If you're in charge of planning the corporate holiday party of your company, one of your biggest areas of concern is most likely the menu. You'll need to come up with appetizers, meals or both to appeal to a wide range of people, making it seem like a daunting task. The good news is that there are several ways you can make the process easier.

When planning a corporate holiday event menu, consider any of the attendees' dietary concerns, restrictions, or food allergies, and provide alternative options to make sure everyone is satisfied. For instance, make sure there are plenty of meatless dishes for the vegan and vegetarians in the crowd, or dairy-free options for those with lactose intolerance. 

Since you'll most likely be feeding a large crowd, work with a professional catering company that specializes in corporate events for the best results. Because the party is during the busy holiday season, hire the caterers as far in advance as possible to ensure availability. Having a local restaurant cater the celebration is another idea. 

Here are some additional corporate catering tips and tricks to keep in mind:

1. Pick a Theme 

Even though you're planning a holiday party, you don't have to stick with a traditional Christmas theme. Get creative by choosing another fun theme that will pique guests' interests, and act as a starting point for planning the menu.

For instance, go with a lively luau-inspired menu filled with fresh dishes such as grilled pineapple and chicken or shrimp skewers, ahi tuna poke bowls, which attendees can assemble themselves, roasted pork, and macaroni salad. If you're serving alcohol, treat guests to signature drinks including mai tais and pina coladas. Include non-alcoholic versions if possible. 

Choose decorations that reflect the luau theme, such as grass table skirts and mini tiki bars, for a cohesive feel. Other corporate party theme ideas include winter wonderland, beach, and retro diner. 

2. Go with "Build-Your-Own" Bars 

Another fun and delicious way to keep party attendees engaged throughout the meal is by serving them via "build-your-own" bars. As an example, set up a taco bar by placing trays of hard and soft taco shells, seasoned ground beef, shredded cheese and lettuce, tomatoes, black olives, salsa, guacamole and sour cream on long, buffet-style tables. Guests can mix and mingle, and they create their perfect plates. 

Other "build-your-own" bar options include burritos, hamburgers, hotdogs, and even chili. Provide a mix of traditional and gourmet ingredients to make the meal memorable. 

If you need help, reach out to a catering company near you, such as The Phoenix Palate.