Pulling off a flawless event

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOTV) - When planning a dinner event – whether it’s a wedding reception, anniversary party, or business function – you want to create a memorable evening for your guests that moves along flawlessly. In the hundreds of dinner functions I have helped plan, I have guided clients through the concerns they might have – like making sure the event doesn’t drag on too long, that courses are served promptly, and that speakers are able to keep the guests’ attention for a presentation.

I have found that there are a few simple choices you can make ahead of time to make sure your event moves along smoothly, and also has personal touches to help you or your company’s personality shine through.

One idea is to have a couple of pre-selected cocktails setting out or handed to guests as they arrive. This can be the bride and groom’s favorite cocktail, or a drink that fits your event’s theme. A passed drink immediately creates a fun and relaxed atmosphere, and saves time on taking the first drink order.

Another time-saving strategy is to select the first couple of courses for your guests. At Cygnus 27, we typically serve a four-course meal for private dining events, and having the first two courses decided upon ahead of time always helps to expedite dinner service.  Two popular options are the Coconut Shrimp and Asian Slaw. As guests enjoy these first two courses, servers have the opportunity to take orders for the last two courses and the Chef has ample time to prepare them.

For the last two courses, guests can select from a few options so they are still able to customize their dining experience. The third course options might include Filet of Beef, Salmon, or Scallops. Once orders are taken and guests have their first or second course to enjoy, this creates the perfect opportunity to make a presentation or share a few words with guests.

For dessert, you might allow guests to choose from a couple of popular desserts, or you can select our dessert trio so that they are able to experience a few flavors to top off their meal.

Do you have an upcoming business function, wedding rehearsal dinner, anniversary party, or other special event? I would be happy to guide you through the decisions to make sure your dinner event goes off flawlessly in one of our private dining rooms at Cygnus 27. Please call me to learn more about the private dining options in our Sky 1 and Sky 2 rooms at 616-774-2000 ext. 6121 or via email at Cygnus27@amwaygrand.com .