Wonderful Winter Warming Recipes

Slow roasted lamb with Radicchio and grilled rosemary crumbs

The ingredients and the cooking methods in this dish read like a description of the flavour of a good, rustic, earthy red wine made from Grenache. The sweet fattiness and pungency of the lamb itself echo the inherent sweetness and perfume of the Grenache grape. The deep savoury earthiness is there in the root vegetables, deepened by the addition of butter, and in the dry starchiness of the borlotti beans.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp currants
• 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 60 ml(¼ cup) olive oil
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• ½ cup rosemary, coarsely chopped
• 250 gm coarse breadcrumbs from day-old sourdough
• 60 gm parmesan, finely grated
• 45 gm (¼ cup) pine nuts
• 1 boneless lamb leg (about 1.5kg)
• 125 ml dry white wine
• 2 heads of Radicchio, washed and pulled apart

Method:

1. Soak currants in 2 tbsp vinegar in a bowl (30 minutes).
2. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat, and onion and garlic, stir occasionally until tender (7-8 minutes), add ½ rosemary, stir until fragrant (1-2 minutes) and set aside to cool.
3. Add 1/2 breadcrumbs, parmesan, pine nuts and currant mixture, stir to combine and season to taste.
4. Preheat oven to 150C.
5. Place lamb leg on a work surface, press stuffing over lamb, season to taste and roll to enclose stuffing. Tie with kitchen string, place in a casserole, add wine, cover and roast until tender (4-5 hours).
6. With the other ½ breadcrumbs and rosemary toss in a hot pan with olive oil, allow to crisp and brown and set aside.
7. Place washed Radicchio in an earthen and dress with remaining red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper.
8. Finally dress with rosemary breadcrumbs and serve.

Damn Fudgiest Brownie Ever

Ingredients:

• 250 grams good-quality chocolate
• ¾ cup butter, melted
• 1¼ cups sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon salt

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F/180°C.
2. Chop the chocolate into chunks. Melt half, then save the other half for later.
3. Mix the butter and the sugar, then beat in the eggs and vanilla for 1-2 minutes until the mixture has become fluffy and light in colour.
4. Whisk in the reserved melted chocolate (make sure the chocolate is not too hot or else the eggs will cook), then sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
5. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix as this will cause the brownies to be more cake-like in texture.
6. Fold in the chocolate chunks, then transfer the batter into a parchment paper-lined square baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, depending on how fudgy you like your brownies, then cool completely.
8. Slice, then serve with a nice cold glass of milk!

Christmas in July Recipe

For many, the anticipation of a juicy turkey roasting patiently while jovial banter ensues is a treat at Christmas time. However, in South Africa, as it is in Australia, they can’t snuggle up cosily by the fire awaiting the big lunch but they can enjoy the sunny skies and, with this recipe for turkey on the Weber, they can even take the cooking outdoors.

We thought that this year we would give you an interesting rendition of the faithful Christmas Turkey by going to the African continent for a sizzling idea, whether it’s on a balcony apartment or in the great Australian backyard, this is a recipe that will please all and brings an interesting take on the tradition and allows us to at least try and enjoy a Winter tradition, even if we are celebrating Christmas in July!!!

INGREDIENTS:

• One 4-5 kg turkey
• 1/2 cup of butter
• Salt and pepper
• One handful fresh sage leaves
• Two oranges

PREPARATION:

1. Prepare your Weber.
2. Season the turkey inside and out with salt and pepper. Soften the butter, add the grated rind of one orange and a couple of sage leaves.
3. Carefully loosen the skin over the turkey breast and push the flavoured butter in the cavity you’ve made. Squeeze the oranges over the turkey. Stuff the turkey cavity with the oranges and left over sage leaves.
4. Place bird breast side up on grill directly above drip pan.
5. Cover the bird, leaving all the vents open.
6. Cook meat until meat near thighbone is no longer pink.
7. Total cooking time should be 3 to 3 1/2 hours.

During the last half hour of cooking, baste turkey with melted butter regularly.

End of Financial Year Deal

Yes, it’s that time of the year again and its brrrr cold, chilly and the skies are looking as grey as they ever have…

For those of us not jetting away to the sunnier continents for some well-deserved fun in the sun, we have put together some great ideas so you can bring the fun to you and not have to venture out in this winter madness.

For an all-inclusive package of just $89.00 we will bring you a warming, delicious cocktail party with no fuss, no umbrellas and no cleaning afterwards.

#EOFYDEAL

Tailored canapé menu (6 bites + 1 substantial canape per guest)

Blanc beverage package 3 hours

Professional wait staff and function supervisor

A dedicated Event Planner to coordinate and assist with the finer details of your event

Package is based on a minimum number of 60 guest

Valid – 1st June 2017 through to the 31st of July 2017.

Contact us today to get more information on this deal or book your event today!

Casual Wedding Catering

Weddings may stay the same, but catering trends are always changing. Shared banquets and platters are becoming more popular at our events compared to serving one or two main dishes to guests at their tables. This casual dinner trend is also perfect for corporate events.

Sharing Plates and Platters

Large sharing plates and platters have been the trend lately. Especially at a wedding reception, the hosts want to make the night a celebration of food as well as a marriage.

Sharing big platters provides guests a gastronomic experience - it allows them to taste a range of food choices in small amounts rather than the usual two-dish servings. This way, everyone can cater to their own tastes and try some new things!

For weddings, the idea of sharing platters may benefit you in the following ways: It makes your function feel relaxed. Menus can provide a great conversation starter. It gives you time to really enjoy the food with family and friends. Guests can remain seated the entire meal, perfect for a venue that does not hold extra space.

 

Did you ask for paella for 400 #yesplease #eventplanning #laissez_faire_catering #cocktails #unique #events #paella #spanish #food #biggestpaellaever

A post shared by Laissez-faire Catering (@laissez_faire_catering) on Dec 3, 2016 at 4:30am PST

Making your shared platter event successful

Aside from the value of the event itself, the food choices and food presentation matter. The secret lies in choosing and designing a platter with the right food and right flavour that will work well for your event.

What to include:

• Add protein items but spice up with adventurous dipping sauces.
• Try themed platters.
• Include hand-held and easy to eat appetizers.
• Include options for those who are vegetarians or have a gluten free diet.
• Go local - include local produce and flavours in the menu.

 

Shared platers #privatevents #events #ANMM #eventcatering

A post shared by Laissez-faire Catering (@laissez_faire_catering) on Jul 18, 2015 at 12:07am PDT

Aside from this, you can ask your caterer for the best possible shared platter menus that can be served for the event you have in mind.

Grazing Stations

Moving on, the next trend in casual dinners is grazing stations. Grazing stations are usually set up in a room where guests are convening before the proper dinner begins. What is usually served is a variety of snacks, nibbles and drinks.

One can opt to include light bites from breads, dips, cheeses to deli meats. Grazing stations can balance cuisines that represents the culture of the wedding families or an organisation. This is a hit at any event since it mirrors the wonderful diversity of Sydney.

Prior to the main event, grazing stations can provide an engaging way for guests to start the party. It can also help entertain guests in case some delays are happening. Plus grazing stations are flexible. You can include a few of your choices as well as incorporate recommendations from your caterer.

 

Sweet apart to spring at Inglis stables tonight #venues #event #wedding #inglisstables #laissezfaire

A post shared by Laissez-faire Catering (@laissez_faire_catering) on Sep 3, 2016 at 7:21am PDT

Options for grazing stations

You can easily go casual or gourmet with grazing stations.

Here are some ideas:

• Champagne and oyster bar.
• Donut deli.
• Charcuterie.
• Mexican (taco, quesadillas, nachos).
• Asian (sushi and sashimi).
• Fruits.
• Italian (antipasto).
• Sweet treats.

And many others. Grazing stations let you get really creative.

 

Sushi station #anmm #catering #laissez_faire_catering #pirates #anmmuseum

A post shared by Laissez-faire Catering (@laissez_faire_catering) on Dec 14, 2015 at 10:34pm PST

Now, the point of events is not only to provide the best food there is. The social side of gatherings is now put into focus. So make sure that you provide the best food and provide the best experience for your guests too.

How To Select the Best Venue for Your Next Event

So you've got a corporate or private event coming up. Inviting guests, organising the catering and deciding on a theme are all important aspects of event planning, but many event planners and hosts are stumped when it comes to finding the right venue for their event.

Space, decor and locale all combine to make a great venue. At Laissez-faire, we want to take the stress out of your event planning. That's why we've put together these top 5 venues for your event brochures depending on the type of event you are having. So if you're planning a cocktail. dinner or corporate event, we've got you covered! Scroll down and click on the brochures to download them. 

Cocktail Events

Dinner Events

Conference Events

If you'd like more information about any of these venues,  feel free to contact us or check out our venue listings.

Hot Autumn Ideas

As with every month and indeed every season, temperatures, moods and foods all change and it’s about the way we adapt to those changes and how we draw on them for inspiration that makes the changes new and exciting.

Take this canape we recently created for an event, instead of just a blue cheese, pear and walnut canape, we crisped some beautiful pieces of sweet potato and smothered them with a glorious gorgonzola, nashi pear, walnuts and toasted thyme leaves, sensational.

If you’re having a fall dinner party and want to add a table decoration without going the full monty then why not try this? One or two rosemary twigs could become a great personal addition to a fall table setting that also smells great, tied together with raffia or offcuts of ribbon makes for an easy fix with a glamorous touch. By personalising a name tag and adding this to your rosemary really ups the game on your party, why not?

And now... #totesdelishchickpotpies

INGREDIENTS

• 50g salted butter
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 500g skinless chicken thighs
• 4 rashers rindless bacon, chopped
• 1 leek, sliced
• 250g button mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves crushed garlic
• 1/3 cup plain flour
• 2 cups good quality chicken stock
• 1/2 cup corn kernels
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons cream
• 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 sheets careme puff pastry, each cut into 4 circles or squares

METHOD

1. Melt 20g butter and oil in a large non-stick frypan, panfry chicken until cooked through. Remove, stand for 5 minutes before shredding or roughly chopping.
2. Melt remaining butter in same frypan and sauté bacon, leek, mushrooms and garlic over medium heat until leek is softened and bacon is slightly golden and caramelised.
3. Add flour and cook, stirring continuously for 30 seconds. Remove from heat and gradually stir in stock. Add chicken, corn and seasonings and cook until mixture thickens and comes to the boil. Simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat. Transfer to bowl, stir in cream and parsley and cool. Refrigerate until cold.
4. Divide filling between 6 x 1 cup capacity ovenproof dishes or ramekins. Brush edges of dishes with egg. Place pastry on ramekin, with a little overhanging, brush pastry with egg and make a slit in pastry to allow steam to escape. Bake at 200°C for 25-30 minutes or until puffed and golden.

Australian National Maritime Museum - The Wildlife Photographer of the Year

Be inspired. Reconnect with the wonder of nature through the magic of photography. Once a year we have the unique opportunity of working with the gallery and the exhibition to offer this artistic space as an event destination, it offers a truly wonderful and immersive opportunity to be a part of a WORLD-WIDE EXHIBIT!! See below for an exclusive offer.

Laissez-faire will deliver perfect food and beverage solutions tailored specifically for your event - from cool cocktails to stylish dinners, you'll be impressed by the variety of menu options, willingness to collaborate and the high standards of service delivery.

Take a journey into the secret places of the world around us. Witness the extraordinary talent of photographers who travel to the ends of the earth to capture the fleeting moments that say so much about the majesty of nature - and often, our complicated place in it.

The Wildlife Photographer of the Year - run by the Natural History Museum in London - is a global celebration of the world's very best nature photography.

Judged by a panel of international experts, winning images are selected for their creativity, originality and technical excellence. The competition is open to the world's top professionals, as well as amateurs - who sometimes create big surprises!

Our $100 pp inclusive offer this month:

Exclusive gallery access

Tailored canapé menu (12 bites per guest)

Blanc beverage package 3 hours

Professional wait staff and function supervisor

Cocktail tables

A dedicated Event Planner to coordinate and assist with the finer details of your event

Contact Us About This Offer

Harbour 220 EOFY Super Duper Deal!

We’re making it really easy this year, just let us know how many people are coming!

HARBOUR 220

3-hour canape service

4-hour blanc beverage service

venue hire + staff

$89.00pp,  some conditions apply

With stunning views of Sydney Harbour and overlooking the Botanical Gardens, Harbour 220 is exclusive and intimate. Located on the 15th floor of the Hudson Building on Macquarie Street in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, this venue is ideal for corporate and private functions and is available for evening events, from cool cocktails to stylish dinners.

The pillarless ballroom has a capacity of up to 100 guests for a sit-down event, including a pre-drinks bar area designed to welcome and entertain guests with elegance and sophistication. A newly refurbished balcony also features. Laissez-faire will deliver perfect food and beverage solutions tailored specifically for your event - from cool cocktails to stylish dinners, you'll be impressed by the variety of menu options, willingness to collaborate and the high standards of service delivery.

Contact Us About This Offer

Contact Us About This Offer

Breakfast Catering Made Easy With Our Top 3 Most Requested Dishes

Breakfast events seem to be the new trend in the business and corporate world. Whether it’s for a client meeting, a board meeting or just a company catch up, the most important meal of the day is increasingly becoming a popular choice among corporate companies and even private organisations. So why choose a breakfast event for your office?

 

Healthy breakfast box to start your day #breakfast #health #catering#catering #events #ontherun

A post shared by Laissez-faire Catering (@laissez_faire_catering) on Oct 28, 2016 at 12:50am PDT

Reasons why many are turning to breakfast catering

There are two important reasons why events held during breakfast are refreshing and psychologically stimulating. One, people are most alert, awake and productive early in the morning; two, holding an event for people during this time will be a good idea since you will not be interrupting their work during the day.

As it soars in popularity, many are now preferring breakfast meetings over lunches in the business world. In a survey conducted by OnePoll, it was found that meetings hosted in the mornings have more positive outcomes since people pay more attention to the agenda at this time. Plus, any corporate or even private event hosted during the morning is more cost-effective than lunch.

The idea of mornings also expresses informality and a more relaxed style which at some point can set an easy tone and help establish business relationships fast.

You may need to hurdle another problem though, not all of your workers are morning people. Carefully planning this to your advantage will make a great start for everybody’s day.

 

Fancy a chai latte this morning? Come on and enjoy the view #coffeeaddict #coffee #catering #anmmuseum #anmm #sydney #greysydney

A post shared by Laissez-faire Catering (@laissez_faire_catering) on Feb 3, 2016 at 12:43pm PST

Breakfast menus you can try

The idea of starting the day with good breakfast can fuel people up especially those who will be facing a long day. You can check your caterer’s menu in advance and make reservations. And of course understanding your guests food preferences will help in making the event a success. Will it be simplified? Caffeine fueled? Gluten free? With lots of add-ons? A brunch?

Here at Laissez-faire, one of our top favourites from the breakfast menu is the acai smoothie. As an all organic breakfast boost, customers find it refreshing and energy giving choice in one go. This goes together with other choices of our clients like the crisp bacon and egg pies which are paired with Heinz ketchup - an easy to eat option for those on the run. Other breakfast option that are topping our bill include the three below:

• Croque monsieur of honey glazed ham, béchamel, gruyere cheese and a fried egg with a tomato chilli jam
• Corn fritters with crispy bacon, roasted roma tomatoes, smashed avocado, and sour cream
• Mango smoothies with banana and acai

Now, try considering these in your options and give your breakfast meetings an instant boost. Or you may opt for other breakfast choices like themed breakfasts or ethnic breakfast dishes. And if you are enjoying this too much and you want breakfast menus any time of the day, brinner (breakfast dinner), can be an option too.

Check out our other healthy and flavoursome breakfasts on Instagram.

Click below to get our breakfast menu - have a happy and productive breakfast

Venue Spotlight: Harbour 220

We are absolutely loving this venue right now. 

With stunning views of Sydney Harbour and overlooking the Opera House and Botanical Gardens, this venue is exclusive, intimate and high class. Harbour 220 boasts a pillarless ballroom with the capacity to seat 100 guests comfortably, including a pre-drinks bar area designed to welcome your guests and entertain them with elegance and sophistication before and after every event.

Located on the 15th floor of the Hudson Building on Macquarie Street in the heart of Sydney CBD, it is ideal for corporate and private functions and is available for all day and all night events, from cool cocktails, fresh lunches to stylish dinners. Laissez-faire will complement your booking with a variety of menu options, willingness to collaborate and high standards of service delivery.

We are   offering an extraordinary deal for this venue!  
For any booking confirmed before June 30th, 2017,  Laissez-faire will offer 50% off the recommended rack rate of venue hire
Find out more information on this offer here

Image Gallery

Take a look at these stunning photos and imagine how your own event could look in this incredible space.

View more images here!

Easter ideas to keep your table looking fun and fresh

It seems like we are constantly moving from one celebratory season to another and they come around so quickly. No sooner have we finished Christmas and the scorching summer that we have endured and loved, but now it’s time for the Easter Bunny to rear its chocolate head.

If you’re looking for something sweet, but not the chocolate kind of sweet, how about adding darling cut-outs with a knot of raffia around your linen napkins on the table to really up the ante of festive fun.

Freesia’s and Hyacinths would be two of our go-to seasonal flowers during the Easter celebrations. Potted Hyacinths offer dramatic colours and a beautiful fragrance that will immediately energise your table and bring a chic air of elegance to any entertaining you have on the calendar.

Hot Cross Bun Recipe

INGREDIENTS

• 475g strong white flour, plus extra for dusting
• 25g good-quality cocoa powder
• 1 tsp ground mixed spice
• 1 tsp salt
• 85g chilled unsalted butter, chopped
• 100g golden caster sugar, plus 50g extra to glaze
• 2 x 7g sachets dried yeast
• 1 large free-range egg
• 190ml lukewarm milk
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil, plus extra for greasing
• 75g raisins (optional)
• 75g milk chocolate, chopped
• Finely grated zest and juice of 1 orange
• 75g chopped candied peel

METHOD

1. Sift 400g of the flour, the cocoa powder, mixed spice and salt into a bowl. Add the butter and, with your fingertips, rub together until the mix resembles fine breadcrumbs. Stir in the sugar and dried yeast, then form a well in the centre. Whisk the egg and milk together and pour into the well. Quickly mix with a wooden spoon to incorporate.

2.  Knead on a lightly floured surface for 10 minutes until soft and silky. Shape into a ball. Put in a large, lightly oiled bowl, covered with cling film. Leave for 1½ hours in a warm place, loosely covered with greased cling film, until doubled in size.

3. Remove the risen dough to a lightly floured surface, flatten slightly, then knead in the raisins (optional), chocolate, zest and candied peel, until everything is evenly distributed.

4. Divide into 12 equal pieces (about 100g each) and shape into smooth-surfaced buns. Place in rows on a lightly oiled baking tray, leaving a little gap between each. Cover loosely with lightly oiled cling film and leave to prove in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size again. The buns should now be touching each other. Preheat the oven to 200°C/fan180°C/gas 6.

5. With a serrated knife, score the tops of the buns with a cross. Mix the remaining 75g flour with 1 tbsp. oil and 5 tbsp. cold water to a smooth paste, then spoon into a piping bag (or a small, clear, sturdy plastic bag with the corner snipped off).

6.  Carefully pipe the mixture in lines along the knife scores on the buns, going first one way, then the other, using a knife to stop the flow. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes until risen and firm to the touch.

7.  Meanwhile, put the remaining sugar into a pan with the orange juice. Put over a low heat until it has dissolved. Bring to the boil and bubble for 2 minutes until thickened.

8.  Remove the buns from the oven and turn out onto a rack. Glaze with the syrup and serve warm or cold.

Check out some more Easter decor ideas below!

Harbour 220

With stunning views of Sydney Harbour and overlooking the Botanical Gardens, Harbour 220 is exclusive and intimate. Located on the 15th floor of the Hudson Building on Macquarie Street in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, this venue is ideal for corporate and private functions and is available for evening events, from cool cocktails to stylish dinners.

The pillarless ballroom has a capacity of up to 100 guests for a sit-down event, including a pre-drinks bar area designed to welcome and entertain guests with elegance and sophistication. A newly refurbished balcony also features.

Laissez-faire will deliver perfect food and beverage solutions tailored specifically for your event - from cool cocktails to stylish dinners, you'll be impressed by the variety of menu options, willingness to collaborate and the high standards of service delivery. 

As a valued client, we will be offering an extraordinary deal to coincide with our Autumn newsletter. For any booking confirmed before June 30th, 2017,  Laissez-faire will offer 50% off the recommended rack rate of venue hire. 

All day events from 8:00am - 5:00pm $1350.00

All evening events from 6:00pm - 12:00am $1750.00

And to make it that little more enticing... and NO, we're not going to throw in a set of steak knives. We will offer a complimentary upgrade on all beverage packages*.

* Minimum numbers apply to evening events.

Check out these beautiful images of Harbour 220!

Corporate Family Carnival at Centennial Parklands

We recently had the exciting and monumental challenge of hosting a corporate family day at Centennial Parklands, the logistical planning of organising an event for over 4000 guests proved that we stand behind our quality and consistency of our product, our clients gave us glowing reviews and the abundance, quality and sheer variety of food ensured that EVERY single guest left our event absolutely satiated.

Imagine if you can, a carnival style atmosphere with themed stations providing international flavours and delicious morsels to taste. We cleverly positioned a variety of ten different food stations covering a multitude of cuisines.

Our street style Barcelona paella bars were a smash, with both a traditional Catalan Paella that had the crowd’s tummies rumbling as we started the sofrito to ensure an authentic and delicious dish, alongside a more Valencia “beach” style vegetable paella. We spent days preparing the fresh artichokes and the product was absolutely mouth-watering.

Complimenting the Spanish cuisine, we also had traditional Napoli style pizza bars, producing crisp based, piping hot pizzas with fresh mozzarella and a simple selection of truly classic favourites.

Clearly the new trend in food and making a huge hit at our events, we have harnessed the Ottolenghi bug and gone all Tripoli with our Lebanese bars, fresh pitta, piping hot, homemade falafels, lamb kofta, hummus, tabouli and yoghurt dips. We dressed the tables with beautiful glazed earthenware, luscious pomegranates and lemons on the branch, which we felt really tied the station together, it smelt great and looked chic!

And if we couldn’t make it any more Moorish… we finished the event with Spanish style donuts. Try conjuring up a selection of vanilla glazed, salted chocolate chip cookie, caramel popcorn, Malteser and the time honoured “Nutella" and then try saying NO... Couldn’t do it right???

Annual Corporate Dinner Themes 

Annual corporate dinners are regular features for most companies. It becomes a night for showcasing new products, networking, an opportunity to reward employees, celebrate a milestone, present new people or just a social event that can bring everybody together which is rare for larger companies.

Over the years, the idea of organising for events like this have changed. It has evolved into something more exciting and something that an organisation looks forward too. Companies try their best to experiment on entertainment options, catering, themes, and venues.

We think themes make corporate events even more special.

Why hold themed annual dinners?

Here are some reasons why you should organise an annual themed dinner:

#1 It creates buzz

It builds up excitement for everybody. That is if the theme is chosen well. The talk can spread and generate more audience and will assist in the marketing of that event later on. And you can create themes from anything you fancy.

#2 Use the theme to show the purpose of the event

Companies can use a theme to relate back to the reason for the dinner. It ties the whole event together. Whether it’s just the colour palette or the dress or the decoration, the theme can act as a unifier.

#3 It promotes social sharing

People will literally snap hundreds of photos at a fun and instagrammable event. So imagine the social media exposure you can get from this. Creating impact around your annual dinner can help it spread on social media.

Theme ideas for your next annual dinner

#1 Seasonal themed dinner

The idea of dressing up for each of the seasons is different and can be done any time of the year. Plus it can offer more ideas for decorating. And the food choices for this theme can be seasonal as well. Choose a venue that can showcase it well and you are good to go.

 

A post shared by Laissez-faire Catering (@laissez_faire_catering) on Feb 23, 2017 at 7:55pm PST

#2 Brand themed dinners

There’s no such thing as too extravagant if your aim is to revolve the party around your brand. Why not, right? Brand themed dinners creates the psychology of oneness. Incorporating your company logo and design to the decor, the food design and the entertainment can create one fun dinner party.

This helps you, as an organisation to stay focused on the objectives and on the idea of your company as a whole as well. Remember, brand identity sells and will make your guests happy they are part of something so great.

 

A post shared by Laissez-faire Catering (@laissez_faire_catering) on Oct 27, 2016 at 8:53pm PDT

#3 Sustainable themed dinners

Have you ever been to a sustainable themed dinner? It adds to the value of the event. In the world where many businesses try to promote sustainability in the office and at home, a themed dinner like this can create a big impact not only on the organisation but on your social media followers as well. You can include this in your objective as well as a company. All decor must be central to sustainability. Recyclable utensils, no plastic and the idea of after party leftovers being composted is a good goal.

 

A post shared by Laissez-faire Catering (@laissez_faire_catering) on Mar 29, 2017 at 5:42pm PDT

For food, including sustainable produce for catering is a great and delicious idea.

#4 Era themed dinners

Era themed dinners never seem to get old and still excite everybody. Plus, there are so many eras to choose from. You can go futuristic, 1950’s, or maybe 1970’s. You have lots of choices. For this, choose a venue that can be transformed to fit your theme as well.

 

A post shared by Laissez-faire Catering (@laissez_faire_catering) on Feb 16, 2017 at 9:12pm PST

#5 Entertainment themed dinners

Remember that James Bond themed dinner you saw on our Instagram? You can pull it off too for your event. It’s easy and a nice way to cater the event for everybody. Other choices include Wizard of Oz, Harry Potter, Academy Awards, Casablanca, old Hollywood, etc. It will create excitement and will give everybody something to talk about during the event and even after it happened.

So, have you chosen your annual dinner theme?

Hot Locations

We know that you're all looking for the next big thing, the newest venue, the hottest place to socialise and communicate your brand message in our urban jungle, our beautiful Sydney. Well we’re happy to make a new introduction;  The Venue should be on your radar. It's hip, it's big, it's new and it’s a hop, skip and a jump from the CBD.

We also thought you would appreciate an update and refresh of the Chinese Gardens. Now that the ICC SYDNEY has opened and construction down this end of town is done and dusted (well for the next 5 minutes at least) we wanted to ensure this private garden paradise is back in your event destination thought process.

THE VENUE

Alexandria NSW 2015

Sydney's Newest Premium Warehouse Event Space

Located conveniently between Sydney’s International Airport and the CBD, we offer clients a large, flexible warehouse space with 5 star amenities catering to a wide variety of events including gala dinners, product launches, fashion parades, conferences, corporate functions, weddings and community events.

With a capacity of 1,000 guests for a dinner, cocktail style or conferencing, flexibility is the key to our space. We will offer a unique opportunity to dress the interior to create your own event with the industrial warehouse look.

CHINESE GARDENS

Darling Harbour NSW 2000

Nestled in the heart of Darling Harbour, the Chinese Garden of Friendship offers a slice of traditional China in the heart of Sydney. Modelled after the lavish private gardens of the Ming Dynasty, which ruled China from the 14th to the 17th century, the Chinese Gardens where built to celebrate the friendship between Australia and China. Renowned as one of the best Chinese gardens in the world outside of China they have become a popular destination for weddings and celebrations.

The landscape of the gardens is stunning. The garden was designed with traditional Taoist beliefs that stress the importance of infusing Qi, the essential force of life and energy into the garden. In order to achieve Qi, every plant is hand-picked and the landscape is intricately designed to reflect aspects of nature and harmony.

Guests can wonder the hidden stone paths and explore waterfalls, lakes and Chinese flora. Scattered throughout are garden pagodas and a large teahouse providing a truly unique and unforgettable event destination. As one of Laissez-faire Catering's favourite venues, the Chinese Gardens provide the ultimate backdrop for a wide range of events.

Planning your next Product Launch

A product launch is a great marketing move for any business wanting to get their new product out there and create interest. Take for example the buzz that big companies like Apple and Samsung create for their product launches. They’re huge, classy and cool events that can rake in millions of dollars.

This is because they know how to launch a product and they already have an established name in their industry. How about small, medium and large businesses devoid of the apple logo? How do you strategise, create excitement, attract audience and generate awe during your product launch?

It’s as simple as highlighting the day and the event together with the product. It’s about creating one event that can create impact offline and online. How?

Planning the launch

Generating brand awareness across platforms and channels is a must for any corporation or business planning to launch a new product. This means posting on social media, hinting at what is in store for the future. Get your audience talking about you.

 

Scallops #foodmadewithlove #unique #party #events #anmm #laissez_faire_catering #seafood #fresh

A post shared by Laissez-faire Catering (@laissez_faire_catering) on Dec 7, 2016 at 11:41pm PST

To increase your odds of getting noticed, let’s focus on the planning of the day itself - the venue, the food and the atmosphere. This should all be planned before you start talking about the product launch on social media or in email newsletters.

Use the venue to entice your audience

The event venue can make or break the atmosphere you want to create for your product launch. While many product launch events would suit an on-site atmosphere (in the company office or business place), holding an off-site event can add a sense of gravitas and more people are likely to be interested in attending if it isn’t being held at their regular 9 to 5 office.

Venues create impact. Choose one that can fit your ideal number of guests and consider one which will complement your brand’s goal. Here’s two of our top recommendations for product launches: Cell Block Theatre at the National Art School and Harbour 220.

Cell Block Theatre

The cathedral-like space of this venue is amazing and hard to find elsewhere. It’s historical and interesting. The venue also has an entertaining space outside, so your guests don’t have to be confined to the interior when it’s time to mingle and look around. Accommodating up to 350 for a cocktail event inside and an additional 400 for the courtyard, this venue is perfect for memorable product launches.

Find more information about Cell Block Theatre here.

Harbour 220

Harbour 220 on the other hand is an exclusive venue that suits a highly sophisticated atmosphere. This venue boasts impressive view and is well suited for an elegant product launch. It can be a venue for cocktails or even sit down dinners for up to 100 guests.

Find more information about Harbour 220 here.

Remember, these are just two gorgeous venues you can choose from. For other recommendations go to our list of stunning and functional venues here.

Choosing the right food and beverage

The dilemma with product launches is that cocktail and sit down dinner events both work. It all depends on what kind of atmosphere you are going for.

 

Gin, blackberry and lemon #catering #events #laissez_faire_catering #drinks #gin #gintonic

A post shared by Laissez-faire Catering (@laissez_faire_catering) on Jan 3, 2017 at 2:55am PST

A cocktail product launch encourages more socialisation and can feel more casual than a sit down dinner. After all, you need guests to move about and talk about your product right? You can come up with an impressive cocktail menu by asking your caterers for recommendation. Pairing drinks with delicious hors d'oeuvres will keep guests interested throughout the event.

 

Did you ask for paella for 400 #yesplease #eventplanning #laissez_faire_catering #cocktails #unique #events #paella #spanish #food #biggestpaellaever

A post shared by Laissez-faire Catering (@laissez_faire_catering) on Dec 3, 2016 at 4:30am PST

A sit down dinner product launch can feel more refined, and this means the event must have great food whether it’s platters or a three course meal. Your product demonstration or announcement might come in between meals, and there should be a signature drink you and your caterer have chosen for the event to compliment the meal.

Creating the right atmosphere

Create the right atmosphere with a theme. If your product launch is for a new tech gadget or software, use cool blue lighting and matching minimalist decor. If your product launch is for a new series of fashion items, play popular music and make sure the venue is bright enough to show off your product. Most importantly, accommodate your guests like royalty and they’ll never forget your product launch.

Check out our drinks menu for more ideas

Featured Event - Nautical Christmas Party

Event Brief

To create a cutting-edge End of Year Celebration with the WOW factor.

Our job was to ensure the entire experience was a fresh, upbeat and memorable cocktail party for every one of the 3500 people on the guest list.

The event was also designed to be management’s opportunity to express gratitude for the dedication shown by the staff throughout the year.

The Australian National Maritime Museum was transformed into a multi-zoned entertainment hub, with a central stage and performances on HMAS Vampire and HMAS Onslow.

With something for everyone, guests were provided with opportunities to mingle amongst their friends and colleagues and celebrate the end of a busy year.

For more information on The Australian National Maritime Museum, click here.

Wedding Food Trends in 2017, as Predicted by the Experts (us!)

Food is always a big part of any wedding, and this is what our brides want:

1. Seasonal Food

 Seasonal food, served family-style. As we all know, people are much more conscious about what they’re eating these days, so serving a good range of food (seasonal sides, salads, meats, crispy potatoes…) on big platters allow people to customise what ends up on their plate. It’s also a very social way to share and enjoy food.

2. Farm-to-table

Farm-to-table isn’t just the biggest trend in restaurants right now; it’s also the hottest thing in weddings. Nowadays, brides aren’t just asking for organic greens – they are asking for the exact farm that their greens came from. We are working with local farms to create the best menu and experience for the new-age bride.

3. Fancy Comfort Foods 

Who doesn’t love a delicious burger or some French fries? It doesn’t mean that you have to risk your wedding becoming more of a party than an elegant affair. Couples are loving comfort foods that are presented in innovative and elegant ways.

4. Bread and Butter

A selection of breads and flavored butters. We all love homemade butter and fresh-from-the-oven loaves of bread. This adds a special touch to any event.

The Island:  Floating Beach Bar on Sydney Harbour

Sydney does not lack stunning beaches, but the exclusivity that defines some of its finest beach party destinations means bookings are expensive and hard to come by in our beautiful city.

So, the team of Julian Tobias and Adam Abrams saw an opportunity and built a beach-themed venue that offers that exclusivity and 5-star service without the hassle. The result is The Island. It is a 350 square metre floating bar that can be positioned nearly anywhere on Sydney Harbour. The floating bar is pushed into place by a tugboat for weekend beach clubs and other events.

The Island brings a dose of European beach club culture designed to suit Sydney’s diverse locale. The floating party venue operates every weekend during the summer season. The patrons are shuttled to and from The Island by private water taxis out of Double Bay Wharf. The private taxis can accommodate up to 50 persons for the duration of the event.

Weekend events can also be arranged for corporate events, product launches, seminars and others. It’s also perfect for group parties looking to have fun away from the busy clubs on the mainland.

The venue also has a fully retractable roof and side covers to ensure complete coverage during wet weather. It also has the ability to be a very unique open air space. The Island has fantastic cocktail waitresses, a fully staffed bar and kitchen and some of Sydney’s best DJs have performed on The Island.

The Island has been in operation and providing unique, 5-star fun for 5 years now and they are willing to take on any event. The superb Island team has seen just about every type of party anyone can imagine, be it weddings, proposals or bachelor parties.

Some specifications and features of the floating beach bar include:

• 350 square metres of space
• Fully licensed and serviced cocktail bar
• Sea pool in the harbour
• State of the art sound system & DJ equipment
• Fully extendable roof for shelter from sun or rain
• Side covers to protect from wind & cooler temperatures
• The Island’s private water taxis at your service
• Ability to position anywhere on Sydney Harbour

Check out some more information about this venue here. 

Click below to access The Island catering menu:

Gather your friends, grab your favourite cocktail and watch the sun set over Sydney Harbour.

On-the-go Lunch Boxes for Working Lunches and Active Lifestyles

Lunch boxes aren’t just for school kids, workers need them too! If you’ve been to any long conference days, packing a lunch and some snacks can help the day go a little bit faster. What’s even better is if the conference hosts have lunches prepared for attendees.

No one wants to attend a long, drawn out conference or training day. If you’re trying to organise one, you need to create an environment where attendees feel like they’re not wasting their time and getting useful information and participating in meaningful discussion. Don’t let your attendees go hungry and don’t let a boring lunch ruin everyone’s focus. Aim for delicious food that will match the creativity and quality of your conference.

Pre-prepared lunch boxes can be handed out to conference and training day attendees. It’s an organised and delicious way to give everyone a little break. They won’t have to worry about leaving the office to find food or make their own, and you won’t have to worry about people getting restless.

 

Mini burgers and icy cold beer #laissezfairecatering #events #party #catering #burger #laissez_faire_catering

A photo posted by Laissez-faire Catering (@laissez_faire_catering) on Dec 3, 2016 at 10:27pm PST

Lunch boxes usually contain a healthy sandwich or roll, a piece of fruit, nuts and other snacks that are great for filling you up. Coffee and other drinks could also be served during lunch, or you could set up a self-serve station where attendees can make their own coffee and have a chat before getting back to business.

Here are a few ideas to take lunch boxes to the next level:

Go Chinese

The Australian palate is changing and Chinese food is becoming a very popular on-the-go lunch option. It’s easy and simple to prepare and is suited for mass consumption. You can have savoury rice, beef, vegetables, pork, chicken and noodles dishes. These will be guaranteed to be delicious and fill you up!

Mediterranean Lunch

 

Sweet apart to spring at Inglis stables tonight #venues #event #wedding #inglisstables #laissezfaire

A photo posted by Laissez-faire Catering (@laissez_faire_catering) on Sep 3, 2016 at 7:21am PDT

Mediterranean dishes are good for a single-portion, low maintenance and popular lunch. You can include grilled meats, tabbouleh, hummus, falafel, a Greek salad with eggplant and tzatziki, wraps and roasted nuts.

Skip the Chips

Some consider a bag of potato chips and other junk food a side dish. Skip the bag of chips if you want to keep your lunches healthy. Instead, include a good serving of pasta salad, fresh fruit, roasted potatoes and wedges or tasty cheese and crackers.

Spice up the Sandwiches

 

Lunch #sandwiches #events #laissez_faire_catering #catering #food

A photo posted by Laissez-faire Catering (@laissez_faire_catering) on Apr 21, 2016 at 2:18am PDT

Even plain roast beef sandwiches can be made into a hearty lunch with some caramelised onion jam, different lettuces and whole granary bread. You can also opt for a peri-peri chicken sandwich, a slow roasted pulled pork sandwich or a honey glazed champagne ham sandwich with cheddar cheese, tomato and lettuce. It’s simple but classy.

It’s all about “on the go” and “easy to eat” these days, so why not try this at your next conference, meeting or training day.

If you want to check out our delicious on-the-go lunches, click the on the banner below.