Planning a large event can be super exciting but also a little nerve-wracking. You’ve got the venue sorted, the guest list in mind, and you’ve started imagining the decorations. But let’s be real, the food is what people will remember most. Whether it’s a wedding, family reunion, or corporate event, the right catering can elevate your gathering—or turn it into a disaster.
So, how do you ensure your catering is spot-on? Here are some simple dos and don’ts to help make your event a success. And, spoiler alert: we’ll share why Usmania Dallas should be your top choice for large event catering in the final thoughts!
The Dos
1. Do Know Your Guest List (Or at Least Try To!)
Getting the guest list right can be one of the trickiest parts of planning an event. You don’t want to run out of food, but you also don’t want to have so many leftovers that you could feed a small village. Try to pin down an accurate headcount—but always plan for a few extra. There’s always that one relative who brings an unexpected plus-one, and at Desi events, sometimes a whole extended family shows up unannounced.
A safe bet is to overestimate by 5-10%. Better to have too much than too little, right?
2. Do Offer a Variety of Dishes
When you’re hosting a large crowd, there’s bound to be a mix of different tastes and dietary needs. While some might crave spicy food, others prefer mild flavors. Some guests are all about meat, while others may be vegetarian. The trick is to offer a balanced spread—plenty of options for both vegetarians and meat lovers. And don’t forget about dietary restrictions like gluten-free or vegan needs.
Thankfully, South Asian cuisine has a lot of variety. You can serve up veggie biryanis, juicy chicken kebabs, and everything in between. It’s all about keeping everyone happy!
3. Do Think About the Flow of the Event
Consider how food fits into the overall vibe of your event. Are you planning a sit-down dinner, or will people be mingling and grabbing food as they go?
Setting up food stations can help cut down on lines and keep the energy flowing so guests can spend more time mingling than waiting for their meal.
4. Do Accommodate Dietary Restrictions
These days, it’s common for people to have dietary restrictions—whether it’s a gluten allergy, a nut intolerance, or a need for dairy-free options. Make sure you ask your guests about any specific needs in advance. You don’t want anyone to leave feeling like they couldn’t enjoy the meal because there wasn’t something they could eat.
A few allergy-friendly or specialized dishes can go a long way to making everyone feel included.
5. Do Get the Portions Right
One of the biggest challenges with catering is figuring out how much food to order. You want to make sure there’s enough for everyone, but you don’t want to go overboard. A great way to manage this is to offer a variety of dishes but in smaller portions—this gives your guests plenty of choices without overloading them (or your budget).
An experienced caterer can help you strike that perfect balance between quantity and variety so no one leaves hungry—or too full.
Five Reasons Usmania Dallas is your go to for Authentic South Asian Catering
The Don’ts
1. Don’t Forget the Appetizers
Hungry guests waiting for the main course is never a good look. That’s why appetizers are key! They give people something to snack on while they mingle and get ready for the meal ahead.
Appetizers like crispy samosas, pakoras, or chicken skewers are always a hit and set the stage for an amazing meal.
2. Don’t Skimp on Presentation
Delicious food is important, but how it looks matters, too! The presentation of the food can make a big impact. Think about how the dishes will be displayed—whether it’s a buffet or plated meal, food should look as good as it tastes.
A well-presented spread not only wows your guests but also adds a touch of elegance to your event.
3. Don’t Overlook Timing
Timing is everything when it comes to food service. You want the hot dishes served hot and the cold ones to stay cool. Plus, you need to plan the timing of the meal around the event’s schedule. The last thing you want is to be serving food right in the middle of a big speech or special moment.
Having a clear plan for when the food will be served ensures everything goes off without a hitch.
4. Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Help
Planning an event can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to catering. Don’t be afraid to ask your caterer for advice—they’re the experts, after all! Whether you’re unsure about portion sizes, menu options, or how to serve the food, a good caterer will guide you through the whole process.
Let your caterer help you make informed decisions, so you can relax and enjoy the event yourself.
5. Don’t Forget to Label the Dishes
If you’re serving a wide variety of dishes, especially for a large crowd, labeling the food is a great idea. Not everyone is familiar with every dish, and a little description can go a long way. Plus, it helps guests with dietary restrictions quickly identify what’s safe for them to eat.
Clear labels also add a personal touch and help guests feel more confident about what they’re choosing.
Usmania Restaurant Dallas Event Catering
Final Thoughts
Catering for a large gathering doesn’t have to be overwhelming! By keeping these simple dos and don’ts in mind, you can make sure your event goes smoothly and your guests leave happy and full. Whether it’s a wedding, a family reunion, or a corporate event, great food is what will bring everyone together and create lasting memories.
And if you’re looking for catering in Dallas that checks all the boxes, Usmania Dallas has you covered. Our mouth-watering South Asian cuisine, attention to detail, and exceptional service will make your event unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a large-scale celebration, we’re here to take the stress out of catering and deliver a meal your guests will rave about.
Give Usmania Dallas a call to book your next event, and let us help you create a memorable dining experience that everyone will be talking about!
