Venues
Venue catering vs External catering: The Pros and Cons
Written by
Joe Dodwell
Venue Partnerships Manager
Joe is Togather's Venue expert. Initially onboarding all of our venue partners, Joe's long-lasting relationships with some of the UK's best-hidden gems and iconic venues now mean Togather customers find exceptional event spaces which tick all of their boxes.
Joe's dedication to staying ahead of the curve keeps him at the forefront of the event industry, allowing him to identify and partner with the latest and most exciting venues. You'll find Joe at the latest restaurant or venue opening, chatting away to the owner, or tucking into the newest foodie trend.
Published on Thu 1 January 1970
Food is a massive part of what makes an event a success. Choosing between catering provided by a venue in house vs sourcing your own for your staff party can significantly impact the vibe of your event. Each option has its charms and challenges.
Pros of external catering:
Supporting small businesses: Opting for an external catering can enable you to support support a local business. It's a great way to give back.
Bespoke Menus: Tailor your food to the exact tastes and preferences of your team. You won't have to settle for an 'off-the-shelf' menu that doesn't quite fit what you were looking for.
Uniqueness: You could pick a caterer that can offer that special element, making the food the star of the show.
Cons of external catering:
Corkage and Costs: Be mindful of potential corkage fees and additional costs that many venues charge. Fortunately, Togather is on the preferred supplier lists with many of our venues, so we can facilitate external catering, without the additional costs.
Venue Compatibility: Always check if your chosen venue can accommodate external catering, to avoid last-minute hiccups.
Pros of venue catering:
Ease and Efficiency: With catering provided by the venue itself, you're working with a team that's already in sync with the venue’s facilities.
Reliable Choices: Typically, venues have a curated list of suppliers or in-house options, ensuring quality and reliability.
Cons of venue catering:
Less Flexibility: You'll likely find there's less room for customisation outside of the venue's existing packages or preferred suppliers.
So what?
In choosing between internal and external catering for your staff party, consider what matters most for your event: the ease and familiarity of internal catering or the customised, unique experience offered by external caterers. Whatever you decide, the goal is to celebrate and create a sense of togetherness. If you're still looking for a venue or catering for your event, you're in the right place. Tell us about your event and we'd be happy to connect you with some of the country's finest!