Catering for a Party at Home? Here's a Handy Checklist!

There’s no better way to bring family and friends together than by hosting a party at home. It’s a relaxed, comfortable setting where everyone can enjoy themselves, catch up, and eat a delicious meal. But planning and cooking that meal can be tricky, especially if your guestlist numbers more than a handful of loved ones. 

This is where catering for a home party can be so incredibly handy. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or simply a get-together, home catering saves time, stress, and of course dishes. And your guests will get to enjoy a unique culinary experience!

At DiVino at Home, we provide authentic Italian catering for parties at home, and events big and small. We’ve put together a simple checklist to help you plan, prepare, and enjoy a deliciously catered event. If you're after Italian catering in Melbourne or looking for easy catering for a small party, this guide has got you covered.

Our checklist for home catering for a party

If you’re planning a party, a checklist is a must. Get everything in order early on and tick off the boxes, so you can enjoy yourself on the day!

1. Lock in the number of guests (or get close)

The first step when organising catering for a party at home (or even if you choose to cook yourself) is knowing how many people are coming. You don’t need an exact number straight away, but a rough estimate will help you get more accurate quotes and avoid over- or under-ordering food. Plus, it’s always a little less stressful when you know how many people will be walking in the door!

2. Note any dietary restrictions

Knowing your guests’ dietary restrictions is super important, especially when it comes to allergies. Make sure you ask each individual when you send off your invitations, and make a quick list of any dietary needs. That includes vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, nut or other allergies, or religious considerations. Most catering services will accommodate a range of needs, but they’ll need time to prepare alternative dishes or ingredients.

3. Think about cuisine

Deciding on the kind of food that fits your event’s vibe is a key choice. For example, are you looking for relaxed share plates, tasty canapés, or pizza, pasta and antipasto spreads? If you're after something warm, welcoming, and universally loved, Italian catering for a party at home is always a winner. It's the perfect option for casual and formal events alike.

4. Break down your budget

Once you’ve come up with an amount you’re happy to spend for the whole party, divide it into categories: food, drinks, service (if needed), and extras like tableware or décor. Creating a more detailed breakdown like this will help you narrow down your options and avoid any surprise costs later on.

5. Compare catering companies in Melbourne

When you’ve settled on home catering for your dinner or lunch, do a bit of research on your options. Look at online reviews, menus, photos, and testimonials to get a feel for the different companies offering catering in Melbourne. Shortlist a few that specialise in the type of cuisine or service you want, such as Italian catering.

6. Check menus

Once you’ve narrowed down your list, dive into the various menus offered by each Melbourne caterer. Look at elements like variety, portion sizes, and whether they offer options for different dietary needs. Catering for a small party can be more flexible, so do feel free to ask if the catering company can be flexible with the menu.

7. Request a tasting

Before you lock anything in, see if the caterer offers tastings. If they have a restaurant, consider visiting in person. For example, DiVino Ristorante in the Yarra Valley is a great place to sample some of the excellent dishes that DiVino at Home offers and meet the team behind the food. It’s also a great excuse for a delicious day out!

8. Confirm inclusions

Always make sure you ask what’s included in the catering package. Will they provide serving platters, staff, napkins, cutlery, or table styling? Some caterers offer full service, while others are drop-off only, and then you’ll need to arrange and serve the food yourself. Clarify this early so you’re not left scrambling for extras at the worst moment!

9. Book the date

Once you’ve made your choice of caterer, secure your booking early, especially if you’re planning an event during a busy season like spring or the December holidays. A deposit might be required, but your catering company will likely have already given you these details.

10. Make sure your space is prepared

It’s important to make sure your space is ready for the catering and caterers. Think about where the food will be served, where guests will gather, and whether you need to rearrange furniture or add extra tables. If you’re hiring service staff, make sure there’s enough room for them to move around easily, and move any hazards out of the way early on.

11. Communicate with your caterers

Touch base a week before the event to finalise numbers, confirm arrival times, and re-check dietary requirements. Clear communication will ensure your catering for home party goes off without a hitch. Your catering company will usually be proactive with this, likely booking in a call beforehand to make sure everything is ready to go.

12. Enjoy your Italian small party catering!

On the day, relax and enjoy the great company and delicious food. One of the best parts about hiring catering for a party at home is that you don’t need to worry about cooking, serving, or cleaning. Whether it’s a warm tray of arancini or a beautifully plated pasta course, your guests will be impressed, and you’ll be able to enjoy everything with them, without being stuck in the kitchen.

Book home catering for your next party with DiVino at Home

Planning a celebration and want authentic, elegant Italian catering for a party at home? Let DiVino at Home take care of everything. Based in the Yarra Valley and offering high-quality Italian catering in Melbourne, our experienced team brings the flavours of Italy straight to your doorstep. Whether you’re looking for gourmet catering, pizza and pasta, or a little bit of everything, the team at DiVino would love to help.

Call or email us today to discuss your menu, book your date, and enjoy a stress-free party at home. Buon appetito!