Cocktails, buffet or meal? They all have one thing in common: bringing people together to share a moment of conviviality in a relaxed atmosphere. However, there are significant differences between these types of events. Discover the particularities of each so you can choose the best formula for you and your guests.
Cocktails, buffets or meals: define your needs
Are you planning a private event (birthday, christening, family reunion) or a business event (farewell party, business meal, inauguration)? To help you define your needs, we recommend you answer the following 8 questions:
- What’s the occasion?
- What type of event would you like to organize: formal or informal, seated or standing?
- What time of day will the event take place: morning, noon, afternoon, evening?
- Who are the guests: family, friends, colleagues, customers, employees?
- How many people will be there?
- Where will the event take place?
- How long will it last?
- What’s your budget?
Le Cocktails
At Cocktails, guests stand and enjoy light snacks such as canapés and petits fours, served by the staff. Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are also available. This type of event is ideal if you want to offer your guests freedom of movement, while encouraging conversation. Cocktails have a much-appreciated chic touch and a limited duration.
- Aperitif cocktails
This type of Cocktail takes place outside mealtimes. The idea is to share a drink and a few bites at the end of a vernissage or graduation ceremony, for example.
- Lunch or dinner cocktails
It serves as a complete meal without having to set up the logistics (tables, chairs, cutlery, plates). Bites are more substantial and offered in larger quantities. Your caterer can serve mini-brochettes, cassolettes and verrines. Cold and hot, savory and sweet, bouchées are distinguished by their variety. This type of Cocktail is particularly suited to corporate functions.
The buffet
The main difference between cocktails and buffets lies in the presentation of the dishes. In the first case, it’s a question of multiple small bites (in verrines, spoons, picks, etc.). In the second, several large dishes are laid out on the buffet (salad bowls, torpedo boats, etc.). Guests can choose between salads, meats and fish, for example.
At MAYOR TRAITEUR, we provide service not only for cocktail parties, but also for buffets, to ensure that all guests enjoy our preparations equally.
An evening with friends, a site inauguration, a company party or a wedding – many private and professional occasions lend themselves to this. Depending on your needs and the equipment available, your caterer can prepare a cold buffet, a hot buffet or a mixed buffet. A choice of desserts is also available.
The buffet has the advantage of creating a warm, friendly atmosphere. It also offers the comfort of a sit-down meal. Don’t hesitate to give your reception a theme (Italian, Asian, vegetarian buffet, etc.) for an original touch.
The meal at the table
This type of event certainly requires the most preparation and organization. Meals at the table, whether lunch or dinner, are complete. They include at least a starter, main course and dessert.
Your budget includes not only food, but also furniture, table settings, cutlery and service. It’s generally advisable to hire qualified staff for a meal for more than 20 people. The chosen venue must have equipment for reheating dishes. Some caterers, such as MAYOR TRAITEUR, provide this facility.
Catering in Geneva and the canton of Vaud
MAYOR TRAITEUR provides all the services you need in the cantons of Geneva and Vaud. We’ll be delighted to help you organize your private or professional events. Our cuisine is refined, authentic, gourmet and prepared with local produce. Don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss your project.