Cvent

With event budgets tightening, how do you lower food costs and still satisfy the palates of your guests? Here are a few quick tips:

• Buy fruits and vegetables in season. Out-of-season foods need to be shipped from greater distances, which results in higher costs overall. Even in the winter, many local farmers continue to grow some fruits and vegetables in greenhouses.

• Sit down. Believe it or not, sit-down dinners are often less expensive than buffets. Plus, a relaxing, seated dinner adds a touch of elegance to any event. Entree choices will be more limited, but by working with the chef you can create an economical menu that still includes a variety of meal options.
   
• Stay sweet. Cut back on your entree selections, then wow your guests with dessert. Guests will remember a delectable treat at the end of the meal much more than a salad, or even the main course. Desserts don't have to be big. Smaller portions give attendees a chance to taste more than one dessert offering.