Summer is a wonderful time for celebrations, whether it’s an impending wedding, birth of a baby, a graduation, or other milestones and accomplishments. When you want to bring family and friends together for the occasion, Butcher Boy can help. Any of our appetizers, entrées, side dishes, salads, platters, desserts, and more can be ordered and picked up. Simply tell us how many guests you’re expecting, and we’ll guide you on quantities.

More about the menu in a bit, but what about arranging the other elements of your party?

Make a Plan

Whether you are having a handful of people over or the entire graduating class, outlining a plan will take some stress off your shoulders. Set the date, determine the guest list, decide on the type of invitation – electronic or paper – and budget. Do you need music, party game ideas, or other entertainment?

Think Inside the Box

If you’re hosting more than one party within the next couple of months, repurpose as many supplies as you can get away with. Store trays, glassware, and serving utensils in a plastic container till you need it. Purchase disposable plates and napkins in bulk and in a color that will last you through several celebrations to avoid running out or having too many for any one event. We have a variety of styles in paper plates, cups, serving utensils, décor, and more so you can pick up everything you need in a single trip.

Decorating Details

A little goes a long way when it comes to decorations. A touch of color here and a hint of texture there will be enjoyable and memorable to the guests. If the weather cooperates, you can extend your gathering to the outdoors, and simple strings of lights when the sun sets can create nice ambience. You can get creative with where and how you string them for each event. If the party is staying indoors, you can turn down the overhead lights and string your lights indoors to create a welcoming atmosphere. Festive details like flag garland or table decorations are fun. Depending on how many children will be at the event, unscented candles are a subtle touch. Small bunches of flowers in mason jars make nice centerpieces and accents.

Satisfy Every Appetite

There are many options for feeding your party guests, depending on the size of your crowd, time of day, weather, and the mood of your gathering. Would you prefer to serve finger foods and appetizers, or is an entrée better with a few side dishes and snacks beforehand? If the sun and temperature make eating anything heavy too uncomfortable, maybe cool salads, fruits and sandwiches will hit the spot. Grilling can be easier for smaller groups, and we can help you select some of the best meats and marinades to impress your guests. We’ve got some steak recipe suggestions, too. If you’d rather leave the cooking to us, don’t forget to browse our extensive catering menu. Swing by our wine and spirits aisle and stock up on all of the ingredients for a signature cocktail and other beverage options.

Be Prepared

The better prepared you are before the day of the event, the more fun you will have hosting it. Create your music playlist ahead of time, test the speakers and have your charger nearby just in case. Make as many food items as you can or pick up your order the day before. If you are using the grill, be sure you have enough propane. Remember the ice! Another thing to remember is the placement of your food and drinks. Be sure that the path and space for serving won’t get too crowded as your guests serve themselves. Set the tables up ahead of time to ensure you have enough space. And don’t forget to delegate some tasks so you can mingle and enjoy yourself, too!

Every Party Has a Beginning and an End

Once the majority of guests have arrived, you can kick off the festivities with a special toast or ice breaker activity. As a party winds down, sometimes people aren’t sure when it’s okay to leave or if they are going to miss out on anything else if they do. Signal the end of a celebration with a group photo or a final toast to the guest of honor.

Whatever the celebration, enjoy your time to eat, drink and be merry. Spring parties are a great way to gear up for summer cook-outs! Butcher Boy will be here, with everything you need.

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