Corporate Picnic Events with Mobile Bar Hire and Catering

Planning a corporate event that’ll knock everyone’s socks off? Well, you’ve come to the right place! As someone who’s organised more corporate shindigs than I care to count, I can tell you that the secret sauce to a memorable event is all in the details. And two of the most crucial ingredients? Bar hire London and top-notch catering. Trust me, nothing gets colleagues bonding faster than a well-mixed cocktail and a platter of delicious nibbles!

Now, you might be thinking, “Mobile cocktail bar London? Vegetarian party platters? Is that really necessary for a corporate event?” Absolutely! Gone are the days of stuffy, formal corporate gatherings. Today’s workforce craves experiences, and that’s exactly what these elements bring to the table. So, let’s dive in and explore how you can transform your next corporate picnic from mundane to magnificent!

The Magic of Mobile Bar Hire for Corporate Events

Let’s kick things off with bar hire. Picture this: a sleek, professional bar set up right in the middle of your picnic area, with expert bartenders whipping up everything from classic cocktails to bespoke creations. Sounds pretty great, doesn’t it?

Why Choose Bar Hire for Your Corporate Picnic?

1. Professionalism: A hired bar looks polished and adds a touch of class to your event.
2. Convenience: No need to worry about stocking up on drinks or equipment.
3. Variety: Professional bars often offer a wide range of drinks and cocktails.
4. Expert Service: Trained bartenders ensure your colleagues are well taken care of.

I remember organising a summer picnic for a tech start-up last year. We hired a mobile bar, and it was an absolute hit! The cocktails were flowing, and before we knew it, the CEO was chatting with the interns like old friends. Talk about breaking down hierarchical barriers!

Types of Bar Hire Options in London

When it comes to bar hire in London, you’ve got options. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Mobile Bars: Perfect for outdoor events, these can be set up anywhere.
• LED Bars: Add a bit of pizzazz with illuminated bars.
• Themed Bars: Great for adding a specific vibe to your event.
• Cocktail Bars: Ideal if you want to offer a range of fancy drinks.

Personally, I’m a fan of the LED bars. They look fantastic as the sun goes down and really add to the atmosphere of an evening event.

The Benefits of Professional Bartenders

Now, let’s talk about the unsung heroes of bar hire: the bartenders. These pros can really elevate your corporate event. Here’s why:

1. Skill: Professional bartenders know their stuff. They can whip up complex cocktails in no time.
2. Efficiency: No long queues at the bar – these pros know how to keep things moving.
3. Knowledge: Got a colleague who doesn’t know what they want? A good bartender can recommend the perfect drink.
4. Presentation: It’s not just about the taste – professional bartenders make drinks that look as good as they taste.

I once hired a mobile cocktail bar in London for a company anniversary party. The bartenders were doing flair bartending, and it became a real talking point of the event. Nothing like a bit of cocktail juggling to break the ice!

Catering for Corporate Picnics: More Than Just Sandwiches

Now, let’s shift gears and talk about catering. Gone are the days of sad sandwich platters and stale crisps. Modern corporate catering is all about variety, quality, and catering to different dietary needs.

Why Vegetarian Party Platters are a Game-Changer

Let’s talk about vegetarian party platters. You might be thinking, “But what about the meat-eaters?” Trust me, a well-crafted vegetarian platter can win over even the most dedicated carnivore. Here’s why they’re great:

1. Inclusivity: Caters to vegetarians, vegans, and meat-eaters alike.
2. Health Factor: Often packed with nutritious options.
3. Variety: From grilled veggies to gourmet cheeses, the options are endless.
4. Colour: Vegetarian platters are often visually stunning.

I once catered a corporate event with an entirely vegetarian menu. The feedback? “We didn’t even miss the meat!” Now that’s a win in my book.

Elements of Great Corporate Picnic Catering

So, what goes into great picnic catering for a corporate event? Here are some key elements:

• Variety: A mix of hot and cold options.
• Dietary Considerations: Options for vegetarians, vegans, gluten-free, etc.
• Easy to Eat: Finger foods and items that don’t require cutlery.
• Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality produce makes all the difference.
• Presentation: Food that looks good tastes even better.

Personally, I’m a big fan of interactive food stations. They get people moving around and mingling, which is great for team building.

Catering Options for Your Corporate Picnic

When it comes to picnic catering for corporate events, you’ve got plenty of options:

1. Traditional Picnic Fare: Sandwiches, salads, and finger foods.
2. Gourmet Picnics: Think artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and fancy pastries.
3. Themed Picnics: How about a Mediterranean spread or a British afternoon tea?
4. Dietary-Specific Options: Catering for vegans, vegetarians, or gluten-free guests.

I once organised a corporate picnic with a “street food” theme. We had different food trucks serving cuisine from around the world. It was a massive hit and really got people talking!

Combining Bar Hire and Catering: The Ultimate Corporate Event Experience

Now, here’s where the magic really happens – combining bar hire with top-notch catering. It’s like fish and chips – great on their own, but even better together!

Why It Works

1. Cohesive Experience: Your drinks and food setup match in quality and style.
2. Convenience: Everything is taken care of in one go.
3. Wow Factor: It’s unexpected and impressive.
4. Flexibility: Works for various types of corporate events and group sizes.

I’ve organised several corporate events combining these services, and let me tell you, the feedback is always stellar. It’s not something people expect from a work event, which makes it all the more special.

Perfect Corporate Events for Bar Hire and Picnic Catering

Wondering when to use this combo? Here are some ideas:

• Summer Parties: Perfect for outdoor celebrations.
• Team Building Days: Create a relaxed atmosphere for bonding.
• Product Launches: Impress clients and stakeholders.
• Company Milestones: Celebrate achievements in style.

I once used this combo for a company’s 10th anniversary celebration. The mix of gourmet picnic food and craft cocktails created such a festive atmosphere – it felt more like a festival than a work event!

Planning Your Corporate Picnic: Tips and Tricks

Alright, so you’re sold on the idea of bar hire and picnic catering for your corporate event. Great choice! But where do you start? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.

Choosing the Right Providers

First things first, you need to find the right providers. Here’s what to look for:

1. Experience: How long have they been in business?
2. Reviews: What are past clients saying?
3. Range of Services: Can they provide everything you need?
4. Flexibility: Are they willing to customize their offerings?
5. Price: Does it fit your budget?

Pro tip: Don’t just go for the cheapest option. Sometimes, spending a bit more can make a world of difference in quality and service.

Timing is Everything

When should you book these services? Here’s my advice:

• For peak season (summer months), book at least 3-4 months in advance.
• For off-peak times, 1-2 months should suffice.
• For large corporate events, the earlier the better – 6 months to a year isn’t uncommon.

I once left booking to the last minute and ended up scrambling to find available providers. Trust me, save yourself the stress and book early!

Customization is Key

One of the best things about bar hire and catering services is the ability to customize. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want! Some ideas:

• Signature Cocktails: Work with the bartenders to create drinks that match your company branding.
• Themed Food Stations: Going for a specific look? Communicate this with your caterer.
• Special Dietary Requirements: Make sure your catering can accommodate all your employees.

I once organised an event for a tech company where we created cocktails named after their products. It was a fun way to incorporate the company’s identity into the event.

The Environmental Angle: Sustainable Corporate Events

In today’s world, we can’t ignore the environmental impact of our events. The good news? Many bar hire and catering services are leading the charge in sustainability.

Eco-Friendly Options

Look for providers who offer:

1. Reusable or Biodegradable Tableware: Say goodbye to single-use plastics.
2. Local and Seasonal Food: Reduces carbon footprint and supports local businesses.
3. Waste Management Plans: Proper recycling and composting systems.
4. Energy-Efficient Equipment: For example, LED bars use less energy.

I’m particularly passionate about this aspect. At my last corporate event, we used a company that provided bamboo cutlery and plates made from fallen palm leaves. Not only were they eco-friendly, but they looked fantastic too!

The Cost Factor: Budgeting for Bar Hire and Catering

Now, let’s talk money. Yes, hiring these services is an investment, but it doesn’t have to break the bank.

Typical Costs

Here’s a rough guide to what you might expect to pay:

Service	Approximate Cost (£)
Bar Hire	300-1000 per day
Bartender Hire	150-300 per bartender
Catering	15-50 per person

Remember, these are just estimates. Prices can vary widely depending on your specific requirements and location.

Tips for Saving Money

Want to keep costs down? Try these tips:

1. Off-Peak Booking: Prices are often lower outside of summer months.
2. Package Deals: Some companies offer discounts if you book multiple services.
3. BYO Alcohol: This can significantly reduce bar costs.
4. Limit the Bar Menu: Offering a few select drinks instead of a full bar can save money.

I’ve used all of these tricks at various events. My favorite? The limited bar menu. It not only saves money but also adds a touch of sophistication to have a few carefully chosen signature drinks.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

After all this, you might be wondering, “Is it really worth hiring these services for a corporate event?” In my experience, absolutely yes.

Here’s why:

1. Stress Reduction: Let the professionals handle the details while you focus on your team.
2. Impressive Results: Your colleagues will be wowed by the professional setup.
3. Memorable Experience: It’s these special touches that people remember long after the event.
4. Team Building: Shared experiences like this can really boost team morale.

I’ve organised corporate events both with and without these services, and the difference is night and day. The events with professional bar hire and catering always run smoother and get more positive feedback from attendees.

So, there you have it – everything you need to know about bar hire London, mobile cocktail bars in London, and vegetarian party platters for your corporate picnic. Whether you’re planning a small team outing or a large company-wide event, these services can take your gathering from ordinary to extraordinary.

Remember, corporate events are about more than just ticking a box. They’re opportunities to build relationships, boost morale, and create lasting memories. So why not do it in style? With a professional bar and top-notch catering, you’re not just serving food and drinks – you’re creating an experience your team will be talking about for months to come.

Now, who’s ready to start planning the corporate event of the year?