Christine MerserFood stations are a great idea
People like to nibble and nibbling is less expensive. Use stations rather than serving sit-down meals. Tapas, seafood, and Tuscan food are currently...
Click here to see lots more Tips from Expert Christine Merser of Water Mill Party
Barbara RodriguezForgo formal gatherings
Trends in business entertaining mirror those of social event planning: Everything is more casual today. Rather than having a formal sit-down...
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Brian SempleAvoid the expected
People are far more adventurous, these days. For example, most people used to come in expecting that salmon would be the fish entrée...
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Colin CowieChill out on the champagne
Serve signature cocktails instead of champagne. Beverages are definitely an area where you can cut costs.
Click here to see lots more Tips from Expert Colin Cowie of Colin Cowie Lifestyle
Denise FlachbartTry to find beverage sponsors
If at all possible, get a liquor or wine distributorship to sponsor the bar area of your event. Many of these companies are new and are looking for...
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Cathy RivaParty food strategies
It's more important to have good food and good music than to have stand-out décor. For maximum impact create a relatively low-cost 'Oh,...
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Belinda VenutiPopular money-saving cocktails
Passed signature cocktails that contain more juice than alcohol are not only popular but also cost-effective for parties. Fruit margaritas, and Sea...
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Norman BaumSeafood more popular
Clients tend to eliminate beef items such as filet mignon to cut both costs and cholesterol. People are looking for beef other than Chateaubriand. They...
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Mara BouvierBeer tastings are popular and easy to present
Having people walk up to the area where the beer is being served prompts more social mingling or business networking. The food served at beer tastings...
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Ellen FremauxTiming is everything
We recommend hosting a luncheon rather than a dinner event at our restaurant, to reduce costs. Another alternative for those planning special...
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