2011 Food and Event Trends

As the New Year approaches, I felt it was time to go out on a limb and give my insight and opinion on what will continue to be hot what will become a new trend in 2011.Being a self proclaimed foodie it is easy to give my humble opinions on what will influence our tables in 2011. It was the fashion and style element that had me reaching deep inside to find those few things I feel will be "Hot" in 2011.
So Here Goes!

-FOODS-

*Mini Plates*

Composed of three or four mini portions to form complete plates but allowing guests to sample a variety of these plates throughout an event.

*Fried Vegetables*

 ( Not tempura or batter dipped but simply fried to perfection)

*High End Junk Food And Gourmet Comfort Foods*

Fresh Mini Donuts with Jams, Natural Flavored Cupcakes and Homemade Ring Dings are all examples

*Breads*

Nothing new here but the desire for great breads, honey and sweet butters will continue

*Whey*

Used in salads and other courses this by-product of cheese production will find its way to our tables

*Popcorn*

Not just a snack food anymore but also used in salads, desserts, breading & ice cream

*Hay*

Used in smoking and roasting as a great flavor addition

* Swede Foods and Beverages*

*Honey*

It will continue to grow and become popular in beverages as well

*Bellies & Neck Meat*

Popular with the true Gourmand these lesser cuts of meat will find a way into creative dishes and catering

-BEVERAGES-

*White Whiskey*

This is moonshine for 2011. Dependent on the flavors of the products used to make it and not how it is stored this will grow in popularity. You may see a release from Philadelphia Distilling in 2011

-FUN-

*The Photo Lounge*

The Photo booth without the enclosure. It allows larger groups to ham it up and use a remote control to take pictures that are turned into a video or power point put to music and sent as a link. This is the must have for Mitzvahs, Parties and Corporate Events. Recently debuted in Philadelphia at the "Women in Weddings" Holiday Event

Check them out at the Soiree Philadelphia or at http://soireephiladelphia.com/soiree-photo-lounge/

* Interactive Yoga*

Play Yoga allows children to relax, lose the stress of celebrations and life and find harmony all while having fun. Play Yoga (Peace, Love, Art Yoga) was recently part of an amazing event at Drexelbrook Corporate Events Center. In addition they can be found at http://www.goplayyoga.com/

-FASHIONS-

*Trumpet Skirt Wedding Dresses*

A style that has been around but will see a big growth in the coming year

*City Chic*

Incorporating sleek lines and incredible lace. the best example is The Pronovias gowns and city collection.

You can find Pronovias here in Philadelphia at The Wedding Pavilion

*Shorter Cocktail Style Bridesmaid Gowns*

Where else but at Vancleve on the Main Line

*Used organic and natural fiber dresses will be the new trend in "Green"

-TRENDS-

*Small Intimate Weddings*

Perfect for historic venues such as Duportail House or The Yellow House of Willowdale the intimate gatherings of family and friends will continue to grow in popularity. They can be planned on shorter notice and feature so many personal touches

*18 Month Engagements*

Larger weddings with an extended planning(and savings) time to allow for more luxuries in the difficult financial time. These events will showcase the grand drama of weddings at its best

*Local and Organic*

This trend will continue to grow and incorporate other aspects besides foods including floral, platters, decor and gifts

*Increased Friday Rentals and Thursday Rentals*

Price increases on the horizon for Fridays due to demand will have many couples looking at Thursday night weddings and complete destination weekends for guests. Drexelbrook Catering has already developed complete weekend experiences for Bucks County, Valley Forge and The Brandywine Valley that allow guests to enjoy all the sights of the area in days following the wedding

* Family Heirlooms*

" One of a kind pieces" have become "The New Black"

One of the best sources for these is Nina Fox of "The Vintage Fox" you can find many of her pieces at http://www.rubylane.com/ 

*Philanthropic Events*

Teaching kids and people the joy of giving. Whether it be corporate team building, birthday parties or second weddings these events which center on the guests giving to those in need are a wonderful trend that looks to grow in 2011. One such event was recently held at Drexelbrook Catering and Corporate Events Center and can be seen on our blog

In December 2011 I will reflect back at these and ponder what 2012 will bring. Until then I wish everyone a Happy and Healthy New year and hope you continue to follow the bright future of Drexelbrook Catering as we embark on many new journeys in 2011. Please take a moment and share your thoughts and opinions.