10 Winter Trends for Special Events

Happy New Year!

The following are my 10 trends for winter entertaining.

FOOD

1. Charcuterie is king! You will find a collection of terrines with cured meats and artisan cheeses on menus and buffets this coming season.

For more information on charcuterie and professional tips on making it yourself, check out this book at www.ciaprochef.com

 2. Menus that offer seasonal local organic foods.

3. Braised meats ... Slow cooking! 
Roasted root vegetables, hearty soups, crusty herb scented breads, ginger spiced desserts. 

And pies, pies, pies!

 With all those pies comes the question -- what are caterers doing with that extra crust?

John Homrighausen at Ranch Bakery in Texas puts a down-home touch on them and sells them covered in sugar and cinnamon. Delicious...a trend great for any season!

TEXTILES

4. Textured and woven fabrics, distressed leather with an ethnic "world" feel. 

 Rich color is your friend.These cloths from Napa Valley Linen, called Tangier Safi and Tangier Pumpkin, are a great accent color for a winter palette.

And to accessorize -- faux fur, yarn twine and mirrored accents.

DESIGN

5. Event design will be influenced by fairytale themes on TV shows and new feature releases.

Found objects were used at this event catered by Emily's Catering. Photo by Carla Ten Eyck Photography

6. No more matchy-matchy furnishings. Watch for an eclectic retail look utilizing found objects -- lounge groupings that incorporate objects such as a small file cabinets re-purposed into end tables, or the fender of an old car made into a contemporary chair.

 At the Games of Throne premiere, tables featured a combination of sculptural items.

7. Sculptural centerpieces. And using several styles of patterned fine china, flatware and glassware integrated for a unique, eclectic look.

ENTERTAINMENT

8. Staged entertainment trends will include acapella vocals, solo or ensemble entertainers and world jazz.

9. Interactive experiences continue to be a trend. From incorporating social media -- which is more high tech -- to incorporating wildlife experiences -- which is more high touch.

Guests interacted with wildlife at the Games of Throne premiere at Warner Bros.

ATTITUDE

 Photo by Roy Llera, courtesy of Joy Wallace Catering Production

10. Adventurous. Events will traverse the globe as well as the emotions. 
So exhale and enjoy the ride of the New Year!

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BIG NEWS from Warner Bros.!
We are thrilled that Warner Bros. Special Event Facility is a finalist for Event Site of the Year for an Event Solutions magazine Spotlight Award. We need your vote! 
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