Tips on Crafting a Local Farm-to-Table Menu for Your Next Event

  • By Jessica Elmore
  • •
  • 03 Mar, 2017
  • •
Picking a farm-to-table menu is a great way to ensure that the food at your next event is sustainable, supports the local economy, and reflects the culture of wherever your event is taking place.

However, putting together a completely local menu may present some challenges. Here are some tips for making it happen:

Find out what’s regional and in season 

Before you even get started crafting your menu, it’s a good idea to do some research about the foods produced near your event. Seasonality is equally important. For example, you might be dreaming of peach tarts for your Georgia gathering. If the event is happening in April, however, those peaches won’t be ripe yet. Keep an open mind and prepare to be inspired by available local food offerings.

Visit a farmers market

Nothing enlivens the senses and spurs the culinary imagination like a trip to a farmers market. Visit often and get to know the farmers. If your event is a season or two away, ask them about what produce will be available. The farmers market isn’t all about produce though. You should also talk to farmers who raise animals. Local farms are more likely to produce meat using sustainable practices that privilege animal welfare.

Get inspired

Is there a restaurant near your event location that specializes in farm-to-table or local cuisine? If so, go eat there and sample a few dishes. The chef probably creates combinations of local foods that you never considered. Talking to the general manager can also provide you with valuable connections. Ask if the restaurant caters events, or if there is a catering company they prefer to work with.

Farm-to-table is more than food

Depending on your location, you can also source “extras” like flowers and beverages through local farmers. When you visit the farmers market, be on the look-out for flower stalls. Many flower farmers are skilled florists who can make beautiful arrangements for your event with the flowers they grow. You also might consider having drinks provided by a local winery or micro-brewery to enhance your fresh, seasonal menu.

Of course, if you don’t live or work in the area where your event is taking place, all of these tips might seem impossible. But you don’t have to give up on holding a farm-to-table event just because you’re not a “local.” Hiring an experienced event planner, particularly one that specializes in eco-friendly events, means you can serve a farm-to-table menu that will delight your guests and benefit the planet. elm Planning is just the company to help you make it happen, contact us today.

How Does the Pilot Shortage Affect Your Travels?

By Jessica Elmore • July 20, 2022

During the pandemic, thousands of pilots were offered early retirement packages in order to cut labor bills due to the lack of travel demand. Now that travel for pleasure and business is rebounding from the pandemic, approximately 14,000 flights in the US were recently cancelled or delayed due to the lack of pilots, carriers, and other staff.

Meet our newest edition to the elm Planning/nest Event Rentals team!

By Jessica Elmore • August 24, 2020
We are beyond excited to introduce our newest member to the elm team. Get to know, Claire O'Brien, our Program Coordinator/Event Designer.

The Future of Meetings and Events Post Coronavirus 

By Jessica Elmore • June 18, 2020
Now that gatherings are reconvening, it’s crucial for event and meeting planners to properly convey their reaction and implementation of changes regarding their events.

How Hotels are Ensuring Health and Safety in Response to COVID-19

By Jessica Elmore • May 13, 2020
Hotels are revamping their cleaning measures to restore customer confidence and bring guests back to their properties.

Airlines Efforts to Make Flying Safer 

By Jessica Elmore • April 29, 2020
In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, airlines are stepping up their efforts to provide a safe and healthy environment for crews and passengers before takeoff and after landing.

Ways the Travel Industry is Giving Back During COVID-19 

By Jessica Elmore • April 14, 2020
The coronavirus outbreak has dealt the hospitality and travel industry a huge blow. Here's how companies are stepping up and providing aid during these unprecedented times.

Traveling Smart 

By Jessica Elmore • March 10, 2020
Coronavirus has those traveling on edge. In order to protect yourself, you need to be aware of the virus, adhere to travel advisories, avoid impacted areas and exercise preventive measures.

Looking Back at 2019

By Jessica Elmore • January 6, 2020
Elm has had a busy 2019. Take a look to see what we've been up to this year.

How to Keep Common Travel Ailments from Ruining Your Trip

By Jessica Elmore • November 14, 2018
Traveling does not have to make you sick - if you take simple precautions then you have a good chance of staying, and coming home, healthy.

The Evolution of the Ever-Changing Airplane Seat Continues

By Jessica Elmore • October 10, 2018
Airlines are constantly creating ways to save space and maximize passenger counts. The airplane seat is ever-changing and that's not about to stop now.
More Posts