Why You Should Have Your Family Reunion Catered
Family reunions are some of the most meaningful, memorable, and complex events a family may share. Among the seemingly infinite moving parts of a family reunion, food may be the hardest to plan and execute.
How do you find time to...
- expertly plan and shop for the meals?
- please every palate?
- meet the needs of every special diet?
- provide assurance of a quality menu?
- know how to maintain food safety?
- determine correct quantities so there is neither waste, nor the possibility of anyone going hungry?
- deliver on time?
- create beautiful presentations?
- flexibly improvise when the unexpected occurs?
- bring tables, linens, chairs and décor suitable for the venue?
- ensure professional wait service?
- break down + clean up thoroughly?
...and still be a guest at your own reunion, spending quality time with relatives you may not have seen for a long time? The answer is hire the professionals. Caterers do this every day and every night. It is our passion, and we are dedicated to making every event a successful one.
The point of a family reunion is to bring family together to enjoy each other. It's not possible to play dual roles of relaxed guest and focused worker simultaneously. Ideally, all family members are participating equally, with no one member bearing inordinate responsibility. Reunions do not come around every day. Make it as carefree and enjoyable as possible. Don't turn your Family Reunion into a amily Reion? What is that? Family Reunion without the F , the U, or the N!
Cater Your Family Reunion with Us
From family reunions filled with hundreds of family members to smaller, more casual reunions, BG Events and Catering is here to make it a memorable one. Our staff has years of experience providing families with delicious entrées, appetizers, and decadent desserts. What better way to reminisce with the family than over professionally cooked cuisine made with local and seasonal ingredients? Our expert chefs will work with you to ensure we have something prepared for even the pickiest of eaters.
Of course, we can't forget about cocktails! Enjoy a summery drink filled with fresh, locally grown fruit and during the holidays, indulge in a beverage with a hint of peppermint or cinnamon. Let your imagination run wild and we'll concoct the perfect cuisine and drinks for your next family reunion in Boston. Give us a call today at (617) 581-1150 to learn more about our catering services in Boston!
A Breakdown of Traditional Anniversary Colors
Happy Anniversary! We say this all the time, but, did you know that there are official colors correlated with each anniversary year? This helps us festively mark the milestone of a given passage of time.
These colors can be used in gifts, decorations, invitations, lighting, food, drink, linens, favors, and flowers, or any party planning you desire. The season during which you were married will also dictate how you incorporate color into your celebration. In the spring and summer, for instance, certain flowers, bushes, and trees are blooming. You can identify the color literally on an object, or figuratively as part of a theme, (Blue Skies, Out of the Blue, Men in Blue, Blue Pencil, Bolt from the Blue, Blue Blood, Blue Ribbon, Once in a Blue Moon, Blue Collar, Green Thumb, Green Light, Grass is Always Greener, Silver Spoon, Silver Screen, Silver Platter, Golden Opportunity, Red Light, Roll out the Red Carpet, Paint the Town Red, Red Hot, Rose Colored Glasses, Tickled Pink, White Elephant, Black Tie, Black as Night, Pitch Black, In the Black, Dark Colors, Flying Colors, True Colors, etc.) You can use the color of your particular anniversary year, or, multiples of your anniversary year, or, even every color of every year you've marked.
The official color designations are:
- 1st Anniversary: Gold or Yellow
- 2nd Anniversary: Red or Linen White
- 3rd Anniversary: White or Jade Green
- 4th Anniversary: Blue or Green
- 5th Anniversary: Blue, Pink, or Turquoise
- 6th Anniversary: Purple, Turquoise, or White
- 7th Anniversary: Onyx, Yellow, or Off White
- 8th Anniversary: Tourmaline, Tanzanite, or Bronze
- 9th Anniversary: Lapis Lazuli, Purple, Green, or Terracotta
- 10th Anniversary: Silver or Blue
- 11th Anniversary: Turquoise or Yellow
- 12th Anniversary: Jade, Opal, or Oyster White
- 13th Anniversary: Citrine or White
- 14th Anniversary: Opal or Ivory
- 15th Anniversary: Ruby Red
- 16th Anniversary: Emerald Green, Red, or Silver
- 17th Anniversary: Yellow
- 18th Anniversary: Blue
- 19th Anniversary: Bronze
- 20th Anniversary: Emerald Green or White
- 21st Anniversary: Orange
- 22nd Anniversary: Green
- 23rd Anniversary: Silver
- 24th Anniversary: Lavender
- 25th Anniversary : Silver
- 30th Anniversary: Green
- 35th Anniversary: Coral
- 40th Anniversary: Ruby Red
- 45th Anniversary: Sapphire Red
- 50th Anniversary: Gold
- 55th Anniversary: Emerald Green
- 60th Anniversary: Diamond White
- 65th Anniversary: Sky Blue
- 70th Anniversary: Platinum
- 75th Anniversary: Diamond White
- 80th Anniversary: Ruby Red
Contact BG Events and Catering to Plan Your Anniversary
Let us make your anniversary a memorable one. Whether it's your 2nd or your 80th, our team is here to cater delicious entrees and desserts, hire entertainment, create gorgeous floral centerpieces and so much more. Let us take the hassle out of planning your special day! For an absolutely one-of-a-kind experience, opt to customize your menu using fresh, local ingredients from the Boston community. We'll help you choose floral arrangements that tie perfectly into your color scheme as well as lighting to set the mood.
Should I Hire a Professional Photographer for My Baby Shower?
A baby shower is one of the most joyously anticipated celebrations you will ever experience. It is a milestone marking the beginning of a family's evolution, of a couple's new relationship to each other, of an individual's new role as parent, and as the first record of the baby when he or she was a twinkle in his or her parents' eyes. The close friends and cherished family members in attendance at a baby shower are there to cheer on the pregnant mom and dad.
Baby showers are fun with good food, drink, games, and decorations. They are typically planned with great care and thematic creativity, with an eye to exactly what the mother-to-be likes. As such, we want to catch this all as it unfolds as accurately and artfully as possible. Your guests are not at the shower to work. They are important members of the family's inner circle. No one wants to say, "No" to the parents-to-be when they ask, "Would you mind taking photos?" But, the reality is a) it's a big responsibility, and b) how can you be a participant when you are an observer? Guests are there to share in a collective welcome to the community, if not to the baby itself exactly, then, at least, to the idea of the baby, and certainly to the parents-to-be. Let your guests be guests.
The Benefits of Hiring a Professional Photographer for Your Baby Shower
Don't leave the photography to anyone but a professional. These photos are the basis for quality memories. A professional photographer will capture candid photos, without bias, and with artistic flair and a unique interpretation. Further, you will have the assurance that after the baby shower, there will be framable pictures.
Perfect Lighting & Poses
A professional baby shower photographer has the ability to create high-quality photos using state-of-the-art equipment and finding the right lighting. Making the necessary adjustment and editing the photos will go a long way, and this is something that should only be left to a professional. Photographers understand that these memories cannot be relived which is why they are thoroughly prepared the take photos that will last a lifetime. Although many are privy to taking photos on a smartphone, professional photographers truly know the ins and outs of photography.
What Do Professional Photographers Capture During a Baby Shower?
While a professional photographer will of course take breathtaking photos of the mom-to-be as well as smiling friends and family, there are plenty of other photo opportunities.
- Party Favors: From delicious baked goods to ornate drawstring bags filled with goodies, even the little things should be captured.
- Games & Decor: A baby shower isn't complete without pastel colored decorations and plenty of games for guests.
- Invitations: Most invitations take a significant amount of planning which means they deserve a nice snapshot!
- Behind the Scenes: You can remember all the effort that was put into the big day with a few photos from the setup.
- Food & Drink: Whether catered or home cooked, food is always a focus at any party.
BG's Top Picks for Entertaining Summer Event Venues in Boston
How beautiful is Boston in the summertime? From the bay to Fenway, the entire area is a real treat in the summer months. Summertime is also the height of the outdoor event season. The community comes to life with all types of memorable events, from elegant and modern weddings to sophisticated corporate gatherings and more.We've put together a list of our top summer event venues in Boston. When it comes to entertaining, we have something for everyone and for every type of event you can conceive. Hopefully, our list here can bring some clarity to your planning process and help find the right venue for you.
The Waterworks Museum
Location
The Waterworks Museum is located only about 10 minutes from the Chestnut Hill Mall. It is five minutes east of the Boston College football stadium and just south of the Chestnut Hill Reservoir off of Beacon St.History
Built in 1887 to keep up with the city's rapid growth and water needs, it houses enormous pumping engines that operated up until the 1970s. The site has since become a popular rustic wedding venue with ceremony sites on the outside steps or the interior. The industrial, blue-collar aura really complements its guests’ ambitions.What makes the Waterworks Museum perfect for your summer event?
Summer events at the museum (and in particular, summer weddings) mean that guests and couples can enjoy the perk of getting married or taking pictures on the steps outside. The museum opens its large back doors to allow fresh air into the space and blend the indoor/outdoor aesthetics. Of course, the awe-inspiring view of the reservoir across the street makes for a gorgeous photographic backdrop.Charles River Museum
Location
The Charles River Museum is located just off the banks of the Charles River, south of Waltham City Hall down Elm Street.History
The members of the Waltham community established the museum in 1980 to give a clearer historical account of the city’s rich, industrial blue-collar heritage. At a later date, the museum was renamed the Charles River Museum of Industry and Innovation.What makes the Charles River Museum perfect for your summer event?
Summer weddings at the museum are visually memorable for couples and guests because the setting seamlessly incorporates the river backdrop and greenway so well. When the weather is nice, a ceremony just off the banks is a truly beautiful site. The space can then be transitioned into a spirited cocktail hour spot where guests can celebrate!90FS
Location
Located in the heart of Boston's financial district, 90FS is a 38-story office tower with tenants such as AON, J.P. Morgan and U.S. Bank.History
The tower was completed in 1976, exuding modernity and sophistication at its finest. It features a rentable area of 1,118,355 square feet and a below-grade, two-story parking garage.What makes 90FS perfect for your summer event?
90FS excels as a summer venue because of its spatial versatility and visual aesthetic. The interior includes amazing glass windows and conference areas that set the stage for an elegant dinner party or corporate fundraiser. There is also a newly renovated open air garden with a reflection pool that overlooks the Boston skyline. Wedding ceremonies have included outdoor bars, lounge areas and dance floors with guest seating inside. The lighting and view of the surrounding towers is one of the most uniquely breathtaking visual effects of any Boston area venue we know. If you're looking to achieve an unparalleled feeling of sophistication and class, 90FS is absolutely your venue of choice.Boston Society of Architects (BSA)
Location
The Boston Society of Architects is located literally right off the water, just south of the harborwalk and on Congress St. heading west over the bridge past the Tea Party Museum.History
Established in 1867, the BSA is committed to showcasing and amplifying great design and architectural appreciation throughout the Boston community.What makes BSA perfect for your summer event?
is venue has plenty of room for guests to move around and create a fun, food-loving atmosphere for any event. It's a very sociable setting that—with its adjacency to the water—provides a picturesque backdrop for wedding photos or corporate functions. As a caterer, it’s a fantastic space for creativity to flourish. At select events, we've furnished the back areas with a pretzel station and complemented the front with hot pots and black cauldrons. BSA is a versatile event space that really brings out the best in our team.There you have it—our top picks for summertime Boston event venues. Each of these four locations provides a special setting for the kind of wedding, corporate event or social gathering you're dreaming of throwing this summer. But it doesn't stop there. Our expert planners and catering team have furnished several event spaces around our beautiful community in new and inventive ways each time. We love the opportunity to make memories at each of these spaces and certainly look forward to doing it for you. Give us a call at 617.581.1150 or contact us online to start planning your amazing Boston summertime event.More articles you might enjoy:
Top 3 Menu Ideas for Home Parties
Whether you are throwing a cocktail party for your closest friends or inviting your neighbors to an open house, offer a tasty menu that flows nicely with the energy in the room. We suggest having a selection of small bites and finger foods—a prime catalyst for mixing and mingling!Let us take you through the Boston home party menu. These little servings of nutrient-packed food will not only satisfy guests’ hunger but also inspire their creativity!
Innovative Menu Ideas for Boston Parties
The best catering companies in Boston know where to source the finest ingredients and how to transform them into a piece of art. And our talented chefs want to share some of their favorite creations with you.Welcome with Fresh Seasonal Appetizers
You know what they say about first impressions, so make sure the first morsel guests enjoy is a brilliant one. Look for foods with explosive flavors and the freshest ingredients. For example, a simple chicken roulade can be spiced up with cumin zereshk-scented rice stuffing and lemon sauce.To make sure your small bites are bursting with as much flavor and as many nutrients as possible, we also suggest using plenty of seasonal farmed vegetables. Guests will suspect you handpicked the ingredients in these healthy passed appetizers:- Fried butternut squash ravioli
- Saffron chickpeas with roasted tomatoes, cucumber, fennel, red onion and sherry vinegar
- Brie and green apple crostini with fig jam and arugula
- Scallion pancakes with vegetables
- Butternut squash soup shooters
Entice with Creative Vignettes
Vignettes are a great place to set up impressive food displays where guests can craft their own favorite dishes. Try a sushi bar, winter pies or rice bar, or deck out a contemporary vignette with beautiful small dishes like:- Parmesan flan with local and seasonal wild mushroom ragu and micro salad
- Ras al hanout sous vide salmon with lentils, kale and saffron parsnips
- Smoking sirloin, root vegetable hash and cherry gremolata
Engage with Action Stations
Your parents probably told you not to play with your food, but come on, have a little fun with your Boston catering. Our friendly chefs love to greet guests and help them design a plate exactly to their liking.Our action stations are anything but ordinary. How about some Moroccan spice-encrusted tuna from the carving station? Or maybe you would like to top your pasta with Prosciutto di Parma? Anything you can dream up, from pot au feu to a smoking station, we can put into action.Action stations are also a great way to bring your culture to life. In the comfort of your own home, let our chefs honor your favorite cuisine. Our Boston catering team loves to create custom menus based on your family favorites.Check out these multicultural action station ideas:- Irish martini mashed potato bar: truffled mashed potatoes, blue cheese mashed potatoes, mashed sweet potatoes, garlic cheddar mashed Yukon gold potatoes
- Asian station: suckling pig with hoisin sauce and flat buns, wok street noodles with scallions and bok choy, vegetable dumplings
- Taco station: grilled mahi, smoked beef brisket, shredded chicken and cilantro lime-roasted veggie tacos
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Take a Walk Through a Top Boston Bar Mitzvah
We had so much fun welcoming more than 100 guests to this traditional bar mitzvah at a beautiful Brookline synagogue. Having overcome some unexpected challenges, our Boston catering team and simcha specialists are especially proud of how this May 2014 celebration came together.Take a look at how we honored Jewish traditions and family values in a wonderful series of events filled with delicious food, memorable ceremonies and plenty of fun.
Filling a Boston Bar Mitzvah with Jewish Tradition
When you compare Boston catering companies for your big event, you are probably looking for one that can handle everything from lighting to dining. This ensures that your event flows flawlessly. Working closely with the client to understand her vision, we planned a fun and meaningful series of events.Friday Night Candelabras Lighting and Persian Cuisine
The celebration of becoming a man began with an elegant Friday evening dinner. Guests were greeted by a stunning display of candles among deep mossy greens. The traditional lighting of candelabras and blessings on wine and challah led up to a wonderful Persian dinner.Guests started their meal with perfectly seared salmon with pomegranate essence on mesclun salad with pomegranate dressing. We then served a family-style dinner, featuring these flavorful Persian dishes:- Khoresh sabzi
- Chicken roulade: with cumin zereshk-scented rice stuffing and lemon sauce
- Shirin polov
- Basmati rice with saffron
We also made sure that the Boston bar mitzvah venue was thoughtfully set up so that the event would run flawlessly and in line with Jewish tradition. For example, a washing station outside the tent provided guests the ability to conveniently wash before eating.But we all know that it is attention to the smallest details that really brings an event together. From napkins bound with guests’ names to a menu that honors the mother’s love of food and her husband’s Persian heritage, we personalized the whole dining experience to this family. This commitment to Jewish traditions and family favorites also shined bright in the desserts, like Persian pistachio pareve ice cream, and drinks such as Persian cardamom tea.Saturday Morning Kiddish
On Saturday morning, the entire community had the opportunity to join in the celebration and enjoy our fine cuisine. After the parents came down from the synagogue’s prayer service and the rabbi made a blessing over the wine, guests were invited to help themselves to some healthy and refreshing food at the kiddish.The motif was designed with the mother’s love of crisp, clean lines and rich fabrics in mind. Among a joyful color scheme of white, green and blue, guests found these exceptionally prepared and plated fish:- Grilled salmon with pearl couscous salad, olives, grape tomatoes, cucumber and oregano dressing
- Curry grilled halibut with heart of palm taboule
We also prepared these five salads, so everyone was sure to find something they love:- Faro salad with fresh corn, spring peas, basil and lemon vinaigrette
- Saffron chickpeas with roasted tomatoes, cucumber, fennel, red onion and sherry vinegar
- Mixed greens with sweetened cranberries, roasted almonds and balsamic vinaigrette
- Sesame noodle salad
- Fruit salad
Sabbath Day Luncheon in Boston
At 2 p.m., close family and friends continued to treat themselves to our delicious food. In the tent, we set up a buffet-style lunch with open seating for adults. We wanted this meal to be family-style to encourage guests to mix and mingle. And what better way to enable parents to relax and socialize than by giving them a break from the kids? Candy jars designated the tables for kids, and they went straight to them!In addition to having another chance at the drinks, salads and petite pastries that we featured at kiddish, guests found challah rolls, roasted turkey and chilled sliced London broil. Most people were pretty full from kiddish, but still, nobody could resist the lunch buffet!
Saturday Night Melava Malka
Around 9 p.m., guests came downstairs in anticipation of a great meal. It was our challenge not to disappoint them while respecting that our chefs could not begin to cook until 8:58 pm. This is because it would be disrespectful for our professional chefs to perform their work on the Sabbath. With over 180 people to serve and customs to honor, we were more than up for the challenge! Despite rain and limited time to transform the bar mitzvah venue, we set up a captivating and satisfying Boston Bar mitzvah. We even put together a Harry Potter-themed tent just for the kids while adults enjoyed a more modern chic experience inside the synagogue.Early in the evening, TV monitors and creative food displays enticed guests to try these fun foods:- Fried fish and chips in a bamboo cone
- Sushi bar
- Sushi "cocktail" of marinated salmon, avocado, soy glaze, jalapeno relish and sushi rice
We also set up a spectacular display of small plates and salads in cauldrons. Some crowd favorites were:- Chilled Thai noodle boxes
- Blueberry green salad
- Grecian quinoa
- Toasted barley with shitake mushroom
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Kosher Style Catering for Your Boston Bar Mitzvah
BG works closely with the top Boston bar mitzvah venues and vendors to ensure that your beautiful celebration honors the Jewish tradition. Kosher style cuisine coupled with the careful guidance of a simcha specialist offer an unparalleled value to the Jewish Boston community. Working with a catering company that coordinates everything from your bar mitzvah décor to rentals will save you time and money.In this post, we share popular bar mitzvah menu and venue ideas to help you celebrate this important milestone with excitement and respect for Jewish traditions.
Symbolic Bar Mitzvah Food
This special meal celebrates a man or woman coming of age into greater responsibility. We can help you customize a kosher style bar mitzvah menu that suits your personal tastes and demonstrates your commitment to the Jewish traditions.How to Design a Kosher style Bar Mitzvah Menu
Couple the finest drinks and most decadent kosher style dishes to treat guests to a lavish array of fine cuisine and meaningful customs. Working with a Boston catering company known for innovative food displays and the most professional servers will ensure your Boston bar mitzvah runs smoothly from cocktail hour through dessert.Boston Bar Mitzvah Cocktail Hour Ideas
We are incredibly proud to offer Boston’s premier bartending service. Our fully licensed bartending team sets the standard for the most customized professional drink service. Our selection of sommelier-chosen wines and finely crafted cocktails are a favorite at any Boston event.When choosing bar mitzvah drinks, keep guests of all ages in mind. An adult cocktail hour likely features chilled champagnes and sparkling water with refreshing berries. We already have a lot of requests for health-inspired drinks—a top 2016 food trend. And be sure the kids also have plenty of fun and refreshing beverage options. They will be excited to find a virgin bar with fresh juices and mock-tinis.In addition to a wide array of fruits, smoked fish and gourmet cheeses, treat your guests to some of our favorite appetizers, like potato latkes topped with salmon, crème fraiche and caviar.Other top bar mitzvah hors d’oeuvres ideas include:- Salmon Cakes
- Mini Beef Wellington
- Hummus Sampler with Toasted Pita
Chef-Attended Bar Mitzvah Food Stations
Let friendly and skilled professionals serve up fun, delicious entrées. You are sure to impress guests with kosher style versions of these incredibly popular interactive food stations:- Martini Mashed Potato Bar: Customize this celebratory innovative offering to highlight your favorite potatoes and toppings alongside traditionally popular ones, like Yukon gold potatoes with sautéed mushrooms.
- Carving Station: Few can resist our premium meats cooked to perfection. Roasted beef tenderloin with a side of fire-grilled asparagus is a perfect celebratory entrée.
- Pasta Station: Guests have fun playing chef as they choose from a variety of pastas, gourmet sauces and toppings like roasted garlic, spring peas and grilled chicken strips.
Bar Mitzvah Plated Entrees
Skilled chefs can put a unique twist on traditional favorites. One of our top picks is the stuffed chicken breasts. Depending on the season, you may try an apple and raspberry or sun-dried tomato and black olive filling. Homemade matzo ball soup and wild mushroom soup will perfectly complement this fine bar mitzvah entrée.Fun Bar Mitzvah Desserts
The traditional Torah cake from the candle-lighting ceremony is always a favorite bar mitzvah dessert. But we also recommend setting up a dessert buffet that offers a wide array of kosher style visions of our ever-popular small indulgences. Guests love to grab these bite-size desserts while they socialize.You can also hype the party with an interactive dessert station. Chocolate fountains and sundae stations are a big hit among guests of all ages. If lots of children will be attending, consider a carnival theme. When you give away carnival treats as prizes at the booths, your dessert and entertainment will all be wrapped up in one!Top Boston Bar Mitzvah Venues
There is a lot to keep in mind when choosing among kosher style Boston venues. Look for a classy event space that complements your lavish celebration. Also keep in mind your guest count and whether you will need a separate room for the adult and kid’s cocktail hours. From a temple to an estate, our seasoned event planners share their favorite Boston bar mitzvah venues.Temples and Synagogues
Look for a temple with a social hall that matches your event vision and expected guest count. Also keep in mind your event date. A conservative synagogue welcomes guests with the utmost respect and warmth, but keep in mind that it will not allow music or electricity during Shabbat.Although a temple is the most traditional bar mitzvah venue, your big celebration can be innovative in design and cuisine. Jori’s hockey-themed bar mitzvah at Temple Beth Avodah showcased BG’s creative lighting and food displays. “Jori’s Penalty Box” food station added a fun and personalized touch to the celebration. You can take this bar mitzvah theme the extra mile by creating an arena and kiosks with food and tickets for guests to “purchase.”Museums
BG designers love to bring their artistic flair and modern style to historic Boston museums. Some of our favorite locations that inspire creativity and passion among guests are:- Charles River Museum of Industry & Innovation: Dating back to the 19th-century textile mill, this historic Waltham venue is best known for its stunning views of the Charles River and plenty of room for up to 180 guests to dine and dance.
- deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum: You will never forget a cocktail hour on the Rappaport Roof Terrace overlooking a pond and the sculpture park. This unique space is a great option for more intimate bar mitzvahs in Boston.
State House or Estate
Your bar mitzvah photos are sure to have beautiful backdrops at one of Boston’s historic State Houses or stunning estates. Two of the most notable and stunning Boston landmarks available for private rentals are:- Old State House: Hosting a bar mitzvah in the magnificent restored historic rooms of the Old State House is one more way you can show your commitment to good works and Boston pride. Rental proceeds benefit the Bostonian Society, dedicated to preserving and sharing Boston’s history.
- The Endicott Estate: This vast space is ideal for bar mitzvahs with large guest counts and out-of-town guests. 15 acres and conveniently located hotels place no limits on your Boston bar mitzvah vision.
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Unique Birthday Party Ideas
Whether you are hosting your own or planning a surprise, Boston birthday parties are a great chance to flaunt your hosting expertise and have a truly great time. It doesn’t matter if you’re planning a 40th birthday party or any age above or below; there is always a perfect party theme and perfect place to celebrate. We gathered some of the best themes and ideas, and with a little inspiration from our Boston birthday party guide, you can make this fete flawless!
Places to Host a Boston Birthday Party
First of all, before the décor, before the menu, and before every other detail, you need the perfect venue. A great venue already sets the celebration up for success, so choose wisely! Here are some non-traditional birthday party venues that are sure to entertain your guests.- Boat bashes - if your guest list is small enough, a boat can be a perfect venue. It is intimate, fun and something special to really signify the celebration.
- Make the space the entertainment - Boston is home to a plethora of amazing, unique venues. Take full advantage of this by hosting your party in an already entertaining environment, like the cool, icy world of Frost Ice Loft.
- Classic house parties - sometimes it is best not to mess with a good thing. If a house party fits your laid-back group of friends, then make it the best!
Adult Birthday Party Themes
So you know where your party is going to be, but what’s going to make it unique? Themes are what make birthday parties memorable and special, and we have found some of the best!- Throwback to the old days - sure, you are getting older, but you have a lot of party left in you! Reminisce and show the kids how it’s done with a throwback party. Celebrate in the theme of whatever decade your crowd likes best, from the ‘60s to the ‘90s—it all works!
- Menu idea: Have a favorite childhood treat? Turn it into a classy dessert! Likewise, transform your favorite drink into a cool cocktail.
- Casino night - the high-stakes thrill without the big-money bets! Casino parties are a fun way of celebrating in friendly (or not-so-friendly!) competition. Play for money or raffle items, gift cards or even treats.
- Menu idea: Handheld bites are best when playing games, so gather inspiration from these hors d’oeurves and petite desserts.
- “Wig out” party - this theme is for the young-at-heart; everyone wears a crazy wig to the party—and an eccentric outfit to match, of course. You will be giggling and flaunting your new ‘do the entire night.
- Menu idea: Think creative and exotic when planning this menu; the theme is already so innovative, you will want cuisine to match! Try something like a martini mashed potato bar.
- College revelries - college students are legendary party hosts, though maybe in a slightly different way. But one more night of undergrad fun might be just the thing for your friends. A keg, plenty of drinking games and general lightheartedness are a must for this theme.
- Menu idea: Upgrade your favorite college junk foods! Crunchy, salty snacks like potato chips are great for crusting chicken and fish.
- For 50th birthday parties - this theme is for a narrower group, but it is a good one! For those planning a 50th birthday party, a ‘50s theme is a creative and fun idea. You missed out on the ‘50s, after all, with the greasers, hot rods, poodle skirts and more! These iconic symbols are excellent inspiration for an entertaining time.
- Menu idea: Did you know that this decade popularized both deviled eggs and the cheese ball? Also, slider hamburgers were created in the ‘50s, though for this theme, presentation is essential.
More Tips for Hosting Birthday Parties
Now that you have browsed some venues and themes for your celebration, it is time to solidify some details for that 30th, 40th or 50th birthday party (or whichever birthday is approaching). Here are some things to consider in the planning process.- Serve a wide variety of drinks - while you certainly should have fun with your signature drink or alcoholic beverages, be sure to include something for the crowd who have little ones at home! Non-alcoholic drinks can be just as exciting as the alcoholic ones when you have the right recipe or the right bartender.
- Decorate as needed - of course décor is important, but you need only include a few touches: colored cutlery and plates, banners, balloons, confetti—anything works. While Pinterest can provide many ideas, you can also personalize your menu, and it works to make the atmosphere festive and reinforce the theme as much as hours of decoration.
- Use your resources - planning an adult birthday party can be complex, but it does not have to be! There are many resources out there to help and plenty of people willing to lend a hand. Divide up the work, make it a group project or even call on the experts to make this party what it should be most of all—fun.
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Boston Wedding Anniversary Ideas
If you have doubts about hosting a wedding anniversary party, remember that celebrating with friends and family who helped nurture your relationship throughout the years will show your appreciation for their support. Everyone who attends will leave with that warm, fuzzy feeling to pass on to his or her own family. So throw away the doubt and get started planning your love celebration!Here we have described traditional wedding anniversary themes for certain milestone years, and we have also listed some ideas to consider when planning and hosting at your favorite Boston venue.
Traditional Wedding Anniversary Themes
Your wedding anniversary is a celebration that represents your unique style. Small, intimate occasions work well for some, while others prefer a grand party. Luckily, a big city like Boston has a venue and catering team to help you with whatever style you choose.These themes draw on the traditional wedding anniversary gifts and flowers of medieval Germanic Europe as we implement the beauty and fragrance of each into the party theme décor.10-Year Wedding Anniversary—“Tin” Years Strong
Representing your flexibility and adaptability, tin or aluminum is the material used to symbolize a 10th wedding anniversary. Celebrate how far you’ve grown as a couple and set your sights on the next ten years. Use brushed or hammered aluminum in picture frames, plate charges or flower vases.
We recommend using daffodils, the 10-year anniversary flower, to make gorgeous yellow and white arrangements that accentuate the aluminum flare of the vase!Our professional servers can pass appetizers on a shiny, modern tray stacked with balsamic figs wrapped in prosciutto and stuffed with goat cheese served with balsamic reduction. Picture the couple of honor greeting people at the door with, “Welcome to our 10th wedding anniversary, where we’d like to treat you to delicious food and hugs of joy!”Shining Silver at the 25-Year Wedding Anniversary
After 25 years, you’ve made it—now is your time to shine! Break out the silver passed down on your wedding day and get ready to celebrate through multiple generations. Contemporary trends lend a hand to silver accents, and you will be able to find décor like these amazing items:- Gorgeous silver pillows
- Silver lighting fixtures
- Silver mirrors surrounding pictures of the couple
Incorporate the traditional iris flower into your 25th wedding anniversary party to complete the theme.Why not pop the bubbly for the 25th? Our staff can pass champagne among guests or pour it right before the toast at dinner. We can also have our fully licensed bartenders serve your choice of a custom signature cocktail, top-shelf liquor, fine wine and craft beer.“Heart of the Oyster” for the 30-Year Wedding Anniversary
After three decades of marriage, we encourage you to celebrate in high style using the traditionally gifted item, the pearl, as the heart of your décor. Decorate with pearl accents throughout your wedding anniversary party using these fun ideas:- Pearl beads in the bottom of glass flower vases or candle votives
- Pearl decorations added to life-size metallic letters
- Pearl-colored tablecloths on the catered food tables
The couple of honor could wear the 30-year wedding anniversary flower, the sweet pea, in their corsage and boutonniere, complemented with the lady’s pearl earrings and a gown with pearls sown into it.This majestic pearl and sweet pea theme will pair with a raw bar featuring oysters, a decadent carving station where our chefs will grill lobster tail poached in butter and complete the dinner with your choices of grilled sides like asparagus with tarragon béarnaise.Glitter with Gold for your 50-Year Wedding Anniversary
Be a king and queen for your special evening. Any couple with the married-for-50-years status will appreciate feeling like royalty among friends and family—as they should! The traditional theme for the 50th wedding anniversary incorporates gold metallic tones in party décor in these modern, luxurious ways:- Gold crowns for the couple of honor!
- Embossed gold furniture
- Gold glass string lights around the food service tables and the seats for the couple
Violets are the traditional 50th wedding anniversary flower; their deep purple color will highlight the golden accents throughout your Boston venue.Finish the evening with embossed gold desserts—what a delicious and beautiful way to end a glorious evening of celebrating love!You can find traditional wedding anniversary gift-giving ideas for every year here. Then simply apply the material to create a gorgeous party full of romanticism, inspiration and glorious memories.If you are looking for an expert catering team in Boston to help you plan and host your wedding anniversary love celebration, contact us. If you aren’t sure if we’re good fit for your needs, we invite you to explore past events on our blog!More Articles You'll Also Like:
Tips for Hosting a House Party in Boston
You finally set up your apartment or home in Boston just the way you like it. The décor, the paint and furniture—they are all perfect! Now you would love to share it with your friends or family for a fun evening of celebrating life, love and happiness. But how do you even begin to plan for such a big night?If this scenario sounds familiar, you came to the right place. We have some simple hostess tips to help you plan and execute a Boston home party that will exceed your own expectations. With a little inspiration from our catering team and expert event planners, you and your guests can enjoy scrumptious food, conversation and long-lasting memories of a night spent at home!
Tips for Inviting Guests to Your Home Party
The company you invite is just as important as the food you serve. Our smart tips will help you with this first step towards a successful home party.- Send hand-written invitations on custom stationery. This is the old-school way of doing things, but what an oh-so-charming and delightful item for guests to receive in the mail!
- Add an RSVP to your personalized invitations, leaving enough space for guests to include individual dietary restrictions or other notes to the host.
- Ask close friends to arrive early. Having some help preparing the tables and décor will ease stress on you as the hostess and add an opportunity for a little fun before the real party begins.
- Brainstorm through your Boston network. Find acquaintances to introduce to your core group of friends and family. Having a bright new personality could spice up the usual conversation and possibly lead to new friendships. If this is a work-related party, maybe consider inviting a Boston VIP!
Tips to Dress Up Your House Party
As a great hostess, you probably have a piece of pottery or serving plate that doubles as a collector’s item neatly tucked away in your cabinet. Having a party at your beautiful Boston home is the ideal time to use it! Any food you serve will look exquisite if placed on a serving plate that shows your personal style.We’ve also thought of some other ways to style your party that will make guests feel like kings and queens for the night!- Stylish serving plates can be scattered on the hors d’oeuvre table, nonchalantly impressing guests and willing them to try the delectable bites you’ve prepared.
- Hostess tip: If you plan to hire a caterer for your Boston home party, find inspiration from our online sample hors’ d’oeuvres menu.
- Silver flatware will make guests feel particularly special! If you have a treasured collection, place enough forks, knives and spoons on a beautiful serving plate, allowing guests to serve themselves. For a more formal approach to a home party, set the table ahead of time with your freshly shined silverware.
- Glassware and napkins are both decorative and functional. Trendy glassware and seasonal or modern prints on your napkins add class to your Boston home party and double as tabletop décor!
- Hostess tip: Two glasses per person will be enough to cover a variety of beverages, and two or three small and large napkins for each guest will suffice for appetizers and main dishes.
- Other home party décor will add some extra flair. Bring out the candles, set the tone with chill background music, turn on all of your mood lights—it’s a celebration, and your house deserves to look good!
Tips for Serving Beverages at Your Boston House Party
Make the flow into your party easy for guests by guiding them to the collection of refreshments. Use some of these ideas to impress them with your creativity.- Non-alcoholic drinks like pre-made homemade ginger ale, Italian sodas or a fruity sparkling virgin punch can look classy in a glass carafe!
- Hostess tip: We suggest 1 8-oz specialty drink per guest. Also consider having bottles of bubbly water on hand, as not everyone will want a sweet drink.
- Wines—the traditional dinner party staple! Have guests serve themselves, or a bartender can help make the evening flow flawlessly.
- Hostess tip: One bottle should serve 2 people per hour.
- Signature cocktails also have a place at your Boston home party. Talk with our catering team to plan one that defines your personal style or party theme.
- Champagne to host a toast requires one glass per person.
- Hostess tip: One 750ml bottle of champagne serves 6 people.
Tips for Serving Irresistible Food at Your Party at Home in Boston
Our premier Boston catering company is always ready and willing to help you prepare the most scrumptious set of hors d’oeuvres and main dishes. If you prefer to take on some of the dishes yourself, these suggestions will help.- Make the main dish beforehand. After simply heating it up in the oven, you will not only make the house smell AMAZING but also create time for yourself to mingle instead of laboring in the kitchen.
- Serve a familiar dish. Do not stray from your usual specialty. A new idea on Pinterest may seem like a smart move, but it’s safer to stick to what you know when hosting a large number of guests.
- Hostess tip: Encourage a close friend to help you with the clean-up. It’s a good way to decompress and have some treasured one-on-one time after the big crowd leaves.