Posts Tagged ‘cuisine’
With Compliments….a testimonal.
Posted by: Chris Campbell
March 19th, 2011 >> Abbey staff, Abbey Vendors, Client Testimonials, Events, Other, Tablescapes, Trends, Weddings
tree with fruit infused champagne
You are such true professionals. You made every idea I had about the wedding come true and exceeded every expectation I had. Every time we spoke, you made me feel like I was the only bride you had as a client even though I know you were always in high demand! You genuinely cared about our wedding and went to every length to ensure our satisfaction. I cannot express my thanks to you enough; you honestly gave us perfection.The entire Abbey experience was amazing. Every single person that had a hand in our wedding made it as special as if it were their own. I felt so calm and confident knowing that every detail was taken care of by the Abbey staff. I can honestly say that I was never “stressed” about any part of the wedding planning or the actual day because of the trust I had in the Abbey and the vendors I had chosen. It is clear that everyone takes pride in their work and is shows in every wedding they do. So thank you to Robert, Rob, Arturo, Randy, Blake, Tande, Babycakes and all the service professionals for making our day perfect.
With warmest regards
We really enjoy making people happy…whether planning events, and weddings or just taking care of the little things…At The Abbey you’ll never have to sweat the small stuff…
Preparing a Budget for Your Wedding-Notes from the Office
Posted by: Chris Campbell
Robert Battoe
Brides & Grooms recently engaged…the planning has begun. What is the first thing you do? The dress, venue, catering? No, the first order of business is to come up a realistic budget. I often tell my brides that this is a project in itself and certainly, a learning experience. With a show of hands, how many have planned a wedding before? Ummm….i see! Well, standards in the industry are constantly changing so what is the best method of determining an accurate budget? First things first, what is the number one most important thing to you that you will not waiver on? Answer that and then make a list of all of the elements to your design and vendors you want to see present i.e. florist, cake, photography, catering. Research that list and come up with 3 options per and then investigate their products. I say 3 because any more will overwhelm. For the photography, for example , we will need to get an estimate on everything you want from engagement photos to extra per hour charges from each candidate. Use the internet to read their reviews. Everybody has happy client testimonials but don’t neglect Yelp. Be confident when asking for the bottom line and estimated additional costs. I offer my clients the opportunity to review their other proposals, and often they are not itemized and spelled out fully when they are reviewing them. Find someone with a passion for what they do. Is that a personal plug? Yes! I have references and I’m not afraid to use them . I’m of the Miracle On 34TH Street mind-set and if the Abbey’s not the best choice, I will tell you and offer you suggestions on what might be the best fit for your aesthetic or budget. This is an important day to you, and to me. Let’s make it the best it can be!
The Abbey would love to help you have the perfect picnic wedding, if you need help or tips and preparing your budget, our Team is more than happy to help you.
Let the cuisine flow like wine at your 2011 reception
Posted by: Liz, Blogger
Sushi plates ready to be snapped up
Possibly one of the most frustrating options to choose for the reception will be the catering. With hundreds of hungry mouths to feed and the almost guaranteed possibility that some of our guests will have food allergies and certain dietary requirements, it is very important for a bride and groom to pick carefully in order to continue wowing the guests. The tradition of wedding dining is to have a sat-down set meal, but in this blog we will be discussing how the trends of wedding eating are changing in 2011.
The best wedding receptions are those that don’t get stale and ruin the mood of the guests . While many couples still opt for the tradition of table plans and set menus and have a very successful reception, more and more bride and grooms to be are looking at ways to spice it up with different food options, ways of serving, and the whole dining décor.
One trend that started becoming a popular choice in 2010 is the ‘flow’ reception. Guests have the chance to dine when they choose during a set period, getting their food from various stations around the room. This creates the opportunity to have many different food options without having to spend hours combing the RSVPs for special requirements, and the timings of the food stations opening and closing can be coincided with traditional aspects such as the speeches and cutting of the cake.
The types of food served at these stations can also be mixed up. Sushi was a very popular request for many having food stations, as were sliders, South of the border and also the versatile salad station. The Abbey worked with many different couples and corporate events that saw these foods prove their success with many return trips for seconds and even thirds! The stations can be dressed up to fit with the theme of the room, and provide more of a relaxed atmosphere for the guests to be in.
A good caterer is one who will be versatile to your needs. The Abbey can create custom menus for your guests to make sure your reception goes with a bang.
Chiavari “Special” at Cuvier Club!
Posted by: Chris Campbell
March 9th, 2011 >> Abbey Vendors, Events, Other, Promotions, Tablescapes, Trends, Weddings
The Abbey Catering is running a promotional special at La Jolla’s newest Venue… Cuvier Club. If you select The Abbey Catering as your caterer or event design company, The Abbey Catering will include up to 150 mahogany chiavari chairs with white cushions complimentary for your reception.
Please feel free to contact Rob Leszewski directly at (619)204-1192 or rob@theabbeycatering.com to take advantage of this wonderful special or for any more information. We’ve got plenty more to offer and please feel free to mention this blog posting for an extra discount on your custom proposal as well.
We’re always running specials and discounts to better accommodate, and currently we’re also offering them for preferred venues. Just give me a call or email and I’ll be sure to do my best. Thanks in advance!!!
Table with White Chavari Chairs
Chavari Chairs in Mohagany
Gold Chavari Chairs with white cushions
The Abbey would love to help you add more elegance to your already beautiful day with our signature Chiavari chairs, ask the team for details.
A Different Kind of Reception…
Posted by: Chris Campbell
March 4th, 2011 >> Abbey staff, Events, From the Kitchen, Other, Promotions, Tablescapes, Trends, Weddings
Something Old
Sometimes couples want a different type of wedding. A little change from the norm. Most weddings have structured tables and chairs, seating for all guests, and the usual. Not to say that’s a bad thing… that’s how my wedding was for over 300 guests. But now “flow reception’s” are becoming much more popular. There are no rules really, just whatever you want and envisioned for your reception.
LoungeSeating
Typically, we’ll arrange for seating for approximately 25-50% of your guest count. I can arrange for assorted sized tables from 48″ cocktail tables to seat 4-6, 60″ dining tables to sit 8-10, and Belly Bars to accommodate the rest of your guests standing comfortably with drinks and food. We can also arrange lounge furniture which is a HUGE hit at these type of events.
Something Borrowed and Blue
For the food, we try to go with the same theme. Tray-passed appetizers for the Cocktail Hour, Stations with a variety of options served in smaller portions so your guests can continue from one station to the next. All in all everything’s ultimately up to you and we’re here to accommodate in any way. It’s YOUR wedding after all.
Appetizers to Die For!
Appetizers Galore
Specially Catered food for all your guest
The Abbey would love to help you plan your big day, and we work with many of the top venues in San Diego and other locations to make your wedding dreams come true.
Before You Confirm-Top FAQ’s
Posted by: Chris Campbell
March 2nd, 2011 >> Abbey staff, Events, Other, Weddings
Before You Confirm, list the top most frequently asked questions by patrons of our establishment. We hope these FAQS help you, in making a prompt decision for us, to help make your dreams come true..for your perfect wedding day or event.
Signing the contract
1. Why should I choose your All-Inclusive Wedding Package?
-Great question. Our All-Inclusive Package offers you the ability to one-stop-shop choosing from a diverse list of qualified Vendors. Each Vendor has been hand selected to deliver the highest quality product and communication. Our Vendors offer a reduced rate through our All-Inclusive that translates into savings for you . Also, the level of communication and continuity is great with a well honed team of professionals.
2. What are my Captains responsibilities?
-Your Captain is your go-to person throughout the planning process. Their first duty is to the management of your food & beverage. They schedule a meeting with you 1 month prior to your day to discuss your floor-plan, timeline, rentals, and final menu. They arrive on-site 3 hours prior to your start time and manage their team to execute flawless service. They are also the last to leave to ensure that your Venue of choice is left in its original condition.
3. What are my Coordinators duties?
-If you elect to have a Coordinator, many of the Pre-Wedding Day responsibilities listed above are transferred to your Coordinator. The one major difference is that your Day Of Coordinator will be communicating with your Vendors to assure a seamless execution of the Time-line. They oversee your Captain and their team to guarantee your expectations are met.They will attend a Rehearsal and be your Personal Assistant on your Day.
4. For my All-Inclusive Package, will I have a choice of my Vendors?
-Yes, each option on your Package has several Vendors to choose from. For example, we work with 4 Photography Studios , 2 of which have multiple photographers. I recommend contacting them as soon as you confirm, to verify that you find the right person to fit your needs.
5. What is the price difference for a seated service versus a buffet?
-We don’t charge differently for a seated service. The one change would be a necessary addition of servers to accommodate your guests needs. This would be determined ahead of time but adjusted to your final guest-count.
6. What if my guest count changes after I confirm.
-Inevitably your guest count will change. Your final count is due 10 days prior to your Day so your Invoice will reflect your Final Guest Count, Rentals, and Updated Staff Count.
7. Are rentals included?
-No, the reason being that several venues do have some to offer you. This also allows you the option to fully customize your rental package to your needs. Ask your salesperson to get you an estimate for rentals and it can be added to your Invoice pending your final decisions.
8. When should I schedule my Tasting?
-This is entirely up to you. Many of our Clients elect to have their Tasting close to when their scheduling their Vendor Meeting. That way, everything is fresh in their mind just weeks before their Day.
9. What are the restrictions on the Limo in your Package?
- You get the Limo for a 4 hour period, on your Day, and it can be broken up one time. This allows you to get picked up, brought to your Ceremony, and delivered to your Reception. This is a good point for that break to enjoy your reception and afterwards, hop in the Abbey Limo and be whisked away to your final destination. We have 1 Limo on staff, if you are interested in this as an Option, reserve it immediately.
10. My fiance and I love your Menu, we have a special dish that I don’t see, how can you help me?
- Many of our Brides and Grooms come from different family backgrounds. They want to see both Cultures represented on their day. The Abbey is a fully Custom Caterer that can produce dishes specific to your needs. With a stellar Team of Chefs, your day can be customized completely to please all of your guests.
Click here to find out more about The Abbey’s FAQs and how The Abbey can make your dream wedding a very magical, very special day..
Abbey Wedding Experience
Posted by: Chris Campbell
February 28th, 2011 >> Abbey staff, Other, Preferred Venues, Weddings
AbbeyTeam
I just wanted to give a quick run-down of what you can come to expect upon confirming with The Abbey Catering & Event Design Co. -First and foremost you should have had a wonderful experience with your Salesperson and he/she should have made themselves available to you at your convenience with quick and efficient responses to any questions or revisions you might have had via email or phone. -After confirming with 25% deposit and signing of the initial proposal, on or before your wonderful customized Tasting, we continue moving on to the next steps. Please note that you’re initial proposal “never” ends up being the same as when your wedding/event takes place. We make sure that two week’s before the event; your correct guest count, rentals, etc. are all accounted for so that you only pay for what you’re expecting, not what you originally agreed upon +/- 12 months before the event itself. Our Director of Special Events will be contacting you within one week of your confirmation for a complimentary Design Consultation and to discuss any additional needs as necessary. -From there the Abbey Team, will introduce you to your Coordinator and/or Event Captain as your primary contact. Your Coordinator or Event Captain will be available with unlimited telephone and email correspondence throughout the process and most importantly, be the person there on-site on your event day. Basically, that’s our standard procedure with no compromises made, but it can’t be said enough that you are more than welcome, even encouraged, to contact your Salesperson, Coordinator, or Event Captain with any questions you might have throughout. We’re certainly all here to ensure that you feel taken care of your expectations are ALWAYS being met.
The Abbey would love to help you plan your big day, and we work with many of the top venues in San Diego to make your wedding dreams come true.
Come to be our Guest, Put our Service to The Test
Posted by: Chris Campbell
November 30th, 2010 >> Events
What a day! Nearly 100 clients, doctors, colleagues and family gathered together on this Tuesday in November to celebrate a grand opening of the new Elite Orthodontics offices in San Diego. To ensure the best quality of the food, presentation and professionalism, Dr. Nader hired The Abbey Catering & Event Design. This three hour cocktail party, with open bar and delicious tray passed appetizers, was a delight and a great start to the new beginning. We would like to thank our clients once again for helping us be a part of such a special day, please keep spreading the beauty. We wish you a lot of success in your new business!
Contact The Abbey today and let us show you what we can do with your event!
The client
State of the art facilities
At The Abbey Catering & Event Design, we’ve long been known as a pioneer in food quality and presentation. Hand in hand is the excellent quality and personable nature of our service staff. Dressed professionally in black attire, our servers will accommodate your every need. From the moment of arrival your guests will see the team expertly setting and serving the reception room. They will be carefully orchestrated to treat your guests to the finest of appetizers and offer superb communication about the flow of your event. It is a true pleasure to work with so many unique and gifted individuals. Know that we will prepare the finest in cuisine, and know that it will be delivered by a smiling and accommodating professional.
Contact us here to find out more about our experienced servers and expertly-crafted cuisine.
Our serving staff
The holidays are here
It’s that time of year where the holidays just keep coming! If you’re anything like me, today has seen you slaving over a hot stove for the first part of the day, and then groaning on the couch from over-eating by the second part. On occasions like this it can seems like the day has just flown by, which makes this the perfect time to start considering a catered event with The Abbey for the next part of the holiday season.
We can take the stress out of cooking, the mess out of dining and the repetitiveness from eating the same weary menu as last year with our wide range of catering options. These can be personalized to match to the needs of your group, with not a single grumble or groan to be heard.
We can even provide you with decor, photography, videography, venue rental, DJs, and more to give you everything you need to breathe life into your next holiday event.