Food trucks are a hot trend in Minneapolis and St. Paul, especially now that we’re heading into the warmer months. Many of these food trucks offer catering for events, including corporate picnics. Here are five tips on how to incorporate a food truck—or a few food trucks!—at your next event.
- Plan Ahead
Not all venues can accommodate a food truck. The truck will need a place to park that is easy for your guests to access. It will also need an electric hookup to operate its kitchen.
Remember that food trucks serve wonderful food, but don’t come with tables and chairs. When you’re planning your event, pick a venue with picnic tables or be prepared to supply places for your guests to sit and eat. You’ll also want guests to have access to restrooms and shelter if the weather turns sour.
- Set a Food Budget
Once you’ve found the perfect venue, it’s time to set a budget for food. This will help you narrow down the search for the perfect food truck for your event. Consider whether your organization will foot the entire bill or if you’ll ask your guests to pay for some or all of their meals.
To determine your budget, you’ll need a rough headcount of your guests. Remember to share this number with the food truck company so it can prepare accordingly. Be sure to ask if extras, such as condiments and sides, are included in the price.
- Book Your Food Truck
Once you have a budget and a venue, it’s time to book your food truck. One truck may be enough for your group, but if you’re expecting a large turnout, it may be smart to book two or more. The types of food available are as numerous as the number of food trucks in the Twin Cities. Burgers and fries, tacos, pizza, kebabs, Indian, Italian, and cupcakes are just a few of your options. Start your search online at mspfoodtrucks.com.
- Decide on Activities
Booking a food truck or food trucks for your catering will help set a casual, festive mood for your event. If your guests are foodies, the cuisine alone may be enough to keep them entertained. But for most guests, you’ll want to have some activities planned in advance.
Consider having a yard game tournament to entertain your guests. Croquet, lawn bowling, horseshoes, bocce, ladder ball, and cornhole are all fun and easy to set up and manage.
- Spread the Word
Once you have your location, truck, and activities nailed down, it’s time to send out invitations. Highlight the food truck or trucks you’ve booked and let guests know the event is casual. If you’re serving alcohol, decide whether your event will be for adults only or if the whole family is invited.
Summer is a great time to show your appreciation for your employees. To get started on your next corporate event, contact Do Good Events today.