Crowd-Pleasing Appetizers For Any Occasion!

“There’s An App For That”

Our wide range of crowd-pleasing appetizers spans the full spectrum of flavor and enticing displays! Tease your taste buds with a few of these appetizing delights. Use these artful morsels to your advantage! Your guests eat with their eyes first, portray a mood or theme through a few choice bites. These delicious mouthfuls will pique your guests’ interest, warming them up for the main course later on.

Our Watermelon Skewers are a small but mighty appetizer!

Bring a hint of summer to any day of the year. An explosion of flavor with Mint, Honey Goat Cheese, Blueberry Basalmic Reduction, and dusted with a pinch of Pistachio, watermelon has never had such a glow-up!

Our Crab Cakes are light, always fresh, and one of our favorite crowd-pleasers.

A little bit of lemon and Herb Remoulade perfectly top off this tasty treat!

Have a crowd looking for the ultimate, savory snack?

The Mini Beef Sliders win over every group with the Sharp Cheddar, Truffle Aoli, and Caramelized Onions!

Be sure to expand your palate!

Explore sweet, savory, and fresh so your guests can experience all sides of their flavor profiles.

Keep your veggie-friendly friends in mind!

We offer several delectable crowd-pleasing appetizers sure to delight your vegan and vegetarian guests.

Try a gourmet spin on classic comforts.

Our Chicken and Waffle Skewers, with Maple Syrup and Crunchy Bacon, take that “mom’s secret recipe” taste, and somehow make this sweet and salty treat better than you remember! We also offer a heavenly Spinach and Artichoke Grilled Cheese with a Creamy Tomato Bisque to satisfy all your childhood dreams.

 

Ask us for our full menu of delicious appetizers!

Whether you’re having a corporate event, holiday party, or celebration, we have the perfect bite-sized appetizer for the occasion. We’re sure each one will excite and delight your hungry guests.

 

San Diego News Suspects Spirits At Mt. Woodson Castle

Mt. Woodson Castle, One Of Our Favorite “Haunts”

“Ghosted” by a Ghost?

San Diego Union-Tribune’s Regina Elling, of the Ramona Sentinel, recently walked the halls of Mt. Woodson Castle, a venue that lies close to our hearts. Due to its tantalizing history for the occult, this historic Castle is a hotspot for San Diego spiritualists during this time of the year. In her article, Regina wonders if the spirit of the Castle’s original owner, Amy Strong, has abandoned the historic site. As we reflect on all of our magical experience at the Castle, any thoughts of spirits are usually at the BAR!

Ghost jokes aside…

For the first time since our partnership with Mt. Woodson Castle, which began about a decade ago, the corridors and kitchens are eerily quiet. If there ever was a spirit, we believe the warmth from our events and respect for the Castle’s history pleased it. Due to the shutdowns caused by Covid-19, you can feel the stones themselves miss the vibrant flow of life from the 100+ weddings per year it was accustomed to. One benefit of this year’s unexpected time-off is that the Castle has never been in such great shape! The Mt. Woodson Castle staff have been busy adding their own personal touch to top-secret historic renovations among the halls. Hopefully, with the start of the new year, guests will appreciate the resurrection of this gorgeous venue’s splendor!

Thanks to Regina Elling of the San Diego Union-Tribune Ramona Sentinel for stopping in for a spell to delve into Mt. Woodson Castle’s incredible history.

We love any opportunity to bring this hidden gem to the surface for everyone to appreciate.

 

Check out Regina’s article here! “Has Mt. Woodson Castle been Ghosted By Amy Strong?”

Intrigued? Take a peek at another article from Fox 5 San Diego about this incredible venue! “Explore San Diego: Enchanted Castle” by rchenfox5.

Can’t get enough? Try “On Memory’s Back Trail: Amy Strong And Her Mt. Woodson Castle” by Darrell Beck for a deeper look into the history!

San Diego Coordinator Spotlight! | Amy Ulkutekin

Amy Ulkutekin created, owns, and manages San Diego based event production/planning company Catalyst Creative and sister wedding planning company, First Comes Love Weddings and Events. With over a decade of event planning experience here in San Diego, with Amy, you know you’re in good hands!

Experts on a beach, in a ballroom, or overlooking a vineyard, First Comes Love Weddings and Events’ weddings reflect the individual personalities of each couple. Their coordinators make sure to work closely with their brides and grooms to create unforgettable moments.

 

 

According to their Wedding Wire, “Your wedding is the most important day of your life. You need someone to handle the details so that everything comes together seamlessly while you relax, enjoy, and celebrate your love. From making sure the favors and escort cards are set to helping you pick the perfect photographer, First Comes Love Weddings and Events will make sure your day is flawless.”

In an interview in 2018 on Narrative Images, Amy explained what her favorite part of her job was. “That no two weddings are the same.  No matter how many times I’ve worked at a venue, each wedding is different because of the couples.  We get to work with some really cool clients, and it’s an honor to bring their vision to life on one of the most important days of their lives.”

Happy past couples describe Amy as always “going above and beyond,” “fun,” and overall highly recommend her!

 

 

Check her out ASAP if you’re looking for the best experience while planning your future event!

 

Catering for a Birthday Party

catering birthday party delicious meal

Planning a birthday party, especially a for a milestone year, may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! If you want to wow your guests with a fun and memorable birthday party in San Diego, the first and most important step is choosing a theme.

Whether you are considering a superhero theme for your son or daughter’s 10th birthday, or if you are hoping to surprise your husband or wife with the most memorable 40th birthday party, an experienced caterer can help you create the ultimate dream party everyone will rave about for years to come!

Choosing a Theme

The first step to planning the ultimate birthday bash is choosing a theme. Once you have the theme down, everything else such as the style and type of food, style and type of drinks, table scape, décor, music and entertainment will all fall into place.

An experienced San Diego caterer can help with much more than just the food! If you choose a reputable caterer, this company will be connected within the community and can introduce you to other vendors to bring your full vision to life.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing the theme:

  • Age/gender — who is the party for and how old is he/she turning? Clearly a party for a 10-year-old will have a much different theme than a party for a 30, 40, 50 or 60-year-old.
  • Time of year — the time of year will help a lot when choosing a theme. For example, you may consider a beach side Hawaiian-themed luau if your party falls during the summer or you may want to go with a magical winter wonderland if your party is during the winter months. The time of year will also determine the location and if the party will be in or outside.
  • Who will attend? When choosing a theme, it’s helpful to think about who your guests will be and what will appeal to them as well.
  • Budget — it’s helpful to think about your budget before choosing a theme, because a circus-themed party with live performers, circus tents and whimsical food and drinks will have a different price tag then a carnival themed party with face painters and a hot dog bar.
  • Style — even if you’re unsure of the theme, it’s helpful to think about how casual versus fancy you want the party to be. For example, are you thinking about daytime BBQ, evening cocktail party with a DJ and tray-passed appetizers or formal wear and sit-down dinner?

Types of Themed Birthday Parties

There are so many fun themes to choose from when planning a party! Of course, the type of party you choose to have will depend on several factors such as those outlined above.

In addition, here are some fun ideas your San Diego birthday party caterer can help with:

  • Circus theme — live performers, large circus tents and dry-ice cocktails
  • Zoo theme — a petting zoo, nacho bar and stuffed animal take-aways
  • Alice in Wonderland — magical tea party with small sandwiches and face painters
  • Winter wonderland — have guests wear all white or silver; decorate with fake snow and trees with sparkling lights; serve tray passed appetizers and champagne with cotton candy finishes
  • Summertime Hawaiian-themed luau — have live Hawaiian dancers, tiki torches and Hawaiian BBQ
  • Baseball themed party — have guests dress in their favorite baseball gear; serve hot dogs, nachos, peanuts and beer
  • Casino night — have casino tables and poker games, servers walking around with tray passed appetizers and fancy cocktails and a buffet serving steak and seafood
  • Partisan getaway — Paris-inspired party with a crepe bar and fancy cocktails; have the guest wear stripes and berets
  • 80s party — have guests wear their favorite 80s style outfit; decorate with cassette tapes; hire a DJ to only play 80s throwback music and rent a photobooth
  • Prom — have guests come in formal prom wear with corsages and boutonnieres; decorate with kitchy balloon arches and hire a photographer to take pictures of all the couples at the door; serve spiked punch and a have your caterer whip up a buffet style dinner with finger foods

Need Help with Catering Your San Diego Birthday Party?

Planning the ultimate birthday party may seem overwhelming, but that’s where an experienced caterer comes in. A trusted caterer can help you focus your theme and execute every detail to ensure this birthday party is the most memorable party yet!

12 Ideas For Your Birthday Party Catering

Looking for catering ideas for your next birthday event? You have come to the right place! When it comes to your birthday party, your celebration should be as smooth and stress-free as possible. Therefore, it is essential to choose an experienced and trustworthy San Diego party catering company. By choosing the best birthday party catering team, your event will come to life. It may even exceed your expectations!

Depending on your preferences, you may want a more casual, low-key celebration. Or, you may want a multi-course meal with a beautiful centerpiece as the highlight of your event. This is why it is important to book an experienced catering company. With the right team on your side, your party will be executed with style and creative vision.

Below are 12 Birthday Party Catering ideas to inspire you for your upcoming celebration.

Beverages for Your Birthday Party Catering

A Variety of Exotic Shakes/Drinks/Juices

Need to please a wide variety of age groups? Try a beverage menu that consists of unique mocktails. Or, step it up a notch and add gourmet ice-cream topped shakes. These colorful drinks, paired to match the theme, will be a playful addition to any event. For your featured menu item, consider adding a signature birthday drink named after yourself. Your guests will love it!

High Tea

Ideal for Spring birthdays, high tea creates a refined atmosphere for small groups. For fun, encourage your guests to come dressed in their finest attire. Once they arrive, your guests will sample an array of petite sandwiches, tarts, and pastries with their tea. Consider a tea menu with various options, such as herbal and fruit-infused brews. Also, be sure to serve a balance of savory and sweet food items.

Coffee Bar

With the rising popularity of small cafes, why not have a coffee bar at your catered birthday event? Think about providing cafe-staples such as nitro, cold-brew, and dairy-free choices. This will give guests the flexibility of several options. If possible, have the coffee bar provided by your caterer, or from a local coffee shop. Make sure to have an expert barista running the show. This way, your guests will be thrilled to order coffee to their liking.

Popular Appetizer Options

Finger Foods

With a big and social crowd, we encourage serving finger foods and bite-sized portions. This way, you will make it convenient for guests who like to mingle. Additionally, smaller serving will enable guests to try a bit of everything. Try to portion servings in individual cups, as opposed to stationed bowls. If you do, your guests will be free to move around the party.

Taco Bar & Mini Margaritas

Who doesn’t love tacos? These Mexican staples are a great option for birthday party catering. With endless toppings and combinations, tacos are always an excellent choice for parties. Add mini margaritas and you have an instant crowd-pleaser.
Birthday Party Catering Crowd Pleasers

Chef’s Table

Does your catering company have an imaginative chef? If so, ask if the chef would be willing to conduct a hands-on demonstration of a favorite dish. This way, guests can see the food prepared, and connect through the immersive, shared experience. It is both interactive and appealing to the senses!

BBQ

BBQs are a great option for a Summertime celebration. Consider an outdoor BBQ featuring a smoked dry rub brisket, pulled pork, and shrimp on the barbie. Pair it with local craft beer on tap or lemonade. This way, you have the perfect combination for your summer birthday party catering event.

Seafood Boil

Want guests to bond over great food and conversation? If so, a seafood boil may be just what you need. Start with fresh seafood and ingredients like corn, potatoes, and andouille sausage. Add some aromatic cajun spices and your guests will crowd around! This is an excellent option for casual, low-key events. It is both delicious and fun activity for all guests. Pair it with signature sweet tea, a Southern classic.

Hawaiian Luau

Another option to consider for a large, casual event is a Hawaiian Luau-themed birthday party. By smoking a whole Kalua pig smoked in tea leaves for hours, it becomes a tender, flavorful entree. Add pillowy Portuguese Sweet Bread, baked Mahi Mahi, and fresh Tuna Poke to round out the menu. To create the right environment, consider decorative hibiscus flowers, pineapples, and fruity cocktails. As the overall theme of a Luau is to entertain a large gathering and enjoy a feast, Luaus create the perfect environment of bringing people together.

Cultural Menu Favorites

International Cuisine

When hiring a caterer, it’s important to find a company with a wide range. For example, your caterer should have expertise in different cultural cuisines. This way, it will help to create unique dining experiences. Instead of staple foods, why not serve Korean BBQ, or Halal Chicken and Rice? Consider a mobile bar as well, such as a Michelada and oyster station. Or, add a cart that serves an array of tequila-based cocktails. This puts the food and beverages in a centralized location. It ensures your guests won’t miss any moments during your event.

Oktoberfest

Celebrate the fall with an Oktoberfest-themed celebration. Greet guests with themed hats and their own custom beer steins. So that guests have a memento of your event, consider a specialty photo booth! Menu essentials to consider are bratwurst + sauerkraut, schnitzel, and Bavarian pretzels. You can even serve various German beers on tap! To go all-out, consider hiring a traditional Bavarian band as the live entertainment. This will take the ambiance of your Oktoberfest-themed event to the next level.

Italian

A hearty winter pasta themed birthday is a crowd-pleaser. For example, try hearty dishes such as Baked Ziti, Lemon-Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells, Spaghetti, Carbonara, Fettuccine Alfredo, Lasagna. Pair with a wine tasting menu and bruschetta appetizers.

Final Thoughts About Birthday Party Catering

The possibilities are only limited by your imagination. An experienced catering company will be able to tailor an entire event package that best fits your needs. And our expertise extends beyond catering. For example, if you need linens, decor, and china, you will benefit from an all-inclusive package.

The catering service you choose to work with should be able to help you assemble your event team. As an established caterer, we will provide you with connections to popular vendors. We at Personal Touch Dining strive to provide our clients with all the help they need to bring their ideas to life.

Let us create a special birthday party catering menu that you’ll remember for years to come. We’ll do the heavy lifting for you to focus on enjoying the event itself. That is our promise to you!

7 Things To Include In Your Wedding Coffee Bar

Planning a wedding? Not sure what to include in your reception? With the popularity of gourmet cafes, coffee bars are becoming a fun addition to wedding receptions. If you are considering including coffee bar at your wedding, below are some suggestions for staple items you may want to have at your event. Here are 7 ideas for what to include in your wedding coffee bar.

Themed Wedding Coffee Bar

Rather than a plain coffee station, consider having a themed coffee bar that suits the ambiance of your wedding. Below are some theme ideas you could possibly incorporate into your own event.

Classic Coffee Station

This is an option for venues opting for a simple, contemporary theme. This theme uses little to no decor apart from simple signage indicating what the station is for. Crisp white linens and refillable pots are commonly used for such a theme. Consider using a centerpiece behind the coffee station celebrating the couple for guests to sign, with individual sugar packets housed by small wooden boxes.

Vintage Coffee Bar

A vintage theme provides flexible options when it comes to decorative choices. This could consist of retro-inspired decor from the decade of your choice, or a Victorian theme. Try incorporating silver and glass elements with antique, vintage wood surfaces to add a touch of elegance.

Country Coffee Station

Common design elements used in Country-themed wedding coffee bars include large chalkboard wedding signage and wooden-slate tabletops. Custom mason jar mugs etched with symbols from the wedding are another addition to personalize the experience for your event.

Various Coffee Flavors for Your Wedding Coffee Bar

For weddings in cooler months, you may want to consider a variety of hot coffee options. Popular cafe items include lattes, cappuccinos, espressos, and mochas. Iced versions of these beverages for summer weddings are also an option.

You may want a seasonal flavor to match the theme of your wedding. Examples include pumpkin spice for an autumn wedding or peppermint for a winter event. Or, pair a favorite flavor with your wedding cake, such as a white chocolate mocha with a white chocolate cake. Additionally, you can feature a coffee-based dessert cocktail once afternoon becomes evening. Coffee and Kahlua shots are a popular choice.

The inclusion of hot cider, cocoa, and a number of loose leaf tea options for non-coffee drinkers ensures accommodation for all guests.

Custom Drinkware

For a more personalized approach to your coffee bar, you may want to include custom some elements. Personalized ceramic mugs can double as party favors. Alternatively, a convenient option is to-go cups. Personalized sleeves can display a custom message tailored to the event. You can try monogrammed toppings for your foamy lattes, and even monogrammed stirrers.

Treats and Condiments for Your Wedding Coffee Bar

In addition to beverages, cafes offer small food items to accompany their coffee. Some ideas you can borrow from these cafes include chocolate-dipped stirrers, biscotti, croissants, cake pops that match the color of your wedding, and assorted cupcakes.

You will most likely want a variety of dairy and non-dairy milk options for guests with allergies. Common cafe items include milk, cream, soy milk, and almond milk.

As another bonus for your guests, you can include a small selection of various mix-ins and toppings. These include, but are not limited to:

  • Whipped cream
  • Chocolate shavings
  • Sprinkles
  • Crushed peppermint
  • Creamer
  • Butterscotch chips
  • Marshmallows
  • Cinnamon sticks
  • Flavored syrups

The number of options available will increase the overall satisfaction amongst guests. These items can be part of a self-service coffee bar if you prefer. This will give guests the flexibility to mingle and customize their drink to their liking.

Final Thoughts about Wedding Coffee Bars

As you can see in the examples above, your wedding coffee bar can be tailored to suit the theme of your event. These are only a handful of possible ideas and meant as a starting point of things to include in your wedding coffee bar.

An experienced catering company will tailor your coffee bar to your needs. An established catering company will also provide you with options and fulfill your exact needs through their connections in the industry. For example, Personal Touch Dining strives to provide the very best in catering services for our clients. Every event we handle is handled with utmost care.

With our years of experience working in food & beverage catering, we will take your ideas to another level beyond your wildest imagination, created especially for you in mind. We make the process convenient and stress-free, so our clients can sit back and enjoy their event of a lifetime. Don’t leave your catering to chance. We don’t just bring your creative ideas to life. With our expertise, we elevate your initial ideas to be the best they can be.

Full-service event catering ideas for hosting a perfect Corporate Holiday Party

Planning a corporate holiday party can be a daunting task, as it is more often than not the biggest event of the year. It is a morale-booster and a way to develop the company’s culture. It can be overwhelming to plan such a large even around the holidays. However, with the right planning and resources, it doesn’t have to be.

Here are some full-service catering tips for the perfect corporate holiday party.

Corporate Holiday Party Dining Options

During the holiday party, it is essential that all team members feel included as part of the festivities. Elect teams to manage different aspects of your event, to keep everyone engaged and feel valued. Set up a drink and souvenir station upon entry (silly hats?) to welcome guests and set the mood for a fun, holiday event. Once guests approach the main area, you’ll want to plan the logistics of how guests will dine at your event. Options are always a good choice. They ensure a stress-free experience for all guests to let them enjoy the festivities and take everything at their own pace.

Variety Is the Spice of Life

Employees will feel appreciated and part of the team by offering menu items and holiday traditions based on your employees’ backgrounds.You could have a sushi and ramen station across from a tapas bar, followed by meditarranean offerings at a third station.

Label Everything

Food allergies are very common. In fact, an estimated 32 million Americans have at least one food allergy. To accommodate for employees with allergies and food sensitivities, clearly label all of your menu offerings. Also, be sure to offer a wide assortment of menu items. This will ensure a stress-free holiday experience for those with allergies.

Team-Building

White Elephant

It is common practice across many organizations to host holiday party gift-exchanges between employees. They are a way for employees to feel valued, and for the company to encourage the holiday spirit. Each participant supplies a wrapped gift (the organizer should determine gift criteria prior to the event.) Players determine which order they will take turns selecting gifts. The first person opens a wrapped gift, ending their turn. Each subsequent turn, a participant has the option of unwrapping a new gift, or stealing another player’s. Consider having one at your corporate holiday party to entertain your guests.

Choose a Theme

A theme goes a long way, as it sets the mood for decor and dining options. Subtle details, like table decorations, can establish the tone for the Holiday spirit. A well-executed theme also encourages employees to loosen up, and to enjoy the festivities. When selecting a theme, other elements to take into consideration are lighting, costumes, seating arrangements, and plating, to name a few.

Photobooth for Your Corporate Holiday Party

Photobooths are increasing in popularity at events, as they are interactive and enable guests to create their own memories. Consider including one at the entrance of your event or in a designated area beside the bar. This way, guests can snap an impromptu photo while waiting for their order. Consider staging the photo booth with holiday decor to match the theme of your event.

Decide on Drinks

You may want to narrow down your alcoholic beverage options to limit intoxication while still letting guests enjoy the event. For example, prepare a Signature cocktails in small taster size glasses. This enables your invitees to enjoy the taste of a holiday drink. It also minimizes the risk of over-indulging. Another option is to limit your beverage menu to wine and beer only, eliminating the hard alcohol altogether..

Build-Your-Own-Dessert Bar

Giving your guests the option to create their own dessert offers an unparalleled experience, as no two creations will be the same. Allowing such customization options and engagement will be sure to entertain your guests.

The Space

Finding the right venue to host your party is essential, as it ensures your party will be executed to its full potential. Choose a venue that is appropriate based on the size of your event and projected number of attendees.

Timing

Will your event need to be on a weekday or will it work best on a weekend? Consider which option will work best for the majority of your guests. This decision will make considerable impact on other details, and planning the date as early as possible will ensure plans go as smoothly as possible.

To Buffet or not to Buffet

Holiday parties are typically served buffet-style or by wait staff. Once you determine the menu items and number of attendees, you may find that one works better for your needs. For example, if you are planning a corporate holiday with a large number of guests, consider opting for buffet-style. Lines will move relatively quickly, enabling guests to socialize and dine at their leisure.

If you plan on serving a buffet, consider menu items that tie in with the holiday season. This could include cheese platters with a wide assortment of crackers and preserved fruit, as well as finger-foods that are easy to eat with minimal mess.

Instead of one long buffet, you may want to set up different stations that serve various small plates. This will reduce the risk of long lines. Guests will appreciate quick access to various freshly-made small portions. They will also be able to try everything your party has to offer.

Summary

We at Personal Touch Dining bring extensive experience and resources to execute your perfect corporate holiday party. We are a premier San Diego catering company that can provide you with all of the options above and more. Whether you need a full-service holiday catering event, or prepared meals, we are here to accomodate to your needs. Bring us your ideas! We will not only bring them to fruition, but use them as a foundation to inspire our own creativity and recommendations. You are only limited by your imagination.

Beyond catering, we offer venues to host your event, bar service, and a large list of partner vendors. This helps you to bring sophisticated events together, all in one place. Drop us a line today, and let’s talk about your upcoming holiday party!

13 Tasty and Functional Snack Ideas for an Offsite Corporate Party

Everyone looks forward to holiday parties: networking, friendly conversation, meeting new people, and of course, delicious bites. The perfect snacks for your offsite corporate party could prove to be the highlight of the event.

A cheese and olive plate is a good starting point. But if your guests will be arriving hungry, they will be looking for a bit more from your office party to pique their taste buds and get them talking.

Consider these office party appetizers your guests won’t soon forget.

13 Delicious and Functional Office Party Snack Ideas

Loaded with unique combinations of flavors, these office party appetizers and snack ideas will surely delight guests and satisfy stomachs.

When planning your menu, make sure to take unique diets into consideration.

Older guests may need low-sodium or less flavorful dishes and some guests may require gluten-free or dairy-free options. Religious guidelines are important as well. Always ask your catering company about specialized menus so you can provide your guests with Halal and Kosher snacks for your office party.

1. Spinach and Artichoke Grilled Cheese

Spinach and artichokes put an adult spin on the traditional grilled cheese sandwich everyone knows and loves. Served with creamy tomato bisque for dipping, this vegetarian choice is sure to please the pickiest eaters.

2. Smoked Salmon Macaroons

Wow your guests with a savory twist on the typically sweet macaroon. With “everything” seasoning and lemon dill mascarpone, these office party snack ideas will be anything but bland.

As an added touch, port wine shallots round out each bite with a tangy-sweet burst of flavor.

3. Ahi Poke Tacos

Fish tacos or sushi? Why not both?

In this dish, tangy ponzu sauce offers a nice contrast to the fresh ahi poke. Meanwhile, the wasabi cream provides the heat everyone loves. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a final touch of Japanese flavor.

4. Chicken and Waffles

Chicken and waffles come together to offer comforting holiday snacks for your office party. Smooth maple syrup soaks into the crispy chicken and crunchy waffles with plenty of bacon for a perfect combination of savory and sweet flavors.

5. Lobster Mac n’ Cheese Bites

Your guests deserve the best. Treat them to a bite of luxury with some lobster mac n’ cheese. A truly decadent snack that’s sure to please, each bite includes garlic chive aioli for an extra burst of flavor and freshness.

6. Chicken Salad Cups

Chicken salad bites are perfect for keeping the atmosphere casual. Loaded with apples, cranberries, and walnuts, each chicken salad bite offers the perfect combination of creamy and crunch.

Diverging from the ordinary, a phyllo cup shell provides a buttery crispy finish your guests won’t be able to get enough of.

7. Mini Chicken Tinga Tostadas

Add some zing to your offsite corporate party with mini chicken tinga tostadas.

Each tostada boasts an authentic combination of perfectly seasoned chicken, smooth crema, tangy cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro. Flavor is anything but an afterthought.

8. Risotto Stuffed Mushrooms

A savory vegetarian option, risotto stuffed mushrooms are ideal for meeting dietary restrictions as well.

Spinach and artichokes add extra heartiness and flavor to the risotto. Meanwhile, sundried tomatoes provide a burst of color and taste to every bite. You can’t go wrong with risotto stuffed mushrooms at your offsite corporate party.

9. Honey Ricotta Crostini

Honey ricotta crostinis are the perfect office party snack ideas for combining savory and sweet tastes at your offsite corporate party. Creamy ricotta cheese atop crispy crostini will delight senses while sweet fig jam, honey, and poached pear add layers of flavor.

10. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

For savory vegetarian office party appetizers, you can’t go wrong with buffalo cauliflower bites. Crispy cooked to perfection and smothered in just the right amount of buffalo sauce, guests may not even realize it’s not chicken. Of course, any buffalo dish wouldn’t be complete without bleu cheese sauce for dipping.

11. Smoked Gouda Risotto Bites

Another excellent meatless choice, smoked gouda takes center stage to create a risotto bursting with creaminess and rich flavor. Tomato tapenade gives this dish a perfect amount of acidity while chives round out each bite with a fresh crunch.

12. Watermelon Skewers

Untraditional flavor combinations are all the rage right now, so watermelon skewers are sure to get people talking. Smooth honey goat cheese brilliantly complements the crunchy and juicy watermelon bites.

Meanwhile, mint and a balsamic blueberry reduction sauce add layers of flavor to this complex dish. Delicate pistachio dust adds a beautiful color contrast and a hint of flavor.

13. Mini Beef Sliders

Who can turn down a juicy slider? By dressing them up a bit, sweet caramelized onions and tangy sharp cheddar cheese top off each bite. Special truffle aioli makes sure these mini burgers are delicious and conversation-worthy.

It’s Never Too Early to Start Planning Your Holiday Offsite Corporate Party

A night to remember takes planning! For example, you want to have the best venue, entertainment, décor, invitations, libations, and catering.

Much more than a San Diego catering company, Personal Touch Dining can manage everything from dinner and chairs to décor in any theme to suit your offsite corporate party.

Start planning your holiday party with Personal Touch Dining today!

5 Tips to Create a Perfect Wedding Bar Menu

Perfect Wedding Bar Menu IdeasAt your wedding, the bar will most likely be one of the most popular destinations. So, to minimize waiting and maximize dancing, you’ll want to create the perfect wedding bar menu. Our Personal Touch Dining team has compiled a list of tips to help you create a stunning bar menu. With over 30 years of full-service San Diego wedding catering experience, we have insight into what your guests will want to see. Cheers to that!

Offer a Variety of Drink Options

The key to creating a perfect wedding bar menu is to offer many different drink options. Consider this: your grandmother is not likely drink the same thing as your Maid of Honor. You don’t have to offer everything under the sun, as your guests won’t expect this. Instead, make sure that you have all the bases covered.

At weddings, there are three main groups that you’ll want to account for. These groups are the non-drinkers, the light drinkers, and the partiers. To satisfy the non-drinkers, make sure that your bar menu offers fun options like soda or punch. For the light drinkers, wine or a champagne cocktail is a great option. And for the party crowd, make sure that you have an assortment of beer, cocktails, and liquor options.

Feature a Signature Drink at Your Wedding Bar

A great way to showcase your personality at your wedding is to offer a signature drink. Do you love martinis? Does your significant other only drink Whiskey & Coke? Consider creating two signature drinks, one for you and another for your partner! With two drinks, it’s a good idea to make one lighter and the other one stronger. And don’t forget to include a picture of your signature drink in your bar menu. This way, your guests will know exactly what they’re getting (and your bar menu will look beautiful).

Don’t Forget the Wine

At weddings, wine is extremely popular, as many people enjoy drinking it with dinner. You don’’t have to offer ten different types of wine, but make sure that you have the fundamentals. You’ll want to have a light, sweet option as well as a more robust, darker option. White wine like Pinot Gris is a great light choice, while red such as Cabernet Sauvignon can act as your full-bodied wine. Although it’s not a bar requirement, consider mixing in a rosé. This way, you’ll have both extremes, as well as something right in the middle.

Get Crafty with Your Beer

Your wedding bar menu is almost perfect, but what’s missing? The beer! Like wine, you’ll want to make sure that you have the basics. This includes offering a mix of both domestic and import beers. Everyone has their favorite beer, but one or two brands of domestic and one import will work just fine. If you’re a beer lover yourself, don’t be afraid to get creative! Mix in some local craft beers and IPAs to give your wedding a unique feel (and flavor).

Make Your Wedding Bar Menu Stand Out

Don’t let all your hard work go unnoticed! While it’s great to have the options listed above, they become obsolete if they’re not visible to your guests. So, after creating your bar menu, make sure that it’s set in a prominent location. Display the menu at the front of your bar so that your guests can see all your great, versatile drink options. And don’t forget to make a few copies to be passed around. This way, the bar line will move quickly and your guests will remain happy.

7 Tips for the Perfect LGBTQ Wedding

Tips for the perfect LGBTQ wedding
What does a San Diego LGBTQ wedding look like? This is completely up to interpretation –
 it’s your day! It can be as traditional or uniquely yours as you want it to be. Our team at Personal Touch dining is here to make your wedding day as special as possible. Follow our 7 tips below to ensure the perfect LGBTQ wedding.

Create a Detailed Plan

When preparing for a wedding, it’s necessary to create a detailed plan. Ideally, you’ll want to begin planning six months to one year before your big day. This way, you’ll have flexibility when choosing venue dates. This will help you minimize your overall stress level. Think about using Google calendar to keep track of important dates and appointments; it’s all about staying organized!
 
In your wedding plan, you’ll want to consider the venue type and the reception style. Do you want a venue that offers both outdoor and indoor seating? Are you looking for panoramic waterfront views or an idyllic countryside setting? Will your reception be small and intimate or large with plenty of room for dancing? It’s also important to make a detailed guest list. And don’t forget about the photographer and videographer! Planning upfront will help you to put all your must-haves in priority order, and you’ll be able to make better decisions. This will help your wedding run smoothly.

Have a Budget Determined

From catering to the venue to the color scheme, there are many options when it comes to throwing a wedding. Regardless of your budget size, it’s important to know how much money you have set aside for each service type. With a concrete budget, you’ll have funds in place to cover the fundamental services you need, as well as the little extra touches. However, you’ll still want to leave a little room to make adjustments. For example, if you see a décor option that is above budget level, but it brings the entire theme together, it may be worth the splurge. If you give yourself breathing room for these unexpected surprises, you’ll make the process easier.

Mix Up the Wedding Party

LGBTQ weddings often reinterpret tradition, and give new life and meaning to old customs. For example, the wedding party is the perfect time to be creative. You can have the most important people in your life included, and configure the wedding party any way you’d like. For same-sex marriages, don’t feel limited to a wedding party of all one gender. Or, do away with the wedding party all together! If you choose this route, don’t forget that you can still have your parents and best friends walk down the aisle. It’s your moment, so get creative and do what makes you happiest!

Get Creative with Your Ceremony and Reception

From large religious ceremonies to small, intimate family affairs, the ceremony is another opportunity to get creative. If you are a romantic, try writing your own vows to most accurately and passionately express your love to your partner. Or read a favorite book passage or poem that has specific meaning. Additionally, feel free to mix up the wedding attire. If you both want to deck out in formalwear, or something more tailored to your personalities, go for it.
 
The reception is also a chance to have fun and let loose. This may include time-tested traditions such as cake cutting, a dance with parents, or a bouquet toss. Or, you may have your own traditions that you want to start. If it’s a small group, go around the room and have people share memories of the two of you. If it’s a large party, why not have the DJ throw a dance contest? Either way, your guests will be thrilled to be involved in an interactive and engaging way.

Personalize Your LGBTQ Wedding

It’s always a great idea to have your wedding celebration reflect your personality as a couple. By infusing your sense of style and personal tastes, your wedding will stand out and be remembered by your guests. This can be anything from signature cocktails to an interactive photo booth with props from your travels together. If you put your heart into it, your event will be cohesive while highlighting your unique sensibility.

Showcase Your LGBTQ Pride

The theme of your wedding doesn’t need to be LGBTQ Pride, but don’t be afraid to incorporate it if you so choose. For example, consider making the inside of your cake rainbow. Or, use the color purple in strategic ways. Try using shades of purple for your linens or accents of lilac for your centerpieces. Additionally, think about incorporating rainbows into your attire. Try wearing a pride flag pin or holding a bouquet of multicolored flowers. Even further, consider reinforcing your LGBTQ pride with rainbow-colored wedding favors.

Enjoy the Day – It’s Yours!

At the end of the day, your wedding is yours to envision and enjoy. Plan, stay organized, and be creative, but don’t forget to have fun. Bring on wedding professional you trust who share a similar approach, and who will produce the ideal wedding day. Surround yourself with loved ones who bring positive energy, whether this means a small circle of close friends or a huge crowd. If you do what makes you happy, it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll have a blast on your wedding day.

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