Fundraising events can be an essential opportunity to make an impression on your organization’s donors, and potentially to gain new ones! You want to strike the right balance between warmth and professionalism, and good catering is at the heart of that.
In a city like New Orleans, where its culinary tradition is at the heart of its reputation, it is even more important that your food matches the expectations of attendees. It can truly be the difference between a memorable event that creates a feeling of connection and generosity, or a disappointing gathering that leaves donors uninspired. Smart organizations who depend on donor contributions know that catering should never be an ill-considered obligation. It is, in fact, prudent to foster ongoing relationships with your donors.
The Power of Good Food
The food sets the tone for any event, and you want to know you trust that your catering service will deliver. When donors walk into your fundraising event, they will form impressions right away. Beautifully presented hors d’ouevres and appetizers, such as shrimp remoulade or Creole eggplant stuffed mini peppers, will delight attendees from the first moments, and excite them for what else is to come. A raw bar is also sure to impress, and could feature raw oysters, seafood ceviche, or that New Orleans classic–Chargrilled Gulf oysters, with roasted garlic and herb butter. It will all serve to stoke their appetites for later, when they are served gumbo, dirty rice, and po’boys.
When donors taste genuine Louisiana flavors, they’re not just enjoying a meal, they’re experiencing New Orleans culture in a way that connects them emotionally to your local cause.
Knowing Your Donors and Their Tastes!
Successful catering of fundraising events needs to thoughtfully consider your donors themselves–centering their preferences and expectations. A good catering company will be flexible in presentation and options, even when they specialize in regional cuisine. Corporate sponsors attending a gala might expect a highly sophisticated presentation and premium ingredients, while community supporters at a casual gathering might prefer approachable comfort foods with local flair. Either way, the quality of the food should be top notch.
Quality catering companies work with various spending levels and preferences, allowing you to create a successful and suitable menu regardless of budget. You might consider offering a mix of more familiar, broadly satisfying foods and more unique specialty items. This approach ensures that all guests find something appealing while also giving them the chance to try something new. Introducing a guest to a food item they haven’t tried before is a surefire way to make your event memorable.
It’s important to accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences, as well, so that everyone feels included. In planning a menu, event organizers should be conscious of food allergies, vegetarian and vegan options, and other health considerations. A caterer experienced with diverse dietary needs can help you create an inclusive menu that makes every guest feel welcomed.
Showcasing New Orleans’ Excellent Culinary Heritage
New Orleans’ culinary tradition is legendary. Everywhere you go people either have a story to tell about food they ate in New Orleans, or a wish to visit for the first time. It’s a rich and long history, and an event with excellent food can tell that story.
Popular New Orleans items with a twist make great choices for fundraising events. Muffaletta canapés, alligator sausage with Crystal hot sauce aioli and pickled mirliton slaw, or our signature beignet bars each spark conversation among guests. The photo opportunities will abound, as well, creating social media posts where your organization’s name will spread further, and further reason your donors will look back fondly on the event.
Consider the storytelling potential of your menu choices. What you serve local cuisine doesn’t just feed your guests—it connects them to the community and culture that your organization serves. This emotional connection is sure to inspire deeper donor engagement and commitment.
Menu Planning for Maximum Effect
A successful fundraiser menu will also encourage networking and mingling. Passed appetizers during a cocktail hour works well, in that it allows guests to move around, meet people, and engage in conversations while enjoying bite-sized portions of local specialties.
For main courses, consider the logistics of your venue and the sequence of the event. Buffet-style service encourages further mingling, allowing your donors to reconnect or introduce themselves to other donors. This can create a sense of community. Plated and seated dinners naturally create a more formal atmosphere suitable for speeches and presentations, if that is an important part of the event. Family-style service offers a middle ground, creating an intimate table arrangement, while maintaining serving efficiency.
And don’t forget to end on a high note! Late-night beignets or dessert stations give guests a sweet finale to take away.
Breaking Bread and Building Lasting Relationships
Quality catering creates an atmosphere where authentic connection happens–conversations that transform casual attendees into committed supporters of your organization. When donors are enjoying the food and service, they will relax and be open to further engagement. If the food is no good, they might shut down and start thinking about when they can leave. A professional catering staff who are warm, patient and accommodating to all guests, even potentially difficult ones, are also essential to a successful event. At your fundraising event, the catering staff represents you, and it is important their work reflects well on your organization.
The shared experience of enjoying exceptional food creates bonds between donors and positive memories associated with your cause. These emotional connections often prove more powerful than statistics or presentations in motivating continued support and increased giving.
A Toast
Investing in exceptional catering for your New Orleans fundraising event isn’t a superfluous indulgence—it is a wise move to build donor relationships and ultimately advance your organization’s mission. Serving authentic, high-quality Louisiana cuisine in a warm and professional manner honors both your guests and your cause, and also gives your donors an experience to remember. Just like with any relationship, memories of having a wonderful time together serve as a foundation to continue building trust and goodwill. These are donor relationships that will benefit your organization for years to come.
Let Elysian Events Help Your Organization Create an Event to Remember
In a city where food is culture and hospitality is an art form, your organization needs a catering team that will rise to any occasion and exceed all expectations, creating meaningful connections with the donors who contribute to your important work. We guarantee you will find the perfect options to elevate your fundraising event in our extensive menu. For more information, please reach us through our contact form, or call (504) 541-0091.
