How to Organise Catering for a Large Corporate Event (100+ Guests)

How to Organise Catering for a Large Corporate Event (100+ Guests)

Catering a large corporate event is logistically complex — but it doesn't have to be stressful. Whether it's a conference, product launch, awards dinner, or annual general meeting, this guide walks you through the process step by step.

Step 1: Define the Event Format

Your catering needs depend entirely on the event format:

• Working lunch — quick, efficient, eaten at tables or desks. Boxed or buffet.
• Networking reception — canapés and finger food, eaten standing
• Seated dinner — formal, plated or served from stations
• All-day conference — morning refreshments, lunch buffet, afternoon snacks

Step 2: Calculate Quantities

Professional caterers work in portions per head. For a 100-guest buffet:

• 4–5 pieces of starter per person
• 250g of main course per person
• 150g of rice/bread per person
• 1 dessert portion per person (if included)

Step 3: Choose Your Caterer Wisely

For corporate events, your caterer must provide:

1. Food Hygiene Rating of 5
2. Full 14-allergen documentation (legal requirement)
3. public liability cover
4. References from other corporate clients
5. Flexible delivery and setup times

Step 4: Manage Dietary Requirements

Corporate events increasingly require multiple dietary options. Indian catering naturally accommodates this — vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, and nut-free options are all standard in a well-planned Indian menu.

Jaflong Corporate Catering

We've catered 100+ corporate events across South West London — from 20-person board meetings to 300-person conferences. Our corporate catering starts from £15 per head with full allergen documentation, delivery, setup, and collection included. Request a corporate catering quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

What areas do you cover?

Jaflong Catering is based in Richmond (TW10) and covers Richmond upon Thames, Kingston upon Thames, Twickenham, Teddington, Surbiton, Hampton, New Malden, Sheen and Wimbledon. Delivery is free within 10 miles; a small fee applies between 10 and 20 miles.

How much does catering cost per person?

Our packages start from £15 per head (Essential buffet), £22 per head (Classic) and £35 per head (Premium multi-course). Final pricing depends on guest count, menu choices and service style — request your bespoke catering quote for an exact figure.

Is your catering halal?

Yes. All our meat is sourced from trusted suppliers providing halal-certified products, and we can cater fully halal events including Nikah, Mehndi, Walimah, Eid and Aqiqah occasions. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are clearly marked on the explore our full Indian & Bangladeshi catering menu.

How far in advance should I book?

For weddings and events over 100 guests we recommend booking 6–12 weeks ahead. For smaller parties 2–3 weeks is usually enough, and we regularly accept last-minute bookings within 48 hours where capacity allows.

Do you offer tastings?

Yes — tastings are available by appointment for weddings and larger events. Ask about a tasting when you send us your event details for a personalised catering quote and we'll arrange a convenient slot at our Richmond kitchen.