Food and beverages can make or break an event, often leaving a lasting impression on attendees. Was there variety? Was the food well-prepared? Did the flavor profiles shine? Were mocktails offered alongside cocktails? These details matter.
To help event planners deliver memorable culinary experiences, Smart Meetings has compiled a list of essential food and beverage stories from this past year to help planners leave their attendees’ stomachs satisfied.
How Canada Is Shaking Up F&B Offerings
In this piece, Smart Meetings Managing Editor Kate Zaliznock highlights Canada’s innovative approach to food and beverage. The country’s F&B industry emphasizes sustainability, local sourcing and unique culinary experiences that reflect regional culture.
Zaliznock also explores how Canadian venues incorporate sustainable practices and Indigenous ingredients, encouraging environmental responsibility while delivering distinctive dining experiences.
Culinary Experience in Vegas Nourished Relationships
The 2024 Smart Meetings Culinary Experience, held in August at Paris Las Vegas, showcased the importance of accessible, healthy and creative food options in event planning.
In collaboration with Caesars Entertainment, the event highlighted strategies to enhance attendee satisfaction and achieve key performance indicators. Tracy Stuckrath, founder of Thrive! Meetings & Events, spoke on the impact of F&B decisions on sustainability, engagement, inclusivity and budgets. She offered guidance on partnering with venues, sourcing locally, accommodating diverse dietary needs and ensuring proper labeling to maximize attendee comfort.
Healthy F&B: Prebiotics & Probiotics Explained
Probiotics and prebiotics—what are they, and why do they matter? Smart Meetings delves into the benefits of incorporating these elements into event menus to support attendees’ well-being.
The story highlights the link between gut health and mood, encouraging planners to include probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso and kombucha. Prebiotic foods like bananas, onions, garlic, leeks, asparagus and soybeans further support beneficial gut bacteria.
By integrating these options, planners can enhance attendees’ overall health and satisfaction.
How to Elevate Your Next Corporate Catering Event
Suzanne Halperin, head of meetings and events for luxury and lifestyle Americas at IHG Hotels & Resorts, spoke with Smart Meetings about the shift toward chef-driven, wellness-focused and immersive dining experiences.
IHG’s approach includes personalized menus highlighting each property’s culinary expertise and delivering restaurant-quality meals for event attendees. Halperin also noted the growing demand for alcohol-free beverage options, such as mocktails, reflecting the sober-curious trend among younger generations.
Sipping in Style: A Night at Irvine Marriott’s YNK Speakeasy
During a visit to Irvine, California, Smart Meetings Multimedia Editor Eming Piansay met with Sean Milan, Irvine Marriott’s food and beverage manager, for an immersive experience at YNK (You Never Know), the hotel’s exclusive speakeasy.
Milan shared insights into YNK’s meticulous four-month menu development process, highlighting the team’s dedication to continuous improvement and innovation. Event planners working with venues like YNK can collaborate with the F&B team to craft distinctive culinary experiences tailored to their groups’ needs and interests.
