The Fall season has always been synonymous with joy, laughter, and the shared pleasure of good food among friends and family. With back-to-school, Labor Day, wedding celebrations, and intimate gatherings at the top of our minds, there is every reason to celebrate. In fact, according to People, over half of Americans chose Autumn as their favorite season. This past September in Orlando, a catering client of ours decided to take holiday celebrations to a whole new level, turning a traditional holiday party into an unforgettable experience. We worked hand in hand with our client to create a menu that boasted elevated barbecue and meticulously crafted charcuterie boards. This event was a sizzling success that left about 50 guests with memories to cherish throughout the season.
Setting the Stage
The event was held at the client’s charming home right outside Orlando. The ambiance was warm and inviting, with twinkling lights, seasonal decorations, and cozy seating arrangements that encouraged guests to mingle and savor the holiday spirit.
As guests arrived, they were greeted with a welcoming glass of mulled wine or sparkling cider, setting the tone for an evening of merriment and indulgence. The room was filled with laughter, chatter, the sound of clinking glasses, and the aroma of something delicious sizzling on the grill.
Elevated Barbecue: A Culinary Journey
With our unique and versatile catering services, we decided to put a unique twist on traditional barbecue. We created a menu that combines classic flavors with inventive culinary techniques.
The star of the show was a slow-cooked, succulent whole hog roast that had been prepared with care and attention to detail. The hog was marinated in a special blend of spices and sauces, then smoked to perfection over hickory wood, infusing it with a rich, smoky flavor. This is one of Chef Derrick’s specialties and did not disappoint!
Guests gathered around the barbecue station, with choices of smoked wings, barbecue pork, and all the fixings. We served the barbecue with an array of homemade sauces, from tangy Carolina mustard to sweet and spicy Kansas City BBQ, allowing each guest to customize their plate to their liking.
But the elevated barbecue experience didn’t stop there. We were sure to include all the “fixings” the was momma used to. This included coleslaw, buttered rolls, and baked beans.
For those who preferred something a bit lighter, there was a selection of fruits and vegetables, showcasing the best produce of the season. For more ideas on fruit and vegetable trays and other creative side dishes, read colorful crudities.
Charcuterie Boards: A Work of Art
While the barbecue station was a hit, the charcuterie boards stole the show with their artful presentation and diverse selection of cured meats and artisanal cheeses. Check out the video on our Instagram page! The catering team had carefully curated a selection of cheeses from around the world, including creamy Brie, nutty Gouda, and pungent blue cheese. These cheeses were paired with an assortment of house-made jams, honey, and freshly baked bread and crackers.
Complementing the cheeses was an array of cured meats, from thinly sliced prosciutto to smoky chorizo, all in a handheld cone for an additional touch of class. The charcuterie boards were adorned with fresh fruits, including ripe figs, juicy grapes, and slices of citrus, providing a sweet contrast to the savory meats and cheeses. The fruit displays really stole the show!
The attention to detail didn’t stop with the food. The boards themselves were works of art, handcrafted from reclaimed wood and adorned with fresh herbs and edible flowers. The presentation was so stunning that guests hesitated to disturb the arrangement, opting instead to snap photos to remember the moment
A Feast for the Senses
As the evening unfolded, it became clear that this holiday party was more than just a meal; it was a feast for the senses. The food truly tied the celebration together. The combination of the smoky aroma of barbecue, the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork, and the delicate notes of cheese and charcuterie created a symphony of tastes and smells that transported guests to a culinary paradise.
The atmosphere was further enhanced by live music and a delightful host that started the conversation between all the guests. Guests danced, laughed, and savored each bite, creating a sense of togetherness and celebration that embodied the true spirit of the holidays.
A Memorable Evening
As the night came to a close, and guests departed with satisfied smiles, it was clear that this holiday party had been a resounding success. The catering service had not only elevated traditional barbecue and charcuterie to an art form but had also created an experience that would be cherished as a treasured holiday memory. The perfect start to the Fall season!
For those in attendance, this event served as a reminder that the holidays are not just about the food we eat, but the moments we share with loved ones. In Orlando, our catering service helps turn those moments into something truly extraordinary. As guests left, they couldn’t help but look forward to the next party, asking the host “Where’s my invite for the next”! No matter the occasion, our culinary team is eager to turn your holiday party into a smashing success. For catering services in the Orlando, Port St Lucie, or West Palm area, use a trusted company such as The Well Kept Chef.
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