The Best, Most Brilliant Buffets

Summer's end is nearing, and that means that calmer days are coming. And when caterers aren't beyond busy all day every day, they are constantly finding ways to elevate their services.

Taking your catering to the next level doesn't have to be difficult; in fact, changing some of the simplest things makes a difference, like upping your buffet game. Over 40% of caterers in our 2015 survey said that their most popular service style was the buffet, so imagine what creating a truly awesome buffet could do.

Browse these photos for ideas and inspiration from ICA caterers on making the best buffets.

1. Create a feast for the eyes

Photo Credit: Sugar Beach Events

The best buffets have a "good combination of height, symmetry and color," said Lee Anderson, chef and owner of Sugar Beach Events in Maui. 

Photo Credit: Sugar Beach Events

"Props and decor, when the budget allows, will always make a nice buffet look extraordinary," Anderson said.

2. Connect with the guests

Photo Credit:  Kathy G. & Company

"Having a chef custom create a dish for your guests is very personal, and when you have a staff that is personable, it is a perfect match for your client," said Anderson. She added that "people also like the 'wow.'"

3. Design with snacking in mind

Photo Credit:  Kathy G. & Company

Kathy G. Mezrano, president of Kathy G. & Company in Birmingham, Alabama, said that "easy access and availability" is an important part of every buffet. 

Photo Credit:  Kathy G. & Company

Mezrano explained, "We use this modular design quite often, especially for large groups. Guests can be literally in and out of this buffet design."

4. Be creative, but match look to taste

Photo Credit: Lon Lane’s Inspired Occasions

We are all for innovation, but make sure your guests still know what they're looking at, and more importantly, what they're tasting!

Photo Credit: Lon Lane’s Inspired Occasions

Lon Lane, president of Lon Lane's Inspired Occasions in Kansas City, stressed that "recognizable food and beautiful serving pieces that fit the item being served" are very important when creating a buffet.

With these few things in mind and inspiration from the stunning displays above, we encourage you to go forth and create some truly innovative (and delicious!) buffets.

Sugar Beach Events, Kathy G. & Company and Lon Lane's Inspired Occasions are proud members of the ICA. To learn more about the ICA, visit http://www.internationalcaterers.org.