If you're planning your own wedding reception, a fundraising event for your business, or anniversary celebration for your parents, you'll have a myriad of decisions to make , including the venue, theme music, décor and even food. The menu you choose for your event might get confusing with all the options that are available and all the aspects you must consider. Here are some suggestions to help you have a good start in the planning process.

1. Set the budget.

A professional catering service offers a wide range of menu options that are suitable for various budgets. The caterer you choose should be able to offer some menu ideas that maximize the usage of your budget. Certain menu items are more expensive due to ingredients and the amount of time it takes to cook. It will save you and your caterer lots of time when you have a clear understanding of how much you're willing to pay for meals.

2. Know your audience.

It's pretty evident that the menu and the amount of food that you serve at your teenage son's birthday celebration would differ from the meals you provide to your book club. In case you aren't familiar with your target audience sufficiently and you're not sure what they like, variety is key. Make sure you have a few choices to pick from, and make sure to include the least amount of vegetarian dish. If you're sure that children will be present you should include some kid-friendly dishes in the food menu. Be sure to inquire about any special dietary requirements as well as allergies. Remember that some foods, like shellfish and nuts, may take your guests directly to ER.

3. Check that the menu is in line with the theme of the event.

Some people ask if a buffet dinner is uninspiring for a wedding reception. It's not an issue of being tacky, or even not. It's all about the the overall theme and style of your event. If you are planning a formal and high-end wedding reception, a buffet style meal might be unnatural. On the other hand, corporate catering menu if you have a trendy and chic celebration at the local art gallery or museum, a "living room" style reception is a good idea. For a traditional Greek wedding or Russian wedding the family-style dinner usually works the best. If you are planning a wedding with an underlying theme, take it into a aspect when you are planning a menu. Make sure your items go well together. You don't wish to combine fresh oysters and cheeseburgers.

4. Make sure you order the correct quantity of food.

Your guests don't want to be starving, nor do you want to overload with the amount of food served and leave over leftovers. Whenever possible, make the guests RSVP to your invitation. This will allow you to remain within your budget and plan your menu accordingly and make sure you have the proper amount of food. Consider the timing of your celebration, its length, and the purpose. If you are hosting your reception from 7 to 9 pm, guests will expect dinner. If you do not provide one, you must manage the expectations of your guests accordingly. Specify in your invitation what kind of food will serve (e.g. champagne reception with wine, a wine tasting, etc.)

5. Don't go by the personal tastes of yours.

We all make this error. We believe that what we enjoy, others might also like. Do not let your personal tastes influence your designing the menus for your event. You shouldn't serve the only seafood-based menu unless you're sure that everyone at your party is as enthralled by fish as much as. If you happen be vegan and think pork chops disgusting, there is a good chance that your guests will disagree with you and might prefer good old-fashioned steak over Tofu Cacciatore.

And a bonus tip - Hire a reputable catering service! Research before you sign the contract. Read reviews, ask around and set up an appointment. The time you put into finding the perfect caterer will pay off. Take the stress from your event planningby hiring an experienced professional.