In Pictures: The Opening Night Party

Catersource + The Special Event may seem like a distant memory for some, while for others it seems like we were just in Anaheim last week. To help get you excited for next year's event (happening March 27-30 in Orlando) lets take a look back at the Opening Night Party! Who knows! Maybe you'll even find some inspiration for your own events. 

And keep an eye out for the 2023 agenda in the next few months! 

All photos courtesy WASIO Photography

Canned wine and cocktails are making a major play behind the bar at events because of their convenience and simplicity. You don't have to trade in presention for convenience though, display bottled versions (or the cans themselves) on innovative shelving. 

Colette's Catering & Events served up a trio of small-plates at its chef station during the Opening Night Party (held at the Muckenthaler Cultural Center) including a Baja Ba (purple corn flour Tortillas, shredded cabbage slaw, crema, cilantro lime dressing, chipotle aioli, pickled red onion, and cotija cheese); braised short ribs (with Yukon mash, roasted shallot, and micro chive); and elote bowls (grilled esquites, cotija, crema, avocado, garlic aioli, cilantro, pickled onions, green onion, tajin, hot sauce, and lime).

Welcome your guests to your event with some style by having a red carpet (bonus point if it's a dress worn by a performer).

Nostalgic eats are all the rage in 2022, such as freshly made mini donuts.

Tasting and sample bars have proven popular at events and can be a great way for guests to move around a space. Tasting bars could be a great solution to the same-old cocktail hour. 

Pre-batching your signature cocktails can save your bartenders a lot of time, while still giving them a chance to show off their skills.

A major trend in outdoor events is to bring the indoors outside by setting comfortable furniture for guests to enjoy.

Welcome guests to your event with a simple acoustic guitar. It's a simple and elegant addition that instantly sets the mood for guests.

Truffle honey ricotta with caramelized pear, mustard seeds, flaky brioche crumb, and micro arugula 

Sticky Pork Belly Skewer (Hamachi tartare with white soy onion, purple potato chip, avocado mousse, micro cilantro, house furikake, and shiso leaf).

Infused waters are a delcious and colorful way to keep guests hydrated. Have a specific color scheme? Find fruits of the same color!