Incredible Edibles
Event producer Venetia Harpin shares her thoughts on creating an incredible edible experience.
I had a conversation with a client, a sportswear brand, this week about whether they could have canapés that looked like trainers for a corporate launch party. I told them ‘no’ - mainly because the item in question was a parmesan toast. Who would want to eat cheesy feet!
I have always maintained that going to food tastings is one of my all-time favourite activities as an events producer. Mainly because it fulfils a long-standing dream to literally try everything on the menu. But also because it’s such a crucial part of an event and can really make or break the experience.
Now, there is a time and a place for novelty appetizers, particularly shoe-shaped ones, but I am constantly excited by new types of edible event treats that are out there. If you plan a lot of events, you will have noticed that trends come and go (who remembers the great Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream Rush of 2013-14?!). Certainly there is always a desire, or should I say appetite, for featuring something your guests haven’t had before.
So here’s a few thoughts on creating an incredible edible experience…
3D Printed Foods
You can put the words ‘3D Printed’ in front of anything these days and everyone still goes bananas. It’s hilarious. It’s also super fun. Check out Magic Candy Factory and eat your own face. On a banana-flavoured gummy sweet.
Pro tip: Before you actually do commission a company to make 300 replica jellies of your CEO’s head, do sense check whether they’re the kind of person that would be entertained by the idea. If they’re referred to internally as ‘Kim Jong Il” then maybe not.
Delicious Mists
At some point, someone decided chewing was so last season (I’m looking at you, fashion industry!) and started making food you simply inhale. The delightful magicians at Lick Me I’m Delicious have edible perfume, mist orbs, and flavoured bubbles among their creations. Just remember to clarify that’s a company name and not an instruction when explaining to colleagues…. Woops!
Pro tip: Boost brand visibility by adding logos to lollipops, custom-printed labels to sweet wrapping, and bespoke menu descriptions or cocktail names to fit your occasion.
Eye-popping Presentation
Sometime’s it’s not what is being served, it’s how you serve it. We all eat with our eyes first, and some caterers are seriously upping their game. From a vintage Ice Cream Tricycle up to the punchy impact of The Fryer Engine keep an eye out for quirky vehicles that really fit your theme.
Pro tip: When hiring unusual contraptions or customised vehicles, remember to check what their ‘tech spec’ is to ensure you have enough power and space available.
Guest Post by Venetia Harpin
London-based Event Producer
Venetia Harpin is our Event Professional-In-Residence. Her work has ranged from luxury drinks receptions, to running around at muddy festivals, with everything from fashion shows, wedding receptions and brand launches in between. With over 10 years of producing events under her belt, she now specialises in creating bespoke and immersive experiences.