How to Choose the Right Catering & Bartending Package for Your Event

Mandy Haws
Sep 1
3 min read

Updated: Oct 20

How to Choose the Right Catering & Bartending Package for Your Event

Planning an event comes with a lot of moving parts — guest lists, venues, décor, and of course, food and drinks. One of the best ways to simplify the process (and keep your sanity) is by choosing the right catering and bartending package for your event.

At Social Butterfly Catering, we help clients across Norman, Moore, and the OKC metro design catering packages that fit their guest count, style, and budget — all while keeping the experience effortless from setup to cleanup.

Here’s how to choose the perfect catering and bartending package for your next event.

1. Buffet, Plated, or Drop-Off: What’s Best for Your Event?

Different event styles call for different catering setups — and each offers unique benefits.

Buffet Style: Ideal for large gatherings, corporate events, and family celebrations. Guests can choose what they like, and service flows quickly.
Plated Service: Perfect for formal dinners or weddings where presentation matters. Guests are served at their tables, giving the event an elevated, restaurant-quality feel.
Drop-Off Catering: Great for more casual events or smaller budgets. We deliver everything hot and ready — no staffing required.

At Social Butterfly Catering, we offer full-service catering and drop-off options, so you can decide what works best for your event type, timeline, and budget.

2. Licensed Bartenders: Why Professionalism Matters

Adding bar service brings a layer of sophistication — and responsibility — to your event. That’s why choosing licensed bartenders is so important.

Our bartenders are fully licensed, insured, and trained under ABLE Law to serve responsibly and safely. This not only keeps your event fun and professional but also takes the pressure off you as the host. You can relax knowing your guests are in good hands — and that your event meets all Oklahoma service regulations.

Plus, our bartenders are skilled in more than just pouring drinks. From shaking up signature cocktails to helping manage bar inventory, they bring the same level of service and attention to detail that defines every Social Butterfly event.

3. Coordinating Kitchen & Bar for a Seamless Flow

There’s an art to syncing the kitchen and the bar — and when done right, your event feels effortless.

Because our catering and bartending teams work together under one roof, timing is never a problem. We coordinate food service and drink pacing so your guests always have what they need — without long lines or awkward pauses between courses.

From corporate receptions to weddings, this seamless coordination is what helps us stand out as one of the most trusted full-service catering companies in Norman, OK.

4. Budgeting for Food and Drink Service

Your catering and bartending budget should reflect the kind of experience you want to create. Start by estimating:

Guest count (including staff and vendors)
Service style (drop-off vs. full-service)
Beverage offerings (beer and wine only, or full cocktail bar)

Our team provides transparent quotes and customizable packages — whether you’re planning an OU department luncheon, a Moore corporate event, or a private party in Blanchard or Noble. We’ll walk you through every option so you can stay within budget without sacrificing quality.