Tea receptions have become a popular format for hosting casual yet professional gatherings. Whether for corporate events, product launches, or social celebrations, the versatility of tea reception catering allows organisers to create a welcoming experience without the formality of a full meal. One of the key decisions in planning a successful tea reception lies in the menu selection — should it be sweet, savoury, or a well-balanced mix of both? Understanding how to customise your afternoon tea catering setup ensures it meets guests’ preferences and fits the event’s tone.
Understanding the Purpose and Guest Profile
Before finalising your menu, it’s crucial to identify the event’s purpose and the guests’ profiles. A corporate networking session may benefit from light, savoury bites that keep guests engaged without weighing them down. On the other hand, a baby shower or bridal event might lean toward sweet items such as cakes and pastries to match the celebratory atmosphere.
Catering providers typically offer flexible packages that can be customised based on the occasion and time of day. Morning events may require more substantial savoury options, while afternoon settings often call for lighter fare with a focus on presentation. Knowing your guests’ expectations makes it easier to strike the right balance and select the proper ratio of sweet to savoury.
Why Sweet Treats Are Always Crowd-Pleasers
Sweet options remain a staple in most tea reception catering menus. Items such as mini cupcakes, tarts, scones, and assorted pastries add variety and contribute to the visual appeal of the spread. Their small sizes make them easy to serve and eat, especially during standing receptions or events with limited seating.
In afternoon tea catering, sweets help create a relaxed and indulgent experience. A mix of local and Western-style desserts allows you to cater to diverse tastes. However, it’s essential to be mindful of guests with dietary restrictions. Including some low-sugar or eggless options ensures broader appeal and inclusivity without sacrificing taste or appearance.
Savoury Selections That Add Substance
While sweet items offer charm and variety, savoury choices bring substance to the menu. Finger sandwiches, mini quiches, curry puffs, and savoury rolls are common picks that satisfy without being too heavy. They help balance the menu and ensure that guests who prefer non-sweet options are catered for.
Savouries are particularly important if the event occurs near mealtimes, as they help maintain energy levels and reduce hunger. For longer events, offering a more generous savoury selection also prevents guests from stepping out to find additional food. A reputable catering service will help suggest portion sizes and combinations based on your event duration and expected turnout.
Combining Both for a Well-Rounded Menu
There’s no need to choose between sweet and savoury, as combining both is often the best approach. A balanced menu caters to different palates and adds variety and visual appeal to your catering table. Many tea reception catering services offer curated packages that include an even mix, often in tiered trays or themed platters.
When deciding on proportions, a general guideline is a 60:40 split between savoury and sweet if the event is held around meal times or the reverse for mid-afternoon or post-lunch events. It’s also wise to include a mix of hot and cold items alongside complementary beverages such as coffee, tea, or fruit-infused water.
Conclusion
Customising your tea reception catering menu to include sweet, savoury, or both ensures a versatile and enjoyable experience. The right combination depends on the event type, guest preferences, and timing. You can design a practical, appealing, and memorable menu with thoughtful planning and guidance from a reliable provider. Whether planning a corporate seminar or a social gathering, a customised afternoon tea catering setup is an ideal way to offer hospitality without the complexity of a full meal.
Contact Swee Heng Corporate today to customise your tea reception catering package for any professional or social occasion.