CBM Minutes

Corporate Holiday Parties

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 17:31:00 +0000

Lavish corporate holiday parties that used to include grand ballrooms, open bars, live bands and sometimes over-the-top decoration, are no longer a financial possibility for many companies. Before eliminating these celebrations from fiscal budgets, we have seen many corporate holiday parties simply scaled down to a more reasonable expenditure. Believe it or not, many employees are pleasantly surprised to be invited to the boss’ own home for a less elaborate, more intimate celebration, while others host a luncheon in the conference room during regular business hours. Either way, whatever the budget, employees feel appreciated and are able to enjoy the company of their coworkers on a more casual and relaxed social level.

For several years running, our delivered food division, A Tray to Remember™ has offered packages that have successfully fit the needs of this type of in-home or in-office catering. Depending on your guest count, we offer packages that start at less than $15 per person. One of our holiday favorites…

Choice of I:

*Sicilian Chicken

Boneless Breast of Chicken with Mushrooms, Red Bell Pepper, Artichoke Heart, Sun Dried Tomato and Capers in a Natural White Wine & Balsamic Vinegar Reduction

*Pecan Encrusted Boneless Breast of Chicken, ($1.85pp Additional)

served over Sautéed Spinach, lightly napped with

Honey Mustard Crème Sauce

***

Braciole,

lightly Breaded and Braised Rolls of Sirloin, stuffed with Prosciutto,

Onion and Arugula, napped with Herbed Tomato Gravy

Lemon Pepper Alfredo

with Sweet Green Peas, Red Onion and Parmesan in our rich,

but not heavy, Alfredo Sauce

Balsamic Potato and Onion Gratin with Caramelized Spanish Onion

and Gruyere Swiss in our Balsamic Crème

Grilled Green Bean and Tomato Salad

with marinated, Char-Grilled Green Beans, tossed with Red Onion,

Roma Tomato and Fresh Basil

Holiday Salad

Chopped Iceberg, Romaine and Radicchio, Tomatoes, Green Pepper,

Carrot, Egg, Mushroom, Red Onion, Hearts of Palm, Beet, Celery, Roasted Corn, Jícama, Monterey Jack ad Tortilla Strips, tossed in our Homemade Al Pastor Vinaigrette

Freshly Baked Bread Display

Whipped Butter and Margarine

We also offer amazing Hors D’Oeuvres and decadent Desserts that are sure to please even the most diverse and discerning group. If your group consists of “picky” eaters, we know “picky”. Consult with one of our knowledgeable Event Coordinators today for recommendations and proven solutions. Because our sales team actually enjoys interacting with customers, and have a special place in their hearts for food, you will find yourself in very capable hands.

If all of this seems a bit overwhelming, ask about our experienced personnel to come to your home or office, not only to receive the order upon delivery, but to heat if necessary, set your buffet, serve your guests, replenish menu items and clean up. If you require special linens, equipment or decoration, we can help with that as well. It’s your choice, you may simply place an order or you can choose to plan a more detailed event without breaking the bank.

During the Holiday Season, no matter what you are celebrating, no event is too small. The effort that goes into planning even the most basic celebration can prove to be the most sincere gesture.

Happy Holiday’s from all of us at Catering By Michael’s! We appreciate all of our clients business and look forward to being of service in 2011.

Rosh Hashanah

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 14:11:00 +0000

The High Holidays bring us together.
We celebrate with family and friends.
We remember good times.
We observe our honored traditions.
And we eat.

At Catering by Michael's, our scrumptious foods and world-class service help to make your holidays a true celebration.

View our 2010 Rosh Hashanah Menus now!

HORS D’OEUVRES

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Sat, 08 May 2010 00:31:00 +0000

With the current economic climate in the Catering and Hospitality Industry, many hotels have turned to outsourcing hors d’oeuvres, desserts and other various items for catered events to cut back on kitchen labor costs. This provides Catering by Michaels a unique opportunity to expand our business. As Catering by Michaels employs a full kitchen staff, we have the capability to produce large quantities of food on short notice. We offer a large variety of buttlered-style and buffet hors d’oeuvres and desserts that we are already producing for our own events, therefore, the additional man power required to increase the volume of production for potential wholesale clients is quite minimal. With a large fleet of drivers, we also possess the ability to deliver to our wholesale clients the day of, everything packaged for convenient assembly, or pre-assembled (depending on product) for ease and convenience. Everything would be freshly made from scratch, and guaranteed to the standard of perfection that has afforded us all of our culinary accolades. As the dynamics of the Catering world have shifted greatly with the current economic recession, to remain relevant, we must always be evaluating the market place; our client’s ever changing needs and expanding our customer base. With that in consideration, we are hoping capitalize on the labor cut backs many hotels are experiencing and grow an entirely new wholesale client base.

TAILGATES

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Wed, 05 May 2010 15:40:00 +0000

Tailgate is an American English word denoting the door or 'gate' at the back of a wagon, pickup truck, SUV or other similar type of vehicle that is hinged at the bottom and can be opened for the convenience in loading cargo into the rear of the vehicle. (Wikipedia)

Ever since we have been traveling, we have be “TAILGATING”, eating out of the back end of our personal mode of transportation. However, when we mention a “Tailgate Party”, it conjures up visions of sporting event parking lots and mini Weber grills. Guys and gals of all ages festooned in the colors of their favored team. Who hasn’t seen the purple and white painted faces of NU fans?

Tailgating has matured. They don’t always have to be at a sporting event. You can tailgate in your own backyard, concert lawn or beach to celebrate a friendship, birthday, graduation, engagement or even a wedding - from the simple picnic basket filled with homemade sandwiches and salads served on paper plates with lemonade and beer to linen covered tables with silver candelabra. The grill man serving up anything from hot dogs and burgers to steaks, grilled fish and kebobs. These wonderful entrees are accompanied by a wide variety of side dishes. Of course there is always lemonade and beer, but now we add our favorite Pinot Grigio and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The paper plates and plastic cutlery have paved the way for more upscale and “green” plastic, bamboo or china plates, often eaten with stainless or silver plated utensils. Let’s not forget that cloth napkins have their place in the setting as well!

Whether you are at the first game of the season or at home celebrating a milestone in life, you can tailgate for a fun, flavorful and memorable event.

ALICE GONE MAD?

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 23:51:00 +0000

ALICE GONE MAD?

CHELSHIRE CAT GONE CRAZY?

TOP HATS THAT LIGHT UP?

LET DESIGNED CUISINE BE YOUR GUIDE THROUHG A NITE ENTERING INTO THE “BLACK HOLE”

We mixed our Potions ….Grew our Blossoms ….And Brought in Our Chocolate Mousse “Cats”

We Created Magic Without a Magician, But Even Better…with Our Chefs in the Kitchen and Our Service to the Guests!

The “Queen of Hearts” Arrived and we were on our way to the Culinary Menagerie we so tried to Create.

We Cornered the Market on Unique Miniature Disposables, Colorful Serving Trays and Fun Teapots to serve our “Special Mad hatter’s Tea” (Vidalia Onion Soup)

Other “Wonderland” Delicacies included Merry Oysters with a Drinkable Bloody Mary Mignonette, Fried Green Tomato Salad, Deconstructed Cobb Salad (Pushed out from PVC Tubes), Lobster Crabcake Sliders and Delicious Truffle Parmesan Tator Tots served in Individual Fry Baskets with a Variety of Dipping Sauces

Dessert started with a Parade of Miniature Heart Shaped Tarts accompanied by an Additional “Masked” Server carrying an attached “Lazy Susan Contraption” to assist with serving. There were Palettes of Artistic Colored Heart Shaped Truffles, Petite Ice Cream Sandwiches, Lavender Scented Brownies (You Taste What You Smell!) and Petite Honey Amaretto Push-Ups.

The Guests were serviced “Cabana Style” and after Food Overload, many Long Island Iced “Teas” and Hours of Motown Dancing with Fun Thematic Hats….the Night Comes to a Close and “Project Alice” is a Dream Come True!!

What’s new in Linens this Spring!

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 19:13:00 +0000

There are new colorful prints as well as bold black & white prints that pack a punch,

Elegant sheers in white and in gold to dress up solid colors taking it up a notch,

Rich Silk shantung solids that are all about understated elegance,

and animal prints In monochromatic tones that speak of wealthy decadence.

What does this say about our economy? Wishful thinking perhaps.

Earth Day

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 17:03:00 +0000

Spring is in the air and with summer rapidly approaching, the minds of chefs and foodies alike turn to early summer’s harvest. Fresh asparagus, ripe red strawberries and green peas brighten even the blandest dishes. For those whom have turned away from the winter’s farmers markets, have no fear, the warm weather will invigorate your minds and palates again. The promise of peaches and tomatoes to come makes us think of a world without the beautiful seasons we have grown so accustomed to.

With Earth Day, we are reminded of our global impact as a high-volume catering company. Larger kitchens are notorious for excessive amounts of waste and deterring from local markets. This year we have vowed to change our thinking and the way our clients eat. Currently we are on a mission to contract with local farms for seasonal produce to better the food we serve and improve local farming communities. We are on the search for a biodiesel producer to recycle our fryer oil each month and convert it to an important energy source for many rural communities. However, with all the changes we are working on implementing, our company is still just a small part of the larger picture.

To honor earth day, we are urging our employees and customers to participate in easy, earth-altering activities. When attending local farmer’s markets, bring your own reusable shopping bags. Even recycling plants have been accused of being phony, so it is always best to reuse resources when possible and your shopping bags are an excellent place to start. When heading out to local farmer’s markets, walk instead of driving. By not driving for 1 day, you could save ¼ pound of air pollution from being emitted into the air. This may not sound like much, but if every Chicagoan participated we could save about 725,000 pounds of pollution in just one day. Last but not least, purchase food items that are organic. By choosing these items you support a movement aimed at improving the environment through natural and sustainable practices such as crop rotation and natural fertilization.

By thinking locally, you can have an impact globally. It starts with just one person, one company or one community. Let’s help keep Earth Day alive by reducing our global impact and improving the lives of those around us.

Diversifying Sales - Pharmaceutical Reps

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 20:35:00 +0000

Todays post was written by Lynn Mason who works with several Pharma Reps on a daily basis.

I often wondered what it was like to sell drugs to a doctor. Why is it so difficult for the pharmaceutical reps to convince a doctor to purchase a drug that would help patients feel better? The pharmaceutical industry has taken a turn to almost nothing. I know that the Reps are out there pushing the pavement and struggling to push new “miracle drugs” to the doctors. So the solution is of course to break bread while discussing business. In the old mafia movies, it seemed that discussing business over a meal seemed to always work. So it should be easy to do these days.

You know the old saying the quickest way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Well why not make this true for the doctor’s. After all everyone loves to eat. That is a great ploy for the Pharmaceutical Reps to get more appointments with the doctor’s offices and introduce their products. A nice afternoon lunch with simple things, as long as there is dessert. But we don’t want to offend them with heavy pastas and pizzas, they are still doctors and they will more than likely practice healthy eating. They also have a great opportunity to build relationships with the office staff – they are usually more than happy to answer questions about the doctors. In addition, they may provide information/reasoning about their physicians’ prescribing habits that you may not have had the opportunity to ask the doctor yourself.

Pick the office staff’s brains every time you get the chance; it will help build those relationships…and we all know that selling is primarily about relationships!

Diversifying Sales - Education

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 11:56:00 +0000

Today’s post was written by Meredyth Brook. In the current economy it has become critical for us to look to new or untraditional sectors for business. Meredyth has been very successful in partnering with local universities who utilize our delivery service.

When people think about the hospitality industry and planning events there is a market segment that often times gets overlooked. Many people focus time and energy on increasing their corporate business because these clients host several events a year and provide a consistent stream of business. Most people don’t realize that the Education Services sector of the corporate market is a good place to find clients that have several meetings and events throughout the year that need catering, A/V, equipment and other resources. Additionally, in most universities, each department has their own decision making power so they can use whoever they would like from the preferred vendor list. This opens the door for unlimited opportunities on the different campuses. They are also a tight knit community so if you start working with a few departments and they are pleased with their service, they will most certainly refer other departments your way. I find that another common occurrence within the education community is that people transfer to different departments as well as different schools so if they are happy with you they will most likely take your services to their next position. It is a great way to establish a consistent business throughout the year when your other markets might be slower seasonally.

Corporate Picnics

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 17:11:00 +0000

Todays post was written by Jami Anderson, our Picnic Specialist.

Corporate picnics are no longer a staple in every company’s yearly list of activities. While many corporations have opted not to have the biggest event of the year due to layoffs, cut backs, loss of sales and buy outs, twice as many have simply opted to scale back on that same event. Instead of spending $50k on the annual summer celebration, a healthier, more frugal expenditure, around $10k-$20k is more easily absorbed, while still impressing the guests without appearing over indulgent and frivolous.

What used to be expected by employees has become appreciated by employees. With camaraderie at an all time low and fear of being “next on the chopping block” at an all time high, what better time than to treat your employees to a real team celebration reinforcing their purpose within the company? While this is an “employers’ world”, the gesture of sincere appreciation hasn’t changed. Any successful employer knows the benefit of showing the most valued employees their worth. Given all of the reasons to cancel these special events, there are even more reasons not to. A company is only as good as its’ employees and happy, acknowledged and appreciated employees perform more diligently and stand proud as a united front.

Using just a portion of a special event budget can prove to be a great investment. It shows employees they are worth investing in, stimulating productivity and boosting camaraderie. It’s a “win” “win” expenditure.

Welcome Tiffany

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Tue, 06 Apr 2010 19:27:00 +0000

Today we welcome Tiffany Hallgren to Catering By Michael's. Tiffany will be working as an Assistant Event Coordinator. We asked her to write a little bit about herself and this is what she had to say:

I am a foodie. My parents always laugh when I go home for the weekend to visit them, because as soon as I walk in the door, the Food Network comes on. Trying new, sometimes time-intensive, recipes with family and friends is my favorite hobby, and entertaining comes naturally to me. Whether it’s a themed movie night, or a nice sit-down dinner, I make food to show people I care. So when I got my first full-time job as an Assistant Event Coordinator at Catering by Michael’s, I knew it was a perfect fit.

My first thirty days working at Catering by Michael’s has been a whirlwind of meeting new people, a little bit of cooking (I am now an expert garnisher), and learning the ropes at a new company. The first new hire to work for brief periods in all departments, I have seen and learned so much. Spending time with the cooks in the kitchen, with the drivers who deliver the finished product to the clients, learning how to price food and staff events in operations, and preparing for even the tiniest detail of each full serve event has helped me understand the level of work and detail that goes into each Michael’s delivery or event.

For me, I think the coolest part about this job is that the food here is AMAZING! Every afternoon at lunch, and at our Designed Cuisine events, I’ve been able to try so many new things, most of which are absolutely delicious. In this economic climate, a new college grad needs to take whatever job they find, regardless of the product they are selling. But I can honestly say, being someone who loves to try new things, and who loves to cook, that Catering by Michael’s is the real deal. Each dish that comes out of the kitchen is flawlessly cooked and plated. I am so excited to tell more people in Chicagoland about this awesome company I am now a part of.

As I move into more specific training for my position, I am looking forward to coordinating all of those little details that make an event so special. From ordering colorful or swanky linens, making sure we have all the right equipment, reconciling final guest counts, and gently guiding clients through their event, we take care of every last element to ensure great memories and a perfect event.

It has been a crazy, hectic, and sometimes stressful month, but the satisfaction that comes at the end of the night, after the adrenaline rush has subsided, and all the guests have gone home, makes every minute spent preparing totally worth it.

Passover

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 21:07:00 +0000

It’s almost that time of year again; when we comb through our pantries, disposing of all the food items that are not pesadik for Passover. It can often be challenging keeping Passover while trying to maintain our daily schedules as well as meals that we have grown accustomed to throughout the rest of the year. Here at Catering by Michael’s, we have taken it upon ourselves to provide and deliver a delicious feast, sent beautifully displayed, that you would never know was made special for Passover. Our exceptional Passover Menu includes both classic items and specialty creations that are certain to indulge your guests. These recipes have been tested over and over (just ask Stewart, I think he is “kugeled” out) so that they are made to the Catering by Michael’s standard of perfection that you know and love. We have included entire menu packages for ease of ordering and for those customers that prefer to customize their menus and provide items themselves, we have a wonderful variety of entrees, sides, appetizers and desserts offered ala carte. Ordering is as easy as dialing 847-966-8333 and speaking with one of our knowledgeable sales representatives who can guide you to the appropriate menu for your party. Below, I have included a link to the Passover menu for easy reference. We look forward to hearing from you.
The Passover Menu Can Be Viewed By Clicking Here

New Video

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Sat, 23 Jan 2010 20:16:00 +0000

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

Special Event Showcase

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 23:31:00 +0000

To showcase the opening of the new Chicago hot spot, LaSalle Power Company, our staff at Designed Cuisine teamed up with them to treat the industry to a high end feast in a fun and eclectic environment. While indulging on items such as curry cracker crusted sea bass and grilled baby octopus, party goers danced to the LaSalle Power Company house band covering 80’s rock and roll classics. While everyone certainly enjoyed themselves, this event was about much more than a good time. As Catering by Michael’s is acclaimed for fantastic picnic feasts and kitschy-cuisine, we wanted to use this great opportunity to showcase the fancy and extravagant menu selections of Designed Cuisine, the full service division of Catering by Michaels. Our goal for this evening was to show all the innovators in the catering world, the culinary prowess of Designed Cuisine. With rave reviews and positive feedback, not to mention a lack of leftovers, we felt this vision was achieved.

There is a reason Catering by Michael’s has been awarded the Jean Banchet Award for Culinary Excellence in Catering four years straight. The heart of this company is driven by a strong passion for food. As we live in Chicago, a culinary hub, with a population of cultured palates, this is very important, as our sales staff is trained to meet the ever changing needs of the “foodie” generation. Not only do we write enticing menus, but we deliver on promise of quality.

Chicago – Home of the 2016 Summer Olympics?

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 17:49:00 +0000

Just the mere idea that Chicago could host the 2016 Olympics has brought a greater sense of community to this city for the second time this year. Chicago came together when Barak Obama was elected president and people were booming with pride. Now we potentially have the opportunity to show the world how fabulous Chicago natives all know this city to be. If we are awarded the Olympics, this will affect so many people in such positive ways. More jobs will be available, the city will be enhanced with new structures and stadiums and as you walk by each other on the streets you will see the pride and honor on people’s faces as they look at you and share a smile, priceless. The world will know what we already know. Chicago culture has been built over time through a diverse range of ethnic groups settling here and bringing with them tradition, community and hope. We have learned from each other and experienced the joy’s of different backgrounds by walking through the different neighborhoods and dining in any number of the several great restaurants throughout the city. From Greektown, China Town and Italian Village to Deli’s, Pizza and the famous Chicago style hotdog, we are rich in flavor, style and grace and we are looking so forward to sharing that with people all over the globe.

Bright Ideas for Graduation Entertaining

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 21:08:00 +0000

Summer is just around the corner, and the 2009 Graduation season is about to begin. We understand the current economic conditions have caused many of us to cut back on spending. As a caterer, we have taken it upon ourselves to develop new and creative ideas that will allow for you to throw the same fabulous party with a smaller budget. Graduation is a special time so our brainstorming team has come up with some bright ideas to trim the fat, while still celebrating in style.

Little Munchies to Go Around

Passing is where it’s at. Not just hors d’oeuvres, but dinner and dessert. With a passed graduation party, guests can sample a huge variety of items they wouldn’t have ordinarily been able to with a buffet on a smaller budget. A passed reception will not require any equipment rental for buffet or china. Additionally, this lends well to Graduation Open houses. A buffet cannot keep food all day long, but our staff can pace out the meal, so fresh food will be coming out with every new guest arrival.

Take Advantage of the Summer Time

Here in Chicago, we take our summers seriously, as we only get a few months every year. Since graduation falls at this time of the year, why not enjoy the weather and make it a BBQ. Through our Tailgates division, we can create a customized BBQ just for you. Our Tailgates deliver on the same high quality food that you have always known us for, at a lower price point. Char Burgers and Jumbo hot dogs are certain crowd pleasers. Grilled corn on the cob rolled in butter and parmesan is essential part of enjoying these warm days. Whether its grammar school, high school or doctoral graduations, all of your guests are certain to be satisfied.

The Perfect Drink for a Summer Day

If you’re trying to cut back on the budget for your Graduation party, why not reevaluate the beverage selection. Guest will surely appreciate a nice cool beer with a warm summer day. If you are opposed to downgrading on the bar package, maybe consider an upgraded beer and wine package, still significantly less than a full bar. We can customize the perfect bar package for you, providing some excellent wines and summer beers that are the perfect pairing for any Graduation celebration.

Twitter

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 15:54:00 +0000

After reading the article below we have started using Twitter at Catering by Michael's. Our plan is to tweet at least once a day. We will share links to interesting industry news and provide some special offers to our customers. Follow us at
http://twitter.com/CateringChicago

ORIGINALLY FROM EVENT SOLUTIONS
The events blogosphere has been buzzing about Twitter, one of the most talked-about social media tools to hit the scene. The "microblog" media allows users to instantly message "followers" with tips, articles, comments and ideas.

Companies like Dell, JetBlue and InStyle magazine have all seen success using Twitter to drive traffic to their websites, provide customer service and put a human voice behind the organization in real-time. Industry associations like MPI and ASAE have tried it for regional events to much success, and we want to join in the fun!

The Pathable.com blog said it better than we can. Check out the article, "Twitter for Event Planners." Some ideas about Twitter and events we like:

1. Engage audiences through commenting on sessions and speakers
2. Real time feedback from attendees
3. Quicker than e-mail if you need instant opinions
4. Good way to provide customer service for registration, questions from customers
5. Instantly message out information or breaking news
6. Fast scheduling of meetups with partners and vendors during conferences

From: Event Solutions
By: Pat McCarrell - Publisher

Passover

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 22:14:00 +0000

Passover is just around the corner and here at Catering by Michael’s we realize that finding delicious Kosher for Passover food to server your family can be challenging. We feel that just because you are keeping Passover, doesn’t mean that you need to severely limit yourself with what you eat. Our Passover Menu is filled with wonderful entrees, sides, appetizers and treats all kosher for the holiday. Additionally, it is filled with the classics and many items for your Seder. We like to relieve our clients of the burden of hosting by providing them with wonderful food sent beautiful displayed and ready to go. Ordering is as easy as dialing 847-966-6555 and speaking with one of our knowledgeable sales representatives who can guide you to the appropriate menu for your party. Below, I have included a link to the Passover menu for easy reference. We look forward to hearing from you.
Click here to see the menu now

Strange Days, Indeed

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 17:33:00 +0000

In light of the most recent news about a big-name chef seeking out downscale opportunities, let’s check our scorecard. Yep, we’ve now got Kornick planning to do burgers, Bowles sandwiches, Bayless tortas and churros, and Achatz whatever. Any bets on who’s next and what they’ll be doing? Will Jean Joho open a croque monsieur stand? Gale Gand a Jell-O shop? Will Michael Carlson sell Italian beef out of his kitchen?

ChicagoMag.com Dish: Days of Sunda

By: Penny Pollcak & Jeff Ruby

Recession Proofing your Event Planning

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:22:00 +0000

At Catering by Michael's we have been working to adjust our business to be more competitive in this economic climate. Below is some of the best information we have seen regarding event planning in the recession. We excel at all six points listed below. #2 has become a major point of interest for us. Give an event manager a call today and we will be more than happy to discuss other proposals with you. (847) 966-6555

In times like these, knowing how to keep doing business and stay positive with all the negative news out there can be challenging. Nicole Suresky, founder, chief strategy officer and executive producer of The Event Catalyst, provided six tips on how to survive and thrive in in the current economy in her session, "Recession Proofing your Event Planning." Here are her tips:

1. Be strategic. Being business-minded is the key to surviving and thriving.
2. Educate the client as to what value is. Show that you know how to do events right.
3. Be a solution. Clients pay for solutions, especially during times like these.
4. See the opportunity. Refuse to participate in the recession.
5. Be flexible -- for yourself. Work with your client.
6. Take care of yourself -- or there will be no one to recession-proof your job for you.

Food for Condolences

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 23:25:00 +0000

While I enjoy dedicating this blog to happy celebrations and events, it would be irresponsible of me to ignore that food is crucial in times of sorrow as well. When our friends and family lose a loved one, words can be difficult. While it may be customary to attend a Shiva or Wake to show our love and support, food baskets can relieve those mourning of one less worry. In the traditional Jewish religion, mourners are not allowed to cook or prepare food using heat. Therefore, guests are encouraged to bring hot meals for those in mourning. During these times, our reliable sales staff is here for you to take care of all the arrangements with regards to food and service so that those mourning can focus on their friends and loved ones instead of food. With our incredibly large variety of offerings, our sales staff can direct you towards the most appropriate platter or meal. We strive to relieve our clients from all the stress of coordinating meals during this time.

Degustation Menus

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 23:10:00 +0000

When serving a plated meal, it can be difficult to offer your guests several menu selections. Combination plates offer two choices but there are thousands of options. For those that are interested in offering their guests a diverse dining experience, there is another alternative. Hosts can serve their guests a meal full of variety and excitement through degustation menus.
Degustation menus are an old staple in the traditional French restaurant, but a fairly new trend in the catering world. These menus offer a small tasting of eclectic dishes that deliver to the entire palate. Menus can range from a progression of 3 to 10 dishes on average. Guests will be treated to a diverse sampling of cuisine and still leave with the same satisfied feel they would have received from a traditional plated salad and entrée. If you can’t decide between scallops, short ribs or lamb chops, you can now serve them all without overstuffing your guests. Our chefs can customize a tasting menu to perfectly to match your party’s appetites.
Our craft does not stop at cuisine; we can also incorporate a wonderful beverage selection into your customized menu. With the growing interest in food and wine pairings, we can customize wine tastings to serve with each course, enhancing the overall experience. If you truly want to indulge your guests, this is the way to do it. Our chefs and sales staff can work in many directions. If you have a select few wines that you would love to build a menu around or if you have an interest in certain cuisine that you would like us to pair with wine, our knowledgeable staff can connect all the dots in your culinary vision.
As we live in Chicago, a culinary hub with a population of cultured palates, we are constantly creating menus to appeal to our customer’s inner foodie. These are just a few suggestions, as in the world of catering, the possibilities are endless.

Winter Promotions

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 17:31:00 +0000

I would like to use this forum to announce that Designed Cuisine, a Catering by Michael’s Company, is the 2008 recipient of the Jean Banchet Award for Culinary Excellence as Best Caterer in Chicago. This is a fourth consecutive win for Designed Cuisine. As we pride ourselves on putting out exceptional food, this award serves as a testament to the superiority of our craft. We welcome you to come try our “award winning” cuisine at a discount with the following promotions:

1. Free delivery on A Tray To Remember Orders*
2. Save up to $1500 on Designed Cuisine events*
3. Free dessert with Passover and Easter deliveries*
4. 10% off qualifying Invoices*

Call an event coordinator for more information. (847) 966-6555

*Rules and restrictions apply. Offer only valid where allowed by law. Offers may not be combined.

CATERING BY MICHAEL'S TAKES TOP PRIZE AT JEAN BANCHET AWARDS

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 21:47:00 +0000

Morton Grove, IL February 5, 2009 -- The 12th annual Grand Chefs Gala presented by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation paid tribute to local chefs during the city’s most prestigious chef event of the year. It’s an honor to win this award even once and Catering by Michaels has received this award four times within the last 7 years (nominees can only compete in alternate years).
In the catering world, many companies lose sight of the ultimate goal which is to serve guests an outstanding meal while providing them with exceptional service. This often gets lost among caterers in their efforts to turn a profit and mass produce cuisine for large events. Catering by Michael’s Executive Sous Chef Don O’Machel accepted the award amongst fellow nominees; Blue Plate, Food for Thought and Entertaining Company. O’Machel states, “This company was founded on the premise of always serving outstanding food; and that has remained the most important objective for the entire 25 years we’ve been in business. We hold ourselves accountable to three primary standards: high quality food, first-class service and a commitment to creativity.” Receiving this award and being recognized by peers in our industry speaks volumes to the integrity of this company’s never-ending dedication to outstanding cuisine.
Fellow recipients included Grant Achatz of Alinea for Celebrity Chef and Best Fine Dining, Elizabeth Dahl of Boka for Rising Pastry Chef and Curtis Duffy of Avenues for Rising Chef. Executive Vice President David Sandler adds, “We are truly honored to be listed amongst such a talented group.”
Catering by Michael’s, one of the largest and most acclaimed caterers in the Chicagoland area, has been in operation since 1983. The Company is 100% owned by Stewart Glass and includes four divisions; Designed Cuisine, A Tray to Remember, Picnics, Inc., and Events at Independence Grove. Originally based in Highland Park, Catering by Michael’s relocated to Morton Grove in 1991 to accommodate and support their multitier business of full service custom catering, drop-off catering, and large format corporate picnics.
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The Mitzvah Lull

noreply@blogger.com (Catering by Michael's) — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 19:13:00 +0000

The life of a 13 year old can be quite hectic. After going to 2 to 3 bar mitzvahs a weekend, the tradition starts to become redundant and loses excitement. As a caterer we are constantly racking our brains to think of new and innovative ideas that rejuvenate the bar/bat mitzvah scene for the children. After all, this is their celebration. In light of that, we thought of ways to incorporate fun themes into the food and drink selection for the children, so they feel as important as the adults, while also maintaining a child appropriate charm.

Recently, we offered dim sum carts as the children’s main course. We plated up classic items that children love, such as pot stickers, edamame and egg rolls, in a fun and eclectic way. The presentation of the dim sum cart at the table instantly elevates the experience for the children and treats them to something out of the ordinary, as opposed to the usual chicken finger and French fry feast. Another offering that is perfect for children is a “Wrap and Roll” station. The kids can create all different kinds of burritos to their exact liking (even the picky ones are happy). We can prepare anything from crispy chicken and ranch, classic salsa con queso with carne asada to a spicy Thai peanut chicken selection. The options are limitless and can be easily customized to meet your child’s preferences.

Innovation does not have to stop at the food. We can also add pizzazz to the beverage selection. Shirley Temples are always popular but most likely because it’s the only interesting beverage on the menu. How about Pineapple Mint and Strawberry Rhubarb Lemonade? Kids go crazy for the wild selection of flavors and appreciate the interesting additions to the menu. There is also an added bonus because the lemonades provide great mixers for wonderful adult cocktails.
Here at Michaels, our sales staff is constantly working to create fun and unique ideas to make your events memorable. These are just a few suggestions, as in the world of catering, the possibilities are endless.