Looking for budget-friendly Christmas catering options? The festive season nearly is upon us, and it’s time to start planning your Toowoomba Christmas party! We’ve begun roasting turkey, stocking up on rum (for cooking, of course), testing cherry shortbread recipes, and slicing leg ham.
The first Christmas catering orders have already kicked off, and the juggling act has begun. So, how can you make your Toowoomba Christmas party easier, without breaking the bank, and ensure you and your guests have a joyful time together? We’ve got you covered with these top tips:
1. Venue matters
Choosing the right venue can significantly impact your Christmas party budget. You don’t necessarily have to book a restaurant or stay confined to the office. Consider these affordable options in Toowoomba:
- Laurel Bank Park: This charming location offers hall and croquet club rentals, along with play equipment and beautiful gardens.
- Queens Park: Enjoy play equipment and picturesque surroundings.
- Middle Ridge Park (Stenner Street): Rent the tennis courts and take advantage of the nearby kids’ playgrounds.
- Newtown Rose Gardens (Taylor Street): Another excellent choice with a hall for hire and stunning surroundings.
2. Timing is everything
Selecting the right date for your Christmas party can impact your budget. Consider hosting your event earlier or later in the season:
- Last Weeks of November: Many people start winding down for the holidays or are still in the planning phase.
- Late January: After the Christmas rush, you can find more affordable options.
3. Get creative with meal times
Explore various times of the day to host your Christmas event. Be creative with your schedule:
- Christmas Brunch: A delightful morning celebration.
- Late Lunch: A cost-effective alternative to a full dinner.
- Twilight Picnic: Enjoy the beauty of the evening with a picnic-style gathering.
4. Pre-planning is key
If you’re thinking about booking a venue, do so in September or early October. This way, you’ll have more options for venues, dates, times, and caterers. Some venues even book out a year in advance, so the earlier the better!
5. Choose a “Drop and Run” style caterer
Keeping your catering costs down can be achieved by opting for a “drop and run” style of catering (e.g. us!!). Less on-site service means lower costs.
6. Source your own drinks
To avoid extra charges and margins, consider sourcing your drinks separately. This is especially important for alcoholic beverages due to potential licensing issues.
7. Spring for a caterer
While it may seem counterintuitive, hiring a caterer can save you time, stress, and potentially money in the long run. For those on a tight budget, consider a BBQ option. Buy your meats directly from the butcher and complement them with salads and desserts from a caterer.
With these budget-friendly Christmas catering tips, you can plan a memorable Toowoomba Christmas party without breaking the bank.
We wish you all the best in your festive event planning!
Amy Thompson (Head Monkey)
Monkey Business Catering is an award-winning catering company headquartered in Harlaxton, Toowoomba.