If you're holding a private event during the fall months, keep with the autumnal theme by creating a season-specific menu. Choose seasonal produce when possible for the best flavor, and most affordable prices. 

A fall-inspired menu will work for any type of special event or occasion, including kids' or adults' birthday parties, anniversary galas, family or corporate holiday celebrations, bridal or baby showers, family reunions, team-building gatherings, and wedding receptions. The menu can be so diverse that it will appeal to guests of all ages, and you can easily design it to accommodate any dietary restrictions. Be sure to provide plenty of protein-rich options, such as soy-based meat products and beans, for the vegans and vegetarians in the crowd.

Depending on the size of your party and your event-planning budget, you can either make the meals yourself or have events catered by a local restaurant or professional catering company. If the special occasion is taking place during a busy time, such as Halloween or Thanksgiving, secure the eatery or caterer as far in advance as possible. 

Following are some menu ideas for fall events to consider:

1. Grilled Skewers 

No matter where you live, early fall is still typically warm enough to be able to grill food outdoors. especially for daytime events. Take advantage of the cornucopia of fall produce by treating guests to skewers filled with seasonal squash, pumpkin, and even apple and pear. Use the seasonal produce in any combination along with steak, shrimp, scallops, chicken, and portobello mushrooms.

Round out the meal with a hearty rice pilaf, butternut squash soup, or stuffing. As a hands-on activity, set up a buffet-style table and have guests make their own skewers using a variety of fresh ingredients. 

2. Chili 

You can't go wrong with serving guests filling bowls of chili on a cool fall day or night. Start with a traditional recipe featuring a tomato base, a variety of beans, and ground beef, and work seasonal produce into it as well as a creative touch.

For instance, you can add cubed pumpkin, squash, or sweet potatoes to the chili, and serve it alongside homemade cornbread. It's also easy to make a meat-free chili option using more beans as well. 

3.  Caramel Apple Bar 

Round out the meal with a fun and tasty caramel apple bar. Start with a variety of firm red and green apples, and insert a stick into each one. Provide warm caramel sauce and have guests make their own desserts by dipping the apples into the sauce.

Attendees can dip their apples into toppings such as sprinkles, chocolate chips, or crumbled cookies and candy bars. Caramel apples also make sweet party favors when boxed up.

To explore menu options, contact a local private event catering service today.