Food For Thought, an event-planning and catering company in Chicago, likes to go beyond the traditional plate when it comes to working a corporate event or group gathering. From grand galas and cocktail receptions to intimate dinners and in-office meetings, the company is just about limitless to the types of happenings it can cater. Food For Thought serves not only downtown Chicago but also the surrounding suburbs, as well as destinations beyond state borders through its AFAR division.
“Our team loves stretching the ordinary,” says Michelle Holdeman, vice president of sales and development. “Our Food For Thought creative hub and design center enables our team to brainstorm, research, and collaborate—we want the food presentation to be inspiring.” By placing priority on guest experience and engagement, the Food For Thought team creates one-of-a-kind encounters between attendees and their fare. “It could be a drink wall, a rolling cart with a tasting portion, food hanging from a metal rod, or custom trays pulling in the theme of your event,” Holdeman describes.
From groups of 10 to 3,000, Food For Thought can make any gathering feel exclusive, pulling on culinary trends, mixology, and striking presentation methods to bring out just the right aesthetic. “No matter the reason for the event, guests do want to have fun,” Holdeman adds. “People want to interact and be a part of the food and beverage experience. … The brand should speak through the catering and be an extension of how the client wants the guests to feel about their brand.”