's also important to note any allergies, such as seafood or nuts, as well as intolerances, such as gluten. If your guests do not have strict dietary requirements, your menu possibilities are a little more flexible, however it is still advisable to provide a variety of fresh, nutrient-dense foods to promote your guests' health and wellbeing.
Ensure convenience and ease of food delivery
While you may be tempted to offer your guests a buffet-style meal, this can be unsuitable for a group of seniors with physical ailments and disabilities. Instead, simple table service will help your guests feel comfortable and respected. Plated meals delivered in an alternate drop system, or small platters to share amongst a table are excellent options if you want to offer your guests the variety of a buffet. Hire enough wait staff to avoid delays in service, and provide them with guidance prior to the event on how to offer extra support and assistance for guests with impairments.
Work with your catering experts
Your catering company is experienced in working with groups of senior or disabled guests, so work closely when planning the menu and food-related aspects of your event. All food allergies and dietary requirements must be communicated with the caterer several weeks prior to the event, to ensure the menu remains as healthy, safe and suitable as possible for your guests. Small changes can easily be made to make a set menu suitable for all, such as changing the flour used in baked goods or making fresh pesto without nuts. When developing your event menu to suit your guests, collaborate with your catering experts to fine-tune meal options to make them delicious and suitable to your guests' needs.
Contact your local catering company {like Essentially Gourmet} for expert advice and assistance in planning an event for seniors and people living with disabilities.
Share12 February 2016
