Ideas to inspire you

Let's Go!

Where do I start?

  • First, think, what is the size (estimated guest count), scope and location of your event:
  • Define your vision with a theme and style: elegant, rustic, modern, cultural, seasonal? 
  • Is your event being held indoors, outdoors, or both? How adaptable is that plan in case of extreme heat or cold, wind or rain?
  • If it’s outdoors, what’s your backup plan for a worst-case scenario? Would you need a tent or indoor venue option?
  • What’s your event rentals budget? (venue, food, decor, entertainment, attire, gifts, etc)
  • Choose a date & book a venue. Confirm and secure your location early.

Plan it out

  • Hire your vendors: Planner, caterer, DJ, Photographer, Florist, Rentals.
  • For catering: plan the menu and drinks.  Choose serving style (seated or buffet), accommodate dietary needs and schedule a tasting. 
  • Is your venue or caterer providing table settings (flatware, glasses, utensils), and barware, or do you need to rent them
  • Tables: farmhouse, banquet, round, cocktail?
  • Chairs: padded folding or basic white.  How many will you need? If it is a wedding, will you  need chairs for the ceremony? 
  • Will you need one or more bars (can be used for desserts, appetizers, favors, etc).
  • Do you need a dance floor, or a stage set up for the event?
  • What kind of A/V setup do you require: something to for a live band, a DJ, a speaker?
  • Do you need lounge seating for guest comfort? Pipe and drape to create ambiance within your tent?
  • Table linens: Choose colors, patterns, and fabrics depending on the mood you are trying to create.  Get these rented or purchased as soon as possible. 
  • Send Invitations: save the dates (6-12 months prior), invites (6-8 weeks prior)

Final Details

  • Confirm and finalize with vendors, headcount.
  • Verify with florist exact delivery location and time.  Make sure your florals are still available.
  • Verify rentals of any last minute changes. 
  • Continue to organize decor & details: print seating and programs, if needed.
  • Create a Timeline
    Include setup, vendor arrival, main moments, meals, and wrap-up.
  • Assign a day-of helper(s) and have an emergency kit.
  • Enjoy your event and celebrate!

Our recommended list for event coordinators, photographers, florals and more:

Whitney at Banqwhits creates the most beautiful florals and balloon creations for your events.  She is also a wedding planner and event coordinator with years of experience in managing a high end restaurant and catered events.  She can handle your next event with the utmost care and ease.

You can find Whitney on Instagram at: Banqwhits  By email:  [email protected]    By phone: 559-840-7198                     

Tablecloth Chart

Based on the table, and the look you are going for, our guideline will help you find your perfect tablecloth size. 

Our Linen Collection includes a  wide variety of tablecloth patterns, colors and fabrics.  Find exactly what you are looking for by using our Linen Collection link at the top of this page or on our main page. 

Home-Catered Event vs Restaurant or Venue



Expense Category
At Home (Catered)
Restaurant or Venue
Venue Rental
$0 (your home)
$500–$5,000+ (varies by venue type & location)
Food & Beverage
$25–$75/person (flexible catering options)
$60–$150+/person (set menus, service fees)
Service Fees
Optional (based on staffing choice)
Often mandatory (18–25% service charge)
Alcohol
BYO (big savings)
Venue markup (often 200–400% over retail)
Decor
Full control—DIY, rent, or repurpose
Often restricted, venue may charge for extras
Parking
Free (typically)
May require valet or guest-paid garage/lot

Estimated Savings:
Hosting at home can save $1,000 to $8,000+, depending on the size and formality of the event.

Additional Benefits of a Home-Catered Event

Benefit
Description


Flexibility
Choose your own schedule, vendors, layout, and flow


Personal Touch
More room for meaningful details and personalized decor


No Venue Restrictions
Play your music, custom beverages (alcoholic and non'-alcoholic), decorate how you want


Comfort & Familiarity
Feels more intimate and cozy for guests


No Time Limits
No early shutdown or strict exit time


Pet-Friendly
Pets can be included (if desired and appropriate)


Potential Trade-Offs to Consider

Factor
At Home
Restaurant or Venue
Setup
Clean-up
You’re responsible (for hiring staff or cleaning up yourself)
Venue handles everything
Space
Capacity
May be limited indoors or for large groups
Designed for large groups
Noise
Neighbors
May need to end earlier or notify neighbors
No concern—commercial zoning
Logistics
Sometimes this Requires coordination of vendors, rentals
Turnkey packages usually available
Weather Risks
Unless the weather is predictable anything held outdoors may need a tent.
Climate-controlled and reliable


Ideal Situations for At-Home Catering

  • Smaller gatherings (under 50–75 guests)
  • Backyard, garden, or indoor space available
  • Flexible timeline or budget-conscious planning
  • You want more control and customization

Options for dinner:

You don't have to use a caterer. Many local restaurants have set menus for larger events. Set the time for pick up or some may deliver.  Even if there is a fee for delivery, most of the time, it is worth the convenience.

If you like to cook or bar-bq adding a Costco salad, rolls and dessert will easily lighten your load.  If someone offers to bring a salad or dessert, say "Yes, please".

Prepare as much ahead of time. Relax and enjoy the celebration!