But if you’ve drawn the short straw and are in charge of planning a holiday event, relax! This article is your handy guide to successful holiday catering.

From understanding your guest count to selecting a menu that caters to all preferences, you’ll find the advice you need right here. So, grab a cup of cocoa, settle in, and let’s make your holiday gathering one to remember. 

Helpful Holiday Catering Tips

Planning a memorable holiday event starts with finding the right caterer!

While your event’s focus might be on holiday festivities and socializing, food tends to steal the show and create lasting impressions on your guests’ tastebuds.

Hiring a reliable caterer guarantees seamless event planning and that guest preferences are met.

Think of it this way: an unforgettable culinary palette complements the joyous atmosphere and can even become a cherished holiday tradition. 

Hand over your holiday catering needs to Cafesano: Italian & Mediterranean Bistro and delight your guests with exquisite flavors from the Mediterranean.

1. Know What You Want—and Need

Before diving into holiday catering and event planning, nailing down event details is crucial. Begin by defining your budget. How much are you willing to spend on catering for your holiday event? This is an essential factor to consider.

Next, estimate your guest count; this ensures you order just the right amount of food.

Deciding on the event style is equally important—will it be a formal sit-down dinner or a casual gathering with hors d’oeuvres and small bites? These choices shape the ambiance and menu of your event.

Having a clear understanding of these aspects helps you choose the right catering for your holiday event and ensures a delightful experience for your guests.

2. Consider Food Preferences

When planning a holiday event, it is crucial to recognize the diverse food preferences of your guests. Some may follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, while others may have intolerances to gluten or dairy. 

Did you know that 1 in 3 Americans try to avoid gluten and 65% of the population are lactose intolerant—this is super important when planning an event with food!

Catering to specific dietary needs ensures every guest has a delightful experience. Consider gathering this information through RSVPs or direct surveys. 

If you’re hosting a family party, consider if there will be young children and picky eaters attending as well. You’ll want to have some kid-friendly food options available for the little ones too. 

Your chosen caterer should offer a menu that accommodates all these dietary requirements. By doing so, you demonstrate thoughtfulness and inclusivity, which enhances the event’s atmosphere.

Take a look at Cafesano’s gluten-free catering menu to get started planning your inclusive event menu. 

3. Interview Potential Caterers

While it can be difficult to even find a good caterer in Northern Virginia before settling on one, it’s helpful to interview a few contenders. This ensures you find a provider who is not only flexible but also aligns with your requirements and budget.

Engage in a conversation to understand their services better. Assess whether they can adapt to any special requests and if they offer the kind of service that suits the event size and type you’re organizing.

This process will also help gauge your comfort level and trust in the team. After all, you want someone reliable who can make your holiday event memorable for all the right reasons! 

4. Taste Test Your Menu

Tasting your menu before the event is a vital step in ensuring your guests enjoy each dish.

At Cafesano, you can visit the restaurant to savor their carefully crafted Mediterranean dishes. As you immerse yourself in the cozy atmosphere, you’ll experience firsthand the vibrant flavors that can grace your holiday table.

This tasting session allows you to make informed choices and refine your menu selections. Plus, it offers an early taste of the event’s culinary delights, ensuring the menu is tailored to your preferences and meets the expectations of your guests. 

5. Set a Clear Timeline for the Event

Creating a clear timeline is essential for seamless holiday event catering. Start by determining when the caterers should arrive. Consider the setup time they’ll need to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Confirm if you require post-event clean-up services from them. Clearly communicating these details prevents misunderstandings and ensures your event runs like clockwork.

Discuss these specifics early in the planning stage to avoid last-minute surprises. This attention to detail not only keeps you stress-free but also allows your guests to enjoy a flawless holiday gathering.

Remember, a well-organized event results in happy attendees and satisfied hosts!

6. Fully Understand the Contract Agreement

Understanding your caterer’s contract is crucial to ensure a seamless event.

Identify a clear point of contact for any questions or needs. A contingency plan is vital, especially considering weather changes or unexpected events, to avoid disruptions. Pay attention to the payment terms; knowing when and how much to pay prevents last-minute financial stress.

The contract should spell out all of these details and more, eliminating any surprises that could compromise your event’s success. Having everything clearly laid out ensures that both you and the caterer are on the same page, allowing you to focus on enjoying the festivities without worry.

Choose Cafesano Catering for Your Holiday Event 

Make your holiday event in Northern Virginia memorable with Cafesano’s exceptional catering services. Known for our heart-healthy Mediterranean cuisine, Cafesano provides a delightful array of dishes that cater to every food preference, ensuring there’s something delectable for everyone.

Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a large corporate event, our professional team makes organizing your event smooth and stress-free. Experience the ease of working with a catering service that not only meets your dietary needs but also impresses your guests with delicious, wholesome dishes.

Choose Cafesano: Italian & Mediterranean Bistro for a holiday celebration that will be remembered by all! 
Browse our catering menu to start planning your holiday event in Northern Virginia today! 

The post Plan the Perfect Holiday Event: 6 Holiday Catering Tips from Cafesano appeared first on Cafesano.

Between back-to-back gatherings, cookie trays in every breakroom, and that second (okay, third) helping of side dishes, it’s easy to lose track of what “healthy” even looks like this time of year.

Here’s the good news: enjoying the holidays and staying on track with your goals can go hand-in-hand. You don’t have to struggle to get through every dinner or say no to every sweet treat. 

With a few mindful tweaks, you can navigate the season feeling satisfied and energized, while still enjoying delicious food. 

Plus, when you choose Cafesano: Italian & Mediterranean Bistro to fill your holiday table, it’s easier than ever! No guilt. No shame. Just delicious, heart-healthy food as you enjoy the holidays.

How to Eat Healthier During the Holidays in Northern VA

We know it can be tempting to grab that cookie or treat lying out on the table as you walk by. Or taking a second helping of your favorite side dish at family dinner. 

While the holidays can pose challenges to maintaining a healthy diet, there are practical ways to stay on track and avoid overindulging. 

1. Plan Your Plate Before the Party Starts

Walking into a holiday meal without a game plan is like going grocery shopping hungry. You’re tempting fate! 

Take a minute before the buffet line to think through what you really want on your plate. Start with veggies, add a lean protein, then leave space for your favorite sides or treats. 

When you plan ahead, you’re less likely to overdo it or feel regret later. And remember, it’s not about perfection. It’s about balance. Choosing indulgences with intention lets you enjoy your meal and feel good afterward.

2. Don’t Skip Meals to “Save” Calories

It might sound like a good idea to skip breakfast or lunch before a big holiday dinner. But in reality, it often backfires. 

When you show up starving, it’s much more difficult to make mindful choices and way easier to go crazy at the appetizer table. Instead, eat balanced meals throughout the day with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. 

You’ll arrive calm, not ravenous, and better able to enjoy your favorite foods without going overboard. Think of it this way: fueling your body early helps you stay in control later.

3. Swap Traditional Dishes for Healthier Alternatives

You don’t have to ditch your holiday favorites. Just give them a healthier makeover!

Love mashed potatoes? Try mixing in cauliflower for a lighter twist. Craving green bean casserole? Roast fresh green beans with olive oil and garlic instead. 

Small tweaks like baking instead of frying, or cutting back on sugar, can make a big difference without sacrificing flavor. Healthy doesn’t mean boring; it just means being creative. 

You’ll still get that cozy, festive vibe… just with a bit less butter and a bit more balance.

Read Next: Traditional Mediterranean Christmas Foods to Add to Your Holiday Table

4. Stay Hydrated

Sometimes that second helping you’re reaching for isn’t to satisfy your hunger. It’s actually dehydration in disguise. Between salty snacks, sweets, and celebratory drinks, your body needs more water than usual this time of year. 

Keep a glass of water nearby to sip throughout the day, especially before enjoying meals. You’ll feel more in control and less likely to graze just because your mouth feels dry. 

Want to keep it festive? Add lemon, mint, or a splash of cranberry for a holiday twist. Hydration is a simple win, and your energy, skin, and stomach will thank you.

5. Use the “One Treat” Rule to Control Sugar Intake

The holidays basically feel like they’re sponsored by sugar. And that’s okay! You don’t need to completely avoid sweets. 

Instead, try the “one treat” rule. Pick the dessert (or drink) you’re most excited about, and enjoy it fully. That means without guilt or distractions. Savor it, then move on. 

This simple mindset shift helps you stay intentional, not restrictive. Because when everything is a “yes,” nothing really feels satisfying. 

6. Eat Mindfully, Not Mindlessly

Holiday meals can blur into background noise. You have a plate in one hand, a conversation in the other, and suddenly, you’re uncomfortably full. 

Slow it down. Before you dig in, take a breath. Notice the flavors, the smells, the people around you. Chew slowly. Put your fork down between bites.

These tiny pauses create space to actually enjoy your food and notice when you’ve had enough. Mindful eating isn’t about rules. It’s about being present. And during the busiest season of the year, that presence is a gift in itself.

7. Avoid Drinking Your Calories

Eggnog, mulled wine, peppermint lattes; holiday drinks are as delicious as they are sneaky. A few festive sips can add up fast, especially when they’re packed with sugar and cream. 

That doesn’t mean you have to skip them entirely. Just be aware of what you’re sipping. Maybe enjoy one specialty drink, then switch to sparkling water or herbal tea. Or alternate between cocktails and mocktails to keep things light. 

The goal isn’t to say no to everything. It’s to say yes to what you’ll actually enjoy and not just what’s in your hand at that moment.

8. Get Moving

No, you don’t need to hit the gym between dinner and dessert. But a little movement can go a long way. 

A short walk after a big meal, a dance party in the kitchen, a snowball fight with the kids—it all counts. Don’t look at staying active as a way to burn off the calories you ate. It’s about feeling energized, less sluggish, and more connected to your body.

Plus, movement can boost your mood, aid digestion, and help you reset, all without feeling like a chore.

9. Set Realistic Expectations, Not Food Rules

The holidays aren’t the time for harsh rules or “perfect eating.” That mindset usually just leads to stress, not success.

Instead, set gentle, realistic expectations. Maybe it’s aiming to include a veggie at each meal, or being mindful of how you feel after eating. Give yourself permission to enjoy the season without labeling foods as “good” or “bad.”

Remember, you’re not “off track” because you had a slice of pie. You’re living your life! 

10. Reset Gently After the Holidays

There’s no need for a crash diet or “detox” come January 1st. Your body doesn’t need punishment. It needs care. 

After the holidays, ease back into your usual routine with simple, nourishing meals, plenty of water, movement you enjoy, and maybe an extra hour of sleep. 

Think of it as a reset, not a restart. The holidays are just one chapter, and you get to decide how the next one begins. 

Enjoy the Northern Virginia Holidays Without Regret

The holidays are meant to be joyful, not stressful, not restrictive, and definitely not filled with guilt over what’s on your plate. With a little mindfulness, a few smart tips, and some grace for yourself, you can savor the season and feel great doing it.

And if you’re planning a holiday gathering? Let Cafesano help you keep things delicious and heart-healthy. We cater holiday parties with fresh, Mediterranean-inspired dishes that are full of flavor and good-for-you ingredients. So, you can treat your guests (and yourself) to food you’ll feel good about.

Here’s to a happy, healthy holiday season—one bite at a time. 

Check out our catering menu and plan your holiday party today!

The post 10 Tips to Eat Healthier During the NoVA Holidays You’ll Actually Enjoy appeared first on Cafesano.

As the weather in Virginia gets crisp and the rush for the best holiday gift deals begin, we find ourselves whispering about the annual office holiday party once again.

Unfortunately, those put in charge of planning the perfect office holiday party usually feel the task is challenging and mundane. There are dates to set, invitations to send out, decorations to decide on, venues to choose from, and don’t forget the catering. Plus, who really enjoys these things anyways?

Luckily, all of this planning doesn’t have to be dull and stressful. It can be fun and exciting and the end result can make your co-workers say “Wow! I can’t wait for next year’s party!”

Let’s take a look at some of the hottest holiday catering trends 2018 has to offer so you can get motivated about planning your company’s best holiday party ever.

New Catering Trends to Try This Year

Unique Themes

There seems to be a push for all things unique when it comes to holiday party themes this year. In fact, almost all events this year have centered on the mainstream idea of having a unique theme.

Of course, traditional holiday motifs are always welcome, and the ever-favorite ugly sweater parties are never going to end.

But why not try something a little different this year?

Here are two great ideas for your corporate party that are sure to get everyone into the holiday spirit:

• Winter Wonderland – Rather than follow traditional holiday décor, opt for a more neutral, wintry theme. Make it traditional or whimsical, or even comical. Use colors such as silver, white, and even specks of gold. Add snow, woodland, and sparkle elements to everything. Glassware can be crystal, linens can be pure white, and the lighting can have hints of blue to add to the classical wintry look.

Want to spice things up even more?

Add an element of fire to your ice by incorporating dark, fiery reds to your winter wonderland. The ideas are endless and will make for a theme your guests will never forget.

• Colorful Carnival – Who said holiday parties had to be, well, wintry? If you are really looking to do something different this year try tapping into your employees’ inner child by putting on an all-out winter carnival.

What’s more, this theme can have its own style and feel; think vintage fun fair, Coney Island, old-time carnival, and more. Play it up by adding makeup artists to transform guests, require costumes for entrance, make it colorful and bright, and don’t forget the staple behind every good carnival: games!

Whether you are looking for a more traditional feel for your office party, or want to step out of the box and do something unexpected, make sure you have something planned to set the tone of your party in a positive light from the start.

Party Decor

Falling in line with your holiday party theme is the décor used to make it special. Take a look at some of this year’s coolest ideas to add to your party planning agenda:

• Modern – Minimalist decorations with singular bold accent colors amidst black and white backgrounds and strong geometric shapes.

• Rustic – Earthy, organic, and natural details such as pinecones, mistletoe and trees adorned with woodland creatures. Materials like burlap, sisal, or twigs incorporate into all of the décor.

• Accessories – Every party needs the small details to pull the entire theme together.

• Centerpieces – They are easy to personalize and make your company’s party unique. Use glass vases and add strands of lights, pine sprigs, baubles, or colorful candles inside.

• Mason jars – One of the hottest trends for some time now, Mason jars are versatile and can be used as centerpieces, tableware, decorations, or even containers.

• Plating trends – Change up the sizes and colors of your tableware to give your party décor more variety.

• Ditch traditional banquet tables and chairs – Go for comfort and style. Try rocking chairs, sofas, porch swings, or mod ball chairs to steer clear of a foldup metal banquet chair.

Catering is All About the Food

While there are many things that go into catering a successful holiday party, it is the abundance of delicious food that really makes the party a hit. There are many catering trends that emerged in 2018 that every party planner should be aware of. Here is what your guests will be expecting at their holiday party this year:

Small Bites

2018 is the year of small portions, lots of variety, and easy to eat finger foods. The traditional sit down dinner party has been losing steam for a while now as guests demand bite-sized everything.

Cafesano Catering offers a large variety of finger food platters perfect for your holiday office party. In line with the holiday catering trends of 2018, Cafesano’s catering menu will provide your guests with the kind of party fare they’re looking for. Try our large selection of warm Panini sandwiches and flavorful wraps, our easy to eat homemade Grape Leaves, or even some of our grilled skewers. Catering in Dulles never tasted so good.

Unique Cuisine

Another trend hitting holiday parties hard this year is the idea that guests want to enjoy cuisine from a culturally diverse menu. Ethnic flavors are favored among those attending parties as people call for exotic flavors and never before tried foods.

Choosing Cafesano Catering to cater your holiday party this year will surely be a hit among those looking to expand their palates. Cafesano’s menu selections are not too rich and not too spicy, but full of freshness and bold flavor profiles from Italy and the Mediterranean.

Healthy Food Choices

Healthy eating is a trend that is here to stay. As more people become aware of how their eating habits affect their overall health, people want healthy choices to be available, even when they’re attending a holiday party.  Here are three of the most popular healthy catering trends all caterers wishing to be successful should apply to their menu options:

1. Vegetarian Options

50% of all Americans eat at least one meatless meal per week. That is why savvy caterers will opt to include vegetarian alternatives to their catering menus. More people are making the shift to vegetarian diets and not simply for their main course either.

The demand for lighter, healthier, more vegetable filled meals will continue to rise into the next year, so adding a vegetarian selection to your office party menu will definitely go over well with everyone in attendance.

Cafesano prides itself on serving fresh and healthy dishes. In fact, the Mediterranean diet is considered by many to be the healthiest in the world. This emphasis on healthy eating is the cornerstone of Cafesano’s food choices, as reflected on the many healthy options on the catering menu.

Try adding Cafesano’s famous falafel to your holiday party. Both vegetarian and delicious, this Mediterranean staple has all elements of the trending holiday foods: it’s bite-sized, ethnically unique, and healthy!

2. Gluten-Free Options

Much like the vegetarian trend hitting the holiday parties in 2018, the desire for gluten-free dishes is making waves as well. Although some people engage in gluten-free eating for specific medical purposes, a large number of people do it simply to be healthy. Those same people are attending your office holiday party and would like to eat foods consistent with their normal diets. Grains like quinoa and buckwheat offer lots of nutritional value and can be incorporated into many holiday meals.

Cafesano is proud to be one of the top-rated Dulles restaurants offering a gluten-free menu.

3. Hummus

It has been suggested that hummus is one of the hottest food trends this year, even out-trending salsa. High in protein and fiber, and low in fat, this chickpea based dip suits everyone. Having many flavor varieties, hummus is without a doubt one of the most popular foods you can provide your guests at the annual office holiday party.

Homemade original and spicy red pepper hummus are two of the most popular dips offered by Cafesano in Dulles.  Adding hummus to your catering order is sure to please your holiday party guests.

Catering Your Northern Virginia Office Party

After planning your office party’s date and time, theme, decorations, and venue, make this year’s office party the very best following some of the most popular holiday catering trends of 2018. Consider using the catering services of Cafesano Catering for all of your menu needs. Delivering straight to your party in Northern Virginia, Cafesano Catering ensures only the freshest, most flavorful (and healthy!) Mediterranean fare will be served to your party guests.

With convenient online ordering, or friendly Catering Coordinators standing by to help you with your order by phone, Cafesano guarantees your holiday party will be a success.

The post Biggest Holiday Catering Trends of 2018 appeared first on Cafesano.

With the holiday season in full swing, it’s a time for family gatherings and holiday office parties.

And that means stress levels can go through the roof!

But there’s no need to worry—with some careful planning and a little imagination, you can host a magnificent holiday party that you and your guests will both enjoy.

With that in mind, check out these 6 tips to hosting a stress-free holiday party.

1. Send out invitations early

Whether you’re planning to hold a holiday party at your home or at another location around Dulles, make sure to secure a date and time and send out invitations as soon as possible.

This way, you can:

• Avoid worrying about sending last-minute invitations
• Create an accurate guest list and know how many guests will be showing up
• Plan for how much food and beverage you need in order to accommodate all of your guests

Sending out invitations in a timely manner is a small task that has a big impact on how smoothly your party runs. Taking care of this ahead of time can help make sure that you’re well prepared for anything unexpected and can help make your holiday party planning a little less stressful.

2. Create a theme for your party

Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or any other special holiday, make sure your party revolves around the theme and spirit of the holiday.

Create or purchase special foods and drinks and decorate around your theme, creating a festive environment that will put your guests in a party mood.

But there’s no need to go overboard ‒ keep the decorations and other theme-related tasks simple and easy to complete.  The result will be less pressure on yourself and your guests will still appreciate the time you took to add special touches.

Keeping it simple will save you time AND money which equates to less stress and more fun for you and your guests!

Click here for more information on fun and simple holiday decorating ideas.

3. Don’t hesitate to outsource!

The most important thing you can do the day of your event is make sure you’re available to your guests.  Whether greeting them at the door or chatting with them during the party, you want to insure you have plenty of opportunity to enjoy your guests and yourself.

While some brave hosts try to prepare all of the food for their event, you may find that outsourcing that task reduces your stress significantly.

Consider having your favorite local restaurant in Dulles cater the event.  You won’t spend most of your evening running back and forth to make sure your food is prepared and cooked the way you like it.

Instead, you can set it all out before your guests arrive, making sure it’s arranged attractively and set out throughout your party area.  You may have to spend a little time warming a few items up or replenishing platters as they empty but the time spent doing this is minor compared to the time you would spend preparing all the food yourself.

By hiring a restaurant to cater your Dulles holiday party, you can relax knowing your guests will enjoy every bite and you will enjoy every moment with your guests.

4. Add an interactive element to your party

Part of every successful party is making sure your guests feel engaged and depending on the size of your party, you can’t be the only one to make sure everyone is having a good time.

Consider incorporating an activity that your guests can be a part of while feeling entertained.  For example:

• A DIY s’mores making station
• A white elephant gift exchange
• A karaoke sing-off
• Having a musician or other performer entertain your guests

Whatever you plan to do, make sure it fits the theme of your party and the group of people you invite.

5. Show appreciation

At the end of your holiday party, make sure to take the opportunity to thank your guests for stopping by and spending a part of their holiday with you.

A great way to say thank you is by giving your guests a nice, handwritten thank you card with a heartfelt message, or even a small parting gift to remind them of the holiday party fun!

A thankful and appreciative gesture will be remembered by your guests and is also scientifically proven to improve your overall health and reduce stress.

6. Make cleanup quick and easy.

Cleaning up after a party can be quick and easy if you keep these simple tips in mind:

• Use disposable platters and serving dishes as well as disposable plates and flatware for your guests. You can purchase some great holiday patterns either online or at your local party store that will add to the festivity of your event.  Or you may choose to just use the disposable ware provided by your local Dulles caterer.  You should take into consideration the quality of the platters and other serving pieces that are provided when you select a caterer.
• Consolidate food on platters and throw out empty plates and cups throughout your event. You may even want to consider hiring someone to help with throughout the evening.  Or even ask a friend or family member to help you out.
• Send leftovers home with your guests – they’ll love it and you won’t have to deal with a fridge full of food the next day.

Ready to host your very own fun and stress-free party?

Well, if you’re in Dulles, VA area and you’re looking for an affordable catering service for your upcoming special event, contact Cafesano today!

Cafesano Mediterranean restaurant offers a unique assortment of fresh and flavorful Italian and Mediterranean foods that will delight your guests at your next special event.  Gluten free menu items and vegetarian options are also available so you can be assured of having something for everyone.

Feel free to check out our convenient online catering menu and ordering options, and let Cafesano help make your next holiday party a hit (and hopefully a little less stressful)!

The post 6 Tips to Hosting a Stress-Free Holiday Party appeared first on Cafesano.

`Tis the season for holiday parties, family gatherings, and don’t forget lots of great catered food.

Family and friends join together to celebrate the end of the year and the New Year that’s coming by socializing, eating, and drinking.

While the holiday season may seem like the perfect excuse to splurge on everything in sight, this is not the best choice for your overall health, or your waistline.

It is said that during the holiday season, Americans gain approximately one pound every year.

And while that may not seem like a lot, especially when you look back at how many extras pieces of pie you had just at Thanksgiving, it is suggested that most people never lose that pound over the course of the next year. Long term, that can mean many extra pounds of weight gain.

Talk about putting holiday excess into perspective.

Luckily, I am here to tell you that you can survive the holiday season’s attempt to sabotage your health by following a few simple tricks, even if the party is catered.

Let’s take a look at some of the best ways you can eat healthy and light at a catered event, while still enjoying the season’s good cheer.

The Pre-Party Plan

So you have a company party to attend to in Dulles, or maybe you are looking forward to the short travel to Vienna where Mom always hosts the family get together. Whatever the case may be, surely holiday food and drink are in store, which means you must have a plan if you want to stay on track with your eating habits.

Here are some excellent tips to follow pre-party that will set you up for success when you encounter the haven of food that will be displayed once you walk through your party host’s door.

Rest Up and Don’t Skip Meals

Getting a good night’s sleep the night before a holiday party, is the key to eating lighter at your holiday party. Aim for at least seven hours of sleep and make them count.

Men tend to have an increased appetite the day after a poor night’s sleep while women tend to feel less full even after eating entire meals. Both men and women are said to eat on average an extra 300 calories the day after a night short on sleep. The key is to get enough rest so you can stay healthy and eat light, even if Mom is pushing an extra dessert your way.

Eat normally the day of the party. If you skip your daily meals in preparation for overdoing it that evening, you will show up to the party starved and eat everything in sight, which, regrettably, is neither healthy nor light.

Wear Those Skinny Jeans

Ok, maybe not exactly skinny jeans per se, but definitely consider your holiday outfit when planning for your office holiday party, and definitely don’t wear your favorite “active wear” pants to your best friend’s ugly sweater party!

Those loose fitting clothes you love to wear to holiday party are off limits. They stretch and adjust to your growing belly as you consume more and more food, and before you know it, you are about to explode.

You want to feel some level of discomfort, even after indulging on your favorite Cafesano Roasted Turkey & Havarti Panini. It’s that discomfort that you feel that will keep you from overindulging.

The Grand Entrance

Upon arrival to the famous office party your company throws every year in the heart of McLean, or the family dinner that happens once a year that everyone always attends, take note of your surroundings.

See what the food and drink situation is, observe what everyone else is doing, and stay committed to eating light and healthy no matter what.

Be Picky

Research shows that your first trip to the buffet line will be the moment you consume the most food. You tend to be the hungriest at this time, the food is super fresh and perfect looking, and you want everything.

Stay away from heavy dressings on salads or fried appetizers your first go-round. If Cafesano has been delivered, try munching on hummus and veggies or some Orzo & Spinach salad before you indulge in the main course.

Go easy when adding nuts, cheese, cream sauces, gravy, and butter; these are all things that are not necessary to the meal, but can add plenty of calories to your waistline and make you feel overstuffed by night’s end.

Only indulge on your favorite holiday treats. Instead of wasting calories on foods that you can have year-round, choose something different and unique that appeals to your palate. Whether it be Cafesano’s Tzatziki dip, the Signature Salad or Marinated Chicken Kabobs, make your food choices count and make them special.

Into the Night

As the party continues and you begin to feel comfortable with your surroundings, it is easy to lose sight of what you are eating.

Check out some ways for you to stay the high road and remain healthy as the night continues.

Make Better Choices

It is okay to want to eat a little more at a holiday party than you usually might on a regular night in – that’s what the holidays are for. However, by making slightly healthier choices throughout the night, trust me, your waistline will thank you.

• Use smaller plates to avoid overloading with excess food.
• Never stack foods on top of each other. This helps with portion control.
• Take tiny bites and chew thoroughly. Eating fast will lead to over consumption making you anything but healthy and light.
• Make your plate colorful (think Cafesano’s Avocado Dip, fruit platter choices, or Grilled Chicken Pesto Panini).
• Be mindful of what you put on your plate – especially when in a large group setting where conscious decision making typically fades. Don’t let distractions make you forget how much you are consuming and cause you to mindlessly eat whatever is in front of you. Enjoy the process of smelling, tasting, and enjoying your food.

Be Helpful to Your Host

Anyone that has thrown a holiday party in their home knows that the cleanup afterwards is the worst.

When everyone is gathered around (still munching on the yummy cheese pies delivered via Cafesano’s catering), chatting and laughing the night away, why not assist your host and help with some of the cleanup.

Clean some dishes, package leftovers that will not be going home with you, or help arrange the table back to its pre-party state. Your host will love you for it and so will your health.

This will help you stay true to your plan to eat light and healthy, while still being able to enjoy the company of your friends.

Be a Kid Again

If you are not the cleanup type of person, and not many of us are, why not try focusing on other activities after the main courses have been served.

Rather than noshing on leftover Falafel or the ever-popular Baklava dessert tray, focus on your friends and family instead.

Play a game of pool, take to caroling around the old neighborhood, or go traditional and play charades.

Being active during your holiday party will not only keep things light and fun, but will keep you from constantly grabbing at foods you have already had your fill of. I know, it’s hard…catering from Cafesano is soooo good!

As the Night Winds Down, So Should You

After you have had enough food to feel satisfied, yet are not overfull and can still breathe in those snug clothes you should be wearing, pop a mint or chew some gum. This trick will help freshen your palate and curb the urge to eat more food if some is still laying out for you to enjoy.

Holiday parties are much more than just catered foods. They are a time to enjoy the cheer your co-workers, friends, or family bring to your life.

If you focus on being mindful, not overdoing it, and enjoying only the best of dishes, you will surely feel confident that while you enjoyed your evening, you kept it light and healthy.

Catering Your Northern Virginia Office Party

If you or someone you know is in charge of catering the office holiday party or the annual family and friends get together, consider choosing Dulles’s best catering: Cafesano. Serving up some of the healthiest and lightest foods, with a perfect mix of Italian and Mediterranean flavor, your guests will have no problem enjoying the foods and remaining healthy during your party.

Conveniently providing online ordering with Catering Coordinators standing by to assist you with anything you need, Cafesano helps to provide the special people in your life a way to eat healthy and light this holiday season – it couldn’t be any easier!

The post A Holiday Survival Guide for Eating Healthy and Light at a Catered Event appeared first on Cafesano.

Feeding guests is one of the most important elements of any party or business event.

Hiring the perfect caterer for the occasion will reduce party planning stress and make the event as memorable and enjoyable as possible for everyone.

When most people begin looking for a caterer, they tend to unconsciously limit their options to companies that specialize in traditional, full-service catering.

What they often don’t realize is that many of their favorite restaurants offer catering too.

Full-service caterers are a great option for larger or more upscale events like weddings, but there can be a lot of advantages to using a restaurant that caters over a full-service catering company, especially if your gathering is going to be small, last minute, or casual.

5 Great Reasons You Should Use a Restaurant to Cater Your Next Event in Northern Virginia

1. Lower Price

When you hire a full-service caterer, you will likely need a pretty large minimum order for the caterer to even consider your event, so only larger parties need apply.

Quick casual restaurants like Cafesano don’t have minimum order sizes, so any group size can be accommodated.

Party organizers can get a clear idea of what kind of prices to expect from a restaurant that caters by dining with them and scoping out the menu, whereas many catering companies will not provide prices until you meet with them in person or are ready to make some kind of commitment.

Overall per-person prices tend to be lower with restaurants because food costs and overhead are distributed across the restaurant business AND catering business.

Consistent high-volume food orders also make it easier for restaurants to get better prices on food from their suppliers: a savings which can then be passed on to the customer.

Restaurant catering menus tend to be somewhat simpler and less “fussy”, with the major emphasis on flavor and quality rather than fancy flourishes for presentation, which keeps costs in check.

2. Try Before You Buy

Full-service catering companies do not normally have storefronts where prospective clients can come and eat, so you will need to set up a meeting to discuss your event and a tasting if you decide to book them.

Many catering companies don’t even provide tastings unless a client is serious about using them, which makes it difficult to make decisions about the food items you may want for your event.

Restaurants that cater, on the other hand, typically have traditional business hours during meal times, so you can stop by and try their food at any time before deciding to use them as your caterer. If the food isn’t what you’re looking for, you can quickly move on to other options.

3. Focus on Food

Successful restaurants make their living by serving consistently good food.

While restaurants certainly do care about plating and presentation, they are less likely to spend time and money fussing over garnishes and tablescapes when there are guests to feed.

If there is ever a slip in quality, restaurants hear about it quickly and fix it quickly or risk losing business. Cooks in the kitchen get daily practice making their entire menu so their skills stay sharp.  You can rest assured that food catered from a successful restaurant is going to be of a high quality.

Popular restaurants have the advantage of being widely known and loved in their communities compared to full-service caterers. If you are planning a business event or casual outdoor party, it’s always a hit when guests see their favorite restaurant is providing the food.

4. Utmost Flexibility

Full-service catering companies usually provide a list of approved venues they will work with, and if your venue isn’t on the list you are out of luck.

You’d better plan ahead too, since most events book their full-service caterers months in advance; it will be tricky to get catering for tomorrow’s business luncheon.

Alternatively, restaurants that cater are typically very flexible about where and when they will deliver food. Most restaurants can accommodate a last-minute sales meeting, reunion, tailgate, or holiday party with as little as a day or two’s notice.

And if you’re in a real hurry, you may just want to place your order and pick it up yourself.

If you are in need of a venue, many restaurants offer group dining areas where they can provide catering for your party in a private or semi-private section of their dining room.

As far as menu flexibility goes, restaurants that cater can typically make anything from their regular menu into a catering order. So if there’s something you especially like at your favorite local restaurant and you don’t see it offered on the catering menu, chances are good the restaurant will be accommodating and include it with your catering order.

5. Impact of Frequent Reviews

The recent rise of restaurant review websites and apps means that every customer’s opinion matters more than ever and can impact a restaurant’s reputation and business.

Restaurant owners and cooks are used to receiving feedback from everyone they serve, where full-service caterers might only receive feedback from the person placing the catering order and paying the bill.

Because restaurants are interested in the experience of each individual, they tend to be more aware of common customer concerns and can quickly fine-tune their recipes and processes to address customer feedback.

Menu items are reviewed daily, so consistent quality is assured and any recipe glitches are corrected quickly.

Whether you are planning a corporate department meeting, a family reunion, or a backyard barbecue, it’s important to do your research and consider your catering options carefully.

Talk to a few caterers before you make your decision, and definitely taste their food before you commit to anything.

The right caterer for your event should ease the stress of party planning and feel like a match made in foodie heaven, so don’t settle for anything less than stellar food and perfectly professional service.

Cafesano restaurant offers fresh Mediterranean-style fare and convenient catering in Northern VA. We can put together a satisfying business luncheon or a unique tailgating spread that will impress carnivores, herbivores, chowhound, and foodies alike.

And best of all, you can plan and place a catering order online, from the comfort of your couch, with no phone calls, meetings, or negotiations. It’s catering that’s fresh, local, professional, and just as easy as ordering takeout.

The post Choose a Restaurant to Cater Your Next Event – You Won’t Be Sorry! appeared first on Cafesano.

Fortunately here are a few simple tips for our neighbors in Northern Virginia that will have the kudos coming your way without the stress you simply don’t need during this festive but hectic time of year.

1. Pick the right date and time for your party.

When selecting an event date, make sure it doesn’t fall too close to the holidays or run into conflicts with your employees’ or friends’ religious observations. Timing is everything with any party, but particularly around the holidays when so many activities are crammed into just a few weeks.

Consider a date early in the holiday season, before folks start filling up their calendars. And be sure to send out invitations well in advance with a prominent RSVP request and a deadline.

2. Choosing the ideal location

For smaller office parties, consider:

• Would it be convenient to host the party in the office during the week, or would you like to invite the office to celebrate at your home during the weekend?
• Will it be kept to office staff only, or will you encourage employees and clients to bring their families?

For a larger corporate gala, here are a few things to consider when choosing a venue:

• Is it convenient to the office and where your employees live?
• Is there plenty of parking?
• Does the management have experience in event planning?
• Do they have a good reputation? (We can make a few suggestions if you’d like).
• Do your employees have any ideas or preferences? (Ask them).

For a party at your home, think about the following:

• Do you have room to accommodate both the people and the food in your home?
• If you want to invite a lot of people, should you just serve appetizers and finger foods and do you have places around your home where you can distribute platters of food and beverages so folks can get to them easily?
• If you want to have an actual meal, do you have a place where your guests can eat comfortably and do you want everyone to eat together and in the same room at the same time?

3. Try adding a theme this year.

Perhaps your business had an exceptional year of growth or you’ve launched a new product and want that reflected along with a holiday theme. You might also use the event to hand out special awards or make an announcement about the past year or the new year ahead. (Again invite your employees to make suggestions. Make it their event in a very real way.)

If your family has a traditional time and place to come together for the holidays, you can still add a distinctive touch to each year by incorporating a unique theme to your decorations and menu choices.

• 

  Consider adding hor d’oeuvres that your guests may not see at another holiday party this year like hummus with warm pita bread or falafel bites with tahini sauce.

• Consider featuring menu items made with fresh ingredients from local farmers. Serving a variety of wines and craft beers from local Virginia wineries and breweries is certain to be a hit! (We’re big on fresh and local.)
• Instead of serving predictable sugar cookies, opt for a different choice of desserts that include trays of mini Italian cannoli and traditional baklava.
• Decorate with wreaths and garland from your local Christmas tree farm, trimmed with holly and burlap ribbon – you can’t beat the “traditional” look and your house will smell wonderful too!

4. Order the right amount of food.

One of the biggest challenges to hosting a party is knowing how much food and drink your guests will require. There are a number of useful charts that assist in estimating how much food is needed, but try to think back on previous events.

Make sure your invitations have an RSVP so you know how many guests you will be hosting. And going forward, keep track each year of how much food and beverage you ordered, how many people came, and how much food and beverage was left over.

While ordering too much could mean having leftovers for a few days, ordering too little can cut your party short. At Cafesano, we provide catering to groups of all sizes in Northern Virginia and we’re happy to assist you with ordering just the right amount of food so you can minimize the chances of over- or under-ordering and ensure your guests go home happy!

5. Order the right types of food.

Many people have food allergies and dietary restrictions and you’ll be a hero if you provide menu items that take this into consideration. If you’re hosting an intimate party with friends and family, you probably know everyone’s preferences. However, for larger parties, we recommend you select menu items that cater to a variety of diets.

Keep vegetarian, vegan, kosher, and gluten-free diets in mind as you plan your menu. Cafesano Catering in Northern Virginia has a wide selection of dishes that can satisfy almost any need. From our popular Salad Bowls and Panini & Wrap Platters that include vegan and vegetarian selections, to our gluten-free catering selections, our Catering Coordinator will work with you to create a customized menu that will insure your event is a hit for all your guests!

Catering Your Northern Virginia Party

This year, simplify your holidays and consider using the services of a local caterer in Northern Virginia. Cafesano Catering in Reston, VA will make sure planning for your event is simple and hassle-free.

Online ordering, and delivery services, as well as a large selection of fresh, flavorful and healthy menu items, make Cafesano Catering the perfect choice for your holiday party. Let us take care of the food so you can concentrate on making sure your guests are having fun. Who knows – maybe you’ll actually enjoy the party yourself!

Cafesano Catering, providing catering services in Northern Virginia for over 6 years, makes holiday party planning simple with catering services for both intimate house parties and large corporate events.

Choose from a flavorful and unique assortment of Italian and Mediterranean menu items. Contact Cafesano today and we’ll help you start planning your upcoming holiday event in Northern Virginia.

What dish are you most looking forward to at your next holiday gathering?

The post Tips for Planning a Holiday Party appeared first on Cafesano.

Next time you have a business meeting, consider the high quality corporate catering options offered in Northern Virginia over the typical finger food, boring sandwiches, and supermarket party platters your peers and clients are accustomed to.

Who Uses Corporate Catering?

Corporate catering in Northern Virginia is often thought of as a service reserved for only high end business executives and clients. However, there are plenty of reasonably priced catering services and options that provide professionals with the opportunity to compliment their business meeting with good food.   Some examples of business settings where corporate catering can provide value-added benefits include:

Sales meetings

No matter the industry, being a sales rep in today’s crowded business environment is competitive and challenging. Many sales reps try to one-up each other by giving customers cheap promotional items and giveaways. Why not set the bar high and leave a lasting impression with a catered lunch meeting the next time you stop by? Provide menu items that aren’t offered in typical business luncheons, such as a Mediterranean dip platter with Panini sandwiches and lavash chips. Serving a meal that is as unique as your product is a sure-way to leave a lasting impression.

Internal Business Meetings

It’s tough to get employees excited about yet another meeting. One way to get their attention is to offer a fresh & flavorful lunch at your next monthly meeting. The employees will enjoy a nicely presented and complimentary lunch and you’ll have the opportunity to demonstrate that you’re sensitive to their time constraints by feeding them while you’re meeting with them!

If you work with a reputable and affordable caterer, you’ll be able to offer a variety of dishes that will satisfy everyone’s tastes and even accommodate dietary restrictions.

Celebrations

Recognizing milestones and success stories is always a good excuse for a celebration. Whether it’s a coworker’s retirement, the meeting of a new sales goal, or a company anniversary, corporate catering can take a celebration to the next level by making sure the food is as special as the event. From a variety of fresh salad bowls with platters of colorful wraps to a selection of fresh pasta dishes followed by cannoli for dessert, a corporate caterer will make sure the food compliments and adds excitement to the special occasion.

Tips for Your Next Catered Event

To add to the success of your next catered event, keep the following easy tips in mind:

• Accurate Headcount. Try to come up with an accurate headcount. There’s nothing worse than running out of food or spending money on food you don’t need.

• Cover Your Bases. Once you’ve selected your food and beverage, don’t forget plates, bowls, napkins, utensils, etc.    Most corporate caterers will provide these for you.  Also be sure your caterer can accommodate delivering the food where you need it and when you need it.

• Dietary Restrictions. Find out if any of your guests have special food requests and/or dietary restrictions before finalizing your catering order. Recognizing that some folks have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies will be greatly appreciated. Many caterers now offer gluten-free menu items, vegetarian-friendly foods, and even low-salt dishes.

• Location.   Be sure you have a meeting area big enough to accommodate food set-up.  Or, better yet, take a break from your meeting and have a break-out room for your lunch. Either way, be sure you have enough tables setup to hold your food and beverage and think ahead about how folks will serve themselves – serving from both sides of a table is a great way to get folks served quickly.

The Best in Northern Virginia Catering

For corporate catering in Northern Virginia, consider the fresh and flavorful Mediterranean & Italian catering menu offered by Cafesano. We offer unrivalled customer service, delicious food, affordable pricing and convenient online ordering. For more information, please contact us today!

The post Take Your Next Business Meeting to a New Level with Corporate Catering appeared first on Cafesano.

Graduation Day is approaching fast. Whether it’s your child’s kindergarten, high school or college graduation, you have probably already started planning a big party. Maybe you’ve been planning it for the past few years?

We have put together a few graduation party ideas and tips to help you make this special event go as smooth as possible.

How to Host a Great Graduation Party in Dulles

Select the right date

Of course, the graduation ceremony schedule is out of your control, and having the party on the same evening probably isn’t a good idea, anyway. Celebrate on graduation day by taking your lovely son or daughter and close family members and friends out for a delicious dinner at their favorite local Dulles restaurant. You’re always welcome at Cafesano – we see many graduates celebrating here this time of year.

Coordinate the date and time of your graduation party with your child’s best friends to make sure everyone is available. Many families will be hosting graduation parties around the same time and by working together, your son or daughter will be able to share their graduation celebration with their school friends of many years – people they might not be seeing as much in the future.

What to do: Make a list of who to invite, select a date, make sure that “must-have” guests are available and mail out the invitations. Here is a neat invitation template from AntsyDesigns.

Shine the spotlight on the graduate

They did it – they graduated and it’s their party!  You don’t have to build a shrine, but personalize the party by putting up something special to commemorate your child’s achievement. Make your son or daughter feel special by displaying a collage with their childhood photos. Or have a table with special awards and trophies on it, accompanied by an album or a scrapbook with pictures and mementos from years gone by; make a t-shirt quilt from their favorite high school t-shirts, hang a “congratulations” banner, write their initials on cupcakes, order personalized M&Ms – the list goes on!

Feeling crafty? Here is a great DIY project from the Work in Progress Kits.

Make memories and create keepsakes

Graduation is a unique experience – although your child will go through several “graduations”, each one is a little different and special in its own way. Make sure that as your (now grown up) child says goodbye to their high school friends or college buddies, he or she has something to remember them by. Consider hiring a professional photographer to document the event. The graduates will be snapping tons of photos on their phones, but it’s difficult to gather them all in one place afterward.

Alternatively, you could ask the guests to sign a guest book or a large photo of the graduate or group photo of the class. If you are looking for something more elaborate, get a few ideas from this “Keys to Success” display by Chris Nease of Celebrations at Home. This table serves as a place to pick up party favors and leave heartfelt notes for the graduate to hold on to.

Let a caterer take care of the food

A graduation party doesn’t need an elaborate menu or a sit-down dinner. Remember – guests may be attending multiple parties, so big meals aren’t expected.  Consider instead a variety of finger foods that can be easily set out and refreshed. You’ll want to free yourself up to celebrate with your child and to visit with your guests.  You’ve already done a lot to ensure your party is a success –now it’s time to let Cafesano take care of the cooking! We have plenty of easy-to-handle finger foods and small bites: choose a Hummus dip platter, homemade Falafel and Cheese Pies, platters of warm Panini and flavorful Wraps, grilled skewers and more! Your guests will be certain to find something they love.  Take a look at our menu and call us for catering in Reston and nearby locations.

And don’t forget to have fun

So, what are your guests going to do besides eat delicious food and congratulate the graduate? It’s important to come up with a few entertainment ideas to keep everyone occupied. If you plan an outdoor event, you can set up corn-hole, horseshoe and twister stations in your backyard. For twister, you can just paint circles on the grass using a stencil.

You can also set up a photo station with a fun backdrop and plenty of photo props – this is guaranteed to keep everyone busy and laughing, too! After the party, you can collect all the photos you took, including those posted on social media by the attendees, and create photo strips. Let the graduate write down his or her new address or a personal note on the back and send them to the guests as ”thank you” cards.

Graduation is a bitter-sweet moment for everyone, but it’s also full of hope and excitement over what comes next. Enjoy the day and we hope these ideas will help you make your graduation party extra special for your graduate.

The post 5 Tips for a Successful & Stress-Free Graduation Party appeared first on Cafesano.

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word “catering?” You are probably picturing a wedding or a large business meeting of some sort.  While these types of events do frequently utilize catering, there are many other smaller occasions when a caterer can lend you a helping hand.

Consider Catering in Northern Virginia for Family Events

Whether it’s watching the Olympics, hosting a baby shower or celebrating grandma’s birthday, don’t hesitate to ask your favorite restaurant to take care of the food. Consider this:

Catering is not as expensive as you may think.

In fact, you often get more value for your money when you place a catering order versus buying ingredients and cooking from scratch. Of course, you have to choose your caterer wisely.   At Cafesano, our regular customers come back to us because our catering menu is not only flavorful and unique – it’s also affordable and healthy and we offer convenient and inexpensive delivery options around Northern VA. Remember, you are paying not only for the food, but also for the free time you get from not having to cook, which brings us to the next point.

Norther Virginia catering saves time.

Spend the night before your event picking an outfit or getting your beauty sleep – not driving to the food store to pick up more eggs because you ran out. Your daily life is busy enough without the added stress of party planning and cooking. Worry about the important things and leave the food preparation to us. At Cafesano we’ve made the process even simpler with our new online ordering system.  Check it out at www.cafesano.com.

Enjoy the party as much as your guests do.

Running between the front door and the kitchen is not anyone’s idea of a good time, is it? When you let someone else take care of the food, you get to embrace your role as a hostess rather than juggling between being a cook and a waiter the entire evening. Go mingle, laugh and be in the photos for once – it’s your party after all.

Take the guesswork out of how much food to serve.

If you entertain only occasionally, figuring out how much food to prepare is always a problem. Have you ever hosted a party where you ended up with way too many leftovers? Or even worse, ran out of food halfway through the event? A professional caterer can eliminate these worries for you, because we know from experience how to plan for groups of all sizes, ages and appetites.

Know that 100% of your menu will turn out delicious.

Have you ever had to apologize to your guests for an over-salted casserole or brownies that came out too dry? Do you recall hastily disposing of burned appetizers and pretending they were never on the menu? You’ll avoid awkward moments like these when you order catering from a restaurant that serves food you’ve enjoyed and love. Cafesano’s menu items regularly win rave reviews from our customers and if you want to order something you’ve never had before, ask for a sample – we’ll make sure you’re happy with everything before you place your order.

Call for catering the next time you host any of the following events:

Sporting Events on TV

Whether it’s NFL or NBA finals, you’ll enjoy the game more when you’ve got friends watching it with you. Go with catering and you won’t miss any important catches or funny commercials while you are running to the kitchen to check on the oven.

Our recommendations: Greet your guests with our delicious dips—our Hummus and Avocado Dip are two favorites. After they’ve worked up a big appetite cheering on their favorite team, use the halftime to serve up heaping platters of our warm Italian Meatball, Roasted Turkey BLT and Caprese Panins. Add another platter of our flavorful Wraps. Serve the Chicken Shawarma, Roasted Turkey Pesto and Hummus & Greek Salad wraps and you can bet your house will be the favorite “go to” place for every TV get-together.

Baby Showers

Give the mother-to-be a lasting memory with a book full of great advice. Purchase a blank baby-themed book in the scrapbooking aisle of your local crafts store, then ask guests to share something they’ve learned from raising their own children or from the way their parents raised them.

Our recommendations: Since many of the guests (including the expectant mom) may be watching their weight, a light meal will appeal to most guests. You can’t go wrong with Cafesano’s Signature Salad (dressing on the side), and Grilled Skewers of marinated chicken, steak or seasoned shrimp, served with our fresh Fruit Kabobs. Since cakes are a thing of the past, order up a tray of our delicious Baklava for something a little different.

Children’s Birthday Party

While most kids love birthday parties, they can be rather stressful for the parents. Reduce the stress by limiting the number of guests and setting a definite pickup time if parents aren’t staying.

Our recommendations: Keep the food simple. Most kids love pizza, so get a basic cheese pizza for the youngsters and give their parents more sophisticated choices like our Margherita, Arrabbiata or Carne Amante pizzas. (Cleanup is easy with pizza, too!)

Wedding Anniversary

To make your wedding anniversary even more special, ask your guests to bring some photos of you and your spouse (those from a while back would be most welcome). Have a special bulletin board where they can be pinned up for everyone to enjoy. Take some photos at the party, and then create a collage from both old and new pictures to keep as a dear memory.

Our recommendations. When your extended family come together to celebrate a special milestone like a 10^th or 20^th wedding anniversary, you want to serve food that’s warm and satisfying.  Our popular pastas will fit the occasion perfectly, whether you choose Penne Arrabbiata, Penne with Basil Pesto, Pasta Marina or our signature Lasagna. Add a Caesar and Signature Salad Bowl and end the evening with a tray of Cannoli.

Girls Night In

Skip the chick flicks and plan an activity that will get everyone talking and laughing. Ask your guests to bring a board game that they loved when they were kids (and have a few of the old favorites such as Life and Sorry on hand).

Our recommendations: Finger foods are a good choice since your guests can enjoy them between talking and playing games. Falafel, Spinach Pie, Tomato or Avocado Bruschetta and any of our dips all go great with any type of wine.

So, next time you’re planning a party, don’t make a grocery list – just call Cafesano and save yourself time and stress with our delicious and affordable catering in Northern Virginia. The possibilities and combinations are endless and don’t forget to enlist the help of our catering coordinators who will ensure your party is a success!

At what other types of events have you found catering to be helpful?

The post 5 Ways Catering Can Make Your Party Planning a Breeze in Northern Virginia appeared first on Cafesano.