Cvent

Organic food is no longer a term used to imply niche subcultures. In fact, in 2007 the Organic Trade Association reported that organic food sales increased by 22.1 percent over the last year, reaching $16.9 billion in sales.

As the demand from consumers grows, so it does in the meetings industry, where the push toward green practices is growing. Have you considered organic catering for your event? Many planners have, but are quick to dismiss the idea under the assumption that it will simply be too costly.

It's true that organic catering can be more expensive, but it doesn't necessarily need to be. Start by finding an organic caterer in your area. By finding a local talent that’s well-versed in organic, you can be certain they will be experienced in finding the right price for your event. If you plan far enough in advance, your caterer may even be able to coordinate type and amount of food necessary with their supplier early, which means a better deal.

Ask your caterer for a comparison of organic vs. traditional fare. Though the food itself may be more costly, you may discover that the organic philosophy of cutting back will save money in the end when compared to an overloaded buffet.

Also, push for in-season ingredients. Many organic caterers are knowledgeable about what foods are most abundant during your event's time frame. In-season, organic foods are fresher and require less transportation and storage cost, a savings passed on to you.

One thing to keep in mind through the whole organic experience: know what “organic” means. As catering services make a switch toward offering more eco-friendly options, some menu plans will be more buzzworthy than others. Study up on the differences between organic, sustainable, locally-grown, fair trade, and Community Supported Agriculture (CSA), and be sure to communicate your expectations to the catering service early on.