Tips for Planning the Perfect Corporate Catering Event in Los Angeles
Insights from Bianca Pereira, Catering Director at Alliance Hospitality Group
Planning a corporate event in Los Angeles requires equal parts of structure and flexibility. With busy schedules, diverse teams, and high expectations, catering decisions can directly influence how successful an event feels. Below, Bianca Pereira shares practical guidance drawn from more than 14 years of experience catering corporate events across Los Angeles.
Q: Why is locking in an accurate headcount so important?
Bianca: Every event should start with two things: budget and overall vision. Is this a quick working lunch, or a full-service event designed to impress? Once that’s clear, the headcount becomes critical.
An accurate guest count affects everything—food quantities, staffing levels, rentals, timing, and overall cost control. While we always lead with hospitality and do our best to accommodate last-minute changes, early and realistic headcounts help protect the client’s budget and reduce unnecessary waste. The sooner we have a solid estimate, the better we can recommend solutions that deliver a great experience without surprises.
Q: How should companies think about choosing the right cuisine?
Bianca: Los Angeles is incredibly diverse, and there’s a place for nearly every cuisine here. That said, the menu should always align with the tone and purpose of the event.
A casual team lunch doesn’t need the same approach as an executive dinner. At Alliance Hospitality Group, many of our catering concepts lean toward California-inspired cuisine: fresh, approachable, and flexible where we can scale menus up or down depending on the level of formality. The goal is balance: crowd-pleasing options that still feel thoughtful and appropriate for the setting.
Q: Dietary restrictions are more common than ever. How do you plan for them without overcomplicating the menu?
Bianca: It’s safe to assume that every group will include guests who are gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan. Those options should always be built into the menu from the start.
If the group is comfortable sharing dietary needs in advance, that’s helpful. If not, proactive planning is key. We recommend offering inclusive options by default and clearly labeling items so guests can make confident choices. For social or larger corporate events, don’t ask, just be prepared. There’s always a simple, thoughtful way to ensure everyone feels considered.
Q: How does event format influence the menu and guest experience?
Bianca: Event format plays a huge role in both menu design and flow. Since COVID, we’ve seen a significant increase in individually boxed meals, especially for office settings and daytime events.
Each format serves a purpose:
Buffets work well for casual environments, corporate lunches and encourage interaction.
Boxed meals offer efficiency and cost control.
Plated dinners feel more formal and are often best suited for restaurant settings rather than off-site catering.
For seated dinners or higher-end events, we often recommend hosting at one of our restaurant locations, where private dining rooms and full service hospitality are already in place.
Q: What’s the biggest mistake companies make when planning corporate catering?
Bianca: Not allowing enough time. Short timelines limit options, both for menu customization and service options. With proper notice, we can explore full-service staffing, passed hors d’oeuvres, custom menus, and smoother logistics.
When planning happens too close to the event date, those possibilities shrink. Time gives your catering team the opportunity to problem-solve, adjust, and ultimately deliver a more seamless experience.
Q: What does working with an experienced catering team change for the client?
Bianca: Experience means anticipation. A seasoned catering team doesn’t just execute; they guide. We help clients think through service style, menu pacing, staffing needs, and realistic timelines based on headcount and budget.
Clients bring the vision; our role is to translate that vision into something polished, efficient, and executable so the event feels effortless from start to finish, the key to success!
Final Advice for First-Time Corporate Event Planners
Start with your budget and service expectations. Decide what is non-negotiable and where you can be flexible. From there, trust an expert to guide the process.
Whether it’s a buffet, boxed lunches, or a more formal dining experience, the right catering partner will help you prioritize what matters most and set you up for success.
From early planning to flawless execution, thoughtful catering elevates any corporate event. With over 14 years of experience serving businesses across Los Angeles, our team understands how to balance great food, seamless service, and the realities of busy schedules.
Ready to plan your next event? Contact us today for a custom catering quote.