How to Plan the Perfect Catered Event: Weddings, Birthdays & Corporate

Whether it's a wedding reception, a milestone birthday, or a corporate lunch — great catering doesn't happen by accident. Here's the quick playbook for any event in Melbourne.

Step 1: Lock in Your Headcount

Get a firm number 5 business days before the event. Pro tip: order for 10% more to cover last-minute additions.

Step 2: Survey Dietary Needs

Send a quick poll. The most common requirements across Melbourne events:

• Gluten-free
• Vegetarian / Vegan
• Dairy-free
• Nut-free
• Halal

Shortcut: Choose a caterer with a naturally inclusive menu (like naturally gluten-free Latin American food) and you skip most of this.

Step 3: Pick Your Format

• Lunch boxes — corporate lunches, casual birthdays
• Buffet — weddings, big celebrations, team events
• Finger food — engagement parties, cocktail birthdays, networking

Step 4: Book Early

Send your caterer: date, headcount, venue address, dietary needs, and budget per head. Weddings: book 2–4 weeks ahead. Other events: 1–2 weeks.

Step 5: Confirm Logistics

Two days before, lock in:

• Delivery time — 15–30 min before guests eat
• On-site contact — someone to meet the driver
• Setup needs — drop-off vs. full setup
• Cutlery & servingware — check if included

Step 6: Day-Of

• Clear the space 30 min before delivery
• Have a table ready for buffet setup
• Take photos — you'll want them for memories (and social media)

Melbourne Price Guide

| Format | Per Head | |--------|----------| | Sandwich platters | $12–$18 | | Individual lunch boxes | $18–$25 | | Hot buffet | $25–$35 | | Premium buffet | $35–$50 | | Finger food / canapés | $8–$15 |

Mistakes That Kill the Vibe

Booking too late — plan 1–2 weeks ahead (longer for weddings)

Ignoring dietary needs — someone always misses out

Choosing on price alone — cheap = cold and generic

Forgetting drinks — check if BYO or included

---

Planning an event in Melbourne? Request a quote from La Charito — premium Latin American catering for weddings, birthdays, corporate & more. 50 years of family recipes, naturally gluten-free, from $25 per person.