Ask the Expert: Catering Tips, Trends and Advice with Blackstone Caterers
Catering is one of the largest and most important investments that you will make for your wedding or special event. In this week's, "Ask the Expert", series, Shannon Driscoll, Senior Catering Sales Manager of Blackstone Caterers, will share all that you need to know to plan your dream dining experience.
Blackstone Caterers is a premier full service caterer based in Newport, Rhode Island. with nearly 65 years of weddings under their belt, they have helped thousands of clients plan an unforgettable dining experiences for events of all size. From gala events with 2,000 people to intimate cocktail parties in your own home, Blackstone Caterers is known for its exquisite food, spectacular presentation and unfailing service since 1945.
Recognized as the state’s "Best Catering Company" by RI Monthly and "Best Caterer" by Newport Life, Blackstone is privileged to be the perennial caterer of choice for the Newport Mansions and Rhode Island’s best parties. Thousands of banquets, balls, galas, meetings and conferences throughout Southern New England have been handled by Blackstone’s experienced team.
Whether a ballroom, boardroom or an intimate garden setting, allow Blackstone Caterers to make you the consummate host of your next event.
During this interview we'll discuss the following:
-What makes your team so unique?
- Are all Caterers created equal?
-What are the benefits of hiring a full-service caterer?
-What factors should you consider to determine if a caterer is right for you?
- Why is catering so expensive?
-What is staffing ratio? What's the industry standard and why is this important?
-How soon should you book your caterer?
-Why is it important to give an accurate guest count to your caterer ?
- What sustainability practices does your team implement?
- What are the benefits of having your wedding at a non-traditional venue?
- How do you determine what style of menu is right for you?
-What are some new trends that are popular in catering?
-How should you handle allergies and dietary restrictions?
-How do you anticipate COVID-19 will impact weddings?
-Any advice on how to structure your catering to provide a safer experience for your guests?
-Rhode Island's Governor, Governor Raimondo, suggested that larger events over 100 wont happen this summer. How do you suggest viewers navigate this?
Meet Shannon Driscoll, Senior Catering Sales Manager, Blackstone Caterers
Shannon has been in the events industry since 2007 and joined the Blackstone team in 2011. She graduated with a marketing degree from Providence College and has been immersed in the hospitality industry ever since. Shannon’s sunny disposition and upbeat attitude has made her a favorite with her brides and clients alike. Shannon focuses the majority of her events on weddings, but also has planned numerous corporate events, large galas, non-profits events and social gatherings. Shannon’s two favorite venues to host events in Newport are Rosecliff and Eisenhower House and counts summer as her favorite season. She enjoys spending her free time doing anything outside, working out and being with her daughter at home.