Wedding Planning 101: The Caterer

The caterer... Obviously this is going to be a very biased post because, let's face it, The RK Group is catering in San Antonio. Yes, there are other great caterers to choose from, but we've been catering for 65 years, it's something we know, something we know very well.

I'm a foodie. I love good, interesting, innovative menus, a new spin on a traditional favorite or just something that makes people stop and say "wow, that was delicious!". With that said, it's obvious that the menu at our wedding would be a very important factor in my mind. If you're like me and my fiance, you can think of the menu as an added decoration or piece of entertainment. Food can be fun, memorable and the highlight of the night.

After starting in my position with The RK Group just a few months ago, I immediately started listening to what the chef offered, talking to him about things that are trending in the food world, asking him what he thinks really makes a party special, etc. Now I know that I have an added advantage here, but that's why I'm going to give you all the pointers you need to help you be successful!

Executive Chef Eric Nelson mans the nitrogen ice cream bar

As with any other vendor, you need to do your research. Think about it, if you schedule a meeting with a caterer because they are all the rage, but they really specialize in Mexican food and that's not what you want chances are, even if you get them to try something a little different and more to your liking, they won't hit a home run. You need to be able to trust in the skills of the caterer.

Here are some tips:

1. Schedule a consultation towards the beginning of your planning. Many people don't realize that once you add everything up, catering can easily become one of the priciest parts of your wedding. By having the meeting early, you can help plan your budget accordingly. 
2. Research what you want. I'm not just talking about researching caterers, though of course do this. Find reviews, talk to friends that have gotten married or have parties often, talk to your office, I'm sure you will find plenty of resources. Don't stop there though, research what kind of food or presentation you want. Often, this will lead you to the right caterer. 
3. Think about what food you like. Go into the meeting with an idea of menu items that you would like to see. That could be the trending dish of the moment or an old family favorite. Whatever it is, don't be scared to ask. Often times, the chef or catering manager will be able to suggest new or unique ways for presentations or twists on old favorites. 
4. When comparing bids, review them closely. What I mean by this specifically, is that every cater has a different way of structuring their bids. When you're reviewing them, be mindful that some caterers may include food, service, rentals, etc in one price while others might break them out separately. This might not seem like a big deal until you don't look at the big picture and think that one caterer is bidding $10 per person and one is bidding $40. 
5. Have an idea of what style you want. There are so many: heavy hors d'oeuvres, buffet, food stations, interactive stations, seated dinner, etc. 

I had my initial consultation with The RK Group for catering last week. It was strange putting myself in the shoes of a client. Though, let me tell you, I was thrilled with the result. My catering manager (and party throwing extraordinaire) is Dawn Dawes. She is incredibly knowledgeable about all of the most popular San Antonio venues. She walked us through a typical layout of the space, what works best, how many tables we should plan to have where, etc. It was more than just catering - and that's the BIG benefit to coming to The RK Group, you can get everything taken care of at once and without a headache. I broke some of the rules and didn't go in with a clear idea of what I wanted (but again, remember I know the chef) and just gave him free reign on the menu with a little direction of our likes and dislikes. I trust him fully to bring something wonderful to the table.

I encourage you to be very open minded. I came in with an idea that they later told me would probably not work out as well as I was hoping. They quickly suggested new options that sounded wonderful and I was back on track.

Just a few reasons I think The RK Group is a winning pick for brides (trying to be unbiased here):

1. The experience of the team along is unrivaled. We have the best of the best here and they know what they're doing. It doesn't begin and end with the menu, they help you with the layout, the details and everything in between.
2. The quality of the food. Our executive chef Eric Nelson and his team are extraordinary. They are amazing at coming up with new, innovative menu options. They can even take a family recipe and build it into the menu. I continue to be amazed by them. 
3. The service. This is one area where we always shine. Our team is impeccable and understands the importance of efficient, quality service. They are experts at what they do. We stand for the best and that's what we continue to deliver. 
4. The overall planning experience. If you want stress free, this is your place. Did I mention one-stop-shop. That means you only have to coordinate one vendor for everything from catering to linens to china to tables to floral and more. 
5. Our team knows San Antonio. Still looking for a venue? Don't be afraid to ask for suggestions. Our team has great relationships with venues throughout San Antonio, Austin and the Hill Country. We can provide you a list of great options.

This is the fun part. Like I said, imagine the menu as another piece of the entertainment. Your guests will be thrilled to have good food that they maybe don't see everyday. Call (210.223.2680) or email (sales@therkgroup.com) our sales team today and schedule a consultation to start talking about your big day.

Coming soon: Online resources I love.

Happy Planning!
Jessica

Wedding Planning 101: Tools

Today was such a big day in the wedding world that I have decided to forgo the venue post until next week (I hope that's ok with you all). Today, I would like to talk about some great tools and tricks to make your life easier while planning the big day. The Royal Wedding is all the news stations can talk about - I secretly, or maybe not so secretly, love it. I mean, what girl doesn't like a good love story? Especially one that ends with a regular girl turning into a princess, oh the fairy tale. We're in the wedding and events business so, of course, many of us have been following this very closely. I have found so many great tips and I just couldn't wait another week to share them.

Being in marketing, one of my favorite websites is Mashable, a site that gives all sorts of news and tools relating to social media and the web. Now, you might be thinking: "Social media and my wedding, what? Are you crazy?" I would answer that with yes, I am, but please think beyond Facebook and Twitter and realize that there are tons of great sites that can help! I've listed some below that I have used and some that I have found, but not used in depth yet. Take a look:

• COLOURlovers: A great resource for one of the first steps, picking your color scheme. Once that step is finished, a whole new world of planning will open up to you.
  
• Etsy: Ok, let me take a deep breath because this is going to be loud... I LOVE ETSY! I always have, even before I was engaged. That being said, they have great wedding resources. If you are slightly offbeat or like things that are a bit different, go to this site and explore. It might take a while, but it's totally worth it. Also, sign up for their wedding newsletter, you won't regret it. Check out their great blog too.
• Google: Specifically, google weddings. Did you know there was such a thing? Neither did I until I happened upon it. You can create websites, edit photos, use googledocs to keep the budget in line, share albums with Picasa and more. I haven't fully explored this yet, but plan to dive in very soon.
• Amazon: What are you looking forward to most when you think of your wedding? Gifts of course, well I mean that and being married to the love of your life. Personally, I am an Amazon, junkie. If I lived closer to the home base I would probably buy all my groceries from them, not that I can't now. Amazon has a great tool called a Universal Wishlist. This great tool lets you add gifts from all sorts of sites to one central location. I'm not to the registry point yet, but once I get there, this will be used, guaranteed.
• Apps: I speak iPhone, so sorry blackberry and Android users, I don't know how helpful I will be to you in this section. Take a look at: the Wedding Wire app for all of your organizational needs, Brides Magazine also has a pretty useful app, as does The Knot - Wedding 101 and The Wedding Dress LookBook.
• Hard core social media lover: Do you find yourself constantly on Twitter or Facebook and feel naked when your phone or laptop or iPad is suddenly nowhere to be found? Then this might be the perfect thing for you. A writer for Mashable had the brilliant idea - he's like you - of incorporating Facebook and Twitter as sort of a mobile guest book. Simply create a hashtag and tweet away. Go a step further and use TwitterFall if your guests are like you. You might just creat some cheap entertainment with this idea.

Tired yet? Don't forget you have to plan the honeymoon!

• YourTour: Again, suggested by Mashable and looks like a very helpful site to plan a multi-destination trip.
• Stay.com: Personal travel guide? Yes, please! Build your own according to what you and your betrothed love to do.
• Kayak: Best site for comparison shopping. Sign up for their eblast to learn about the great deals that surface.
• Apps: There are WAY too many to list here. More to come on this.
  

Now, this is just a small sampling of all the great resources out there for you. I am a blog-a-holic (did I just make up a word?) so I will be dedicating a whole post to my favorites in the weeks to come. If there's anything you want to specifically learn about, let me know and I will dig around. Thanks for stopping by and I promise - Next week: Venues - this one will be great!

Happy planning!
Jessica

The Perfect Menu for your Royal Celebration

Are you in a Royal Wedding FRENZY?! It seems like that’s all I’m hearing about this week. From the morning talk shows to the fashion blogs to right here in our office, its all people can think about. Rosemary, along with her good friend Joanne Boone (president and CEO of Rio Cruises San Antonio), is throwing a royal wedding watch party at – wait for it – 3 A.M. on Friday morning! The party will be British themed – everything from the food to the clothing to the decorations.

Our executive chef, Eric Nelson, a wonderfully talented “bloke”, came up with a menu that was overflowing with British influence and character. There will be plenty to “nosh” on and the setting will be grand! If you’re looking for a menu to serve at your bash, look no further. This is the menu that Chef Nelson suggests will make your guests remark: “Why, this is splendid!”

Poached Egg Wellingtons

Tender poached eggs wrapped in flaky puff pastry with sautéed Madeira mushrooms and fresh baby spinach and drizzled with Bearnaise sauce

Crisp pancetta and potato hash

with caramelized shallots and chopped chives

Chilled tomato minced basil salad

with Extra Virgin Olive Oil and black sea salt

Assorted English muffins, scones and crumpets

served with assorted jams and spreads

I’ve provided the recipes for the Bearnaise sauce and crumpets below. If you make anything on this menu, please let us know how it turns out! For more information on what Rosemary is planning, take a look at the wonderful article on MySA.com that appeared in the TASTE section of San Antonio Express-News last Sunday.

Cheers!

Jessica

Bearnaise sauce

1/3 cup tarragon vinegar 1/3 cup white wine 1 teaspoon black peppercorns, crushed roughly 1 tablespoon finely chopped shallots 2 tablespoons chervil, finely chopped 6 sprigs tarragon 3 egg yolks 1 cup butter, melted and at room temperature Cayenne pepper, to taste Salt, to taste

Directions

In a saucepan, combine vinegar, wine, peppercorns, shallots, chervil and tarragon. Cook over high heat until reduced to 1/3 cup or less. Strain through a chinois and set aside. Place the egg yolks in a thick bowl and set over a double boiler. Stir yolks vigorously. When the yolks have thickened to the consistency of very heavy cream, begin to slowly add the melted butter while stirring continuously. When all of the butter has been incorporated, add in the wine/vinegar/herb reduction a few drops at a time and immediately remove from heat. Add cayenne and salt to taste.

Crumpets

1 1/2 cups lukewarm water 1 cup lukewarm milk 2 tablespoons butter, melted 3 1/2 cups flour 2 1/2 teaspoons instant yeast 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 1/4 teaspoons salt

Directions

Put water, milk, butter, flour, yeast, baking powder and salt into the bowl of a stand mixer. Beat at high speed for 2 minutes. Mixture will be a thick batter. Remove bowl from mixer and cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let stand for about 1 hour. Batter will rise and become bubbly. Heat a lightly oiled griddle to about 325 degrees. Place well-oiled ring molds on the griddle and scoop about 1/4 cup of batter into each mold. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes. The top of the crumpet will have dry edges and lots of open bubbles; it should hold its shape when the mold is removed. Flip crumpets and continue to cook for another 4 minutes or so. Top and bottom will be lightly browned and the inside will be airy.

Ongoing Blog: Wedding Planning 101

Many of you may not know that I am currently at the beginning of a journey that every girl dreams of – planning my wedding. So you can only imagine the extra excitement I felt when I started in my new position with the RK Group only three short weeks ago. This company is a mecca for all brides-to-be. With rentals, catering, floral, destination management, transportation, entertainment resources and venues, what more could a girl ask for?

Being a resourceful girl, one that likes convenience and creative ideas (I’m pretty sure I could build a piece of furniture with all of the magazine’s I’ve collected in three short months since getting engaged) I jumped on the idea of creating an ongoing “wedding planning 101” blog. Starting this week, I will write a regular blog entry on this site that will chronicle my journey from engaged to married. I will show you all of the amazing things that the RK Group offers with a behind-the-scenes view into my appointments, the process and what you can expect. I will introduce our wonderful team and give you insight into the magic that they can produce. I will also introduce you to some of our exclusive venues as I hunt for the perfect place for the big day.

My planning will be based off of the typical “timelines” put in place by all of the wonderful wedding planning resources. I will also introduce you to some of my favorite blogs and the new trends in the industry. I encourage you to leave me questions or comments you might have for our team and I will try my best to get them answered. Stay tuned in for updates… much, much more to come!

- Jessica -

The RK Group prepares for Hurricane Alex

The RK Group team is working closely with BCFS as Texas' first hurricane, Alex, heads to shore within the next few days.

Since early this week, The RK Group has been providing services for food and shelter to the 300-700 first response team members stationed at San Antonio evacuation locations. First responders include bus drivers, ambulance drivers, medics, police officers and other Texas emergency members who are in San Antonio until they are dispatched to emergency locations.

RK Group Executive Chef Eric Nelson assures: "We are ready to go, we are just waiting on the word". If and when Hurricane Alex hits land, The RK Group is prepared with trucks and food on stand-by for an immediate trip to the Rio Grande Valley. The RK Group is also providing tenting and generators in San Antonio with more equipment loaded for transport to the Rio Grande Valley as necessary.

Chef Nelson adds, "The RK Group is dedicated to Texas citizens and we are privileged to have the opportunity to help in a potential time of need." If Hurricane Alex fades out before hitting land, this will have been a great trial run for The RK Group as well as the city of San Antonio.


"BCFS is a national leader in medical sheltering and provides critical emergency support services to state and local governments during disasters." Learn More




Posted by Rachel Kellar, Account Executive, The RK Group L.L.C.



Follow us on Facebook and Twitter! @therkgroup

Perfect Recipe for the Holiday's: Event Planning Mixed with Social Media

This past Thursday, I was invited to speak on behalf of The RK Group at a social media gathering for Business, Media and Public Relations abbreviated as #bmpr. http://www.thebmpr.com/

The invitation was extended due to:
our presence on Twitter and Facebook,
our followers and fans,
and RK employees who support The RK Group through Social Media.

Other speakers at #bmpr included Tanji Patton (@tanjipatton) a former news anchor with a website and business devoted to her love of French cuisine, SeaWorld GM Dan Decker (@danjdecker) with a live owl and wallabee who fascinated the audience with their beauty (photos by MatthewEgan) and SavorSA (@SavorSA) who provides restaurant reviews throughout the city of San Antonio.

Donna Tuttle’s introduction of The RK Group included praise of our events and tweets with pictures of delicious food that leave her craving more!
Our presentation provided an insight into the RK Group that some members of the audience were unaware of such as our partnership with FEMA subcontractors to assist when a south-eastern natural disaster strikes, our involvement at the Alamodome, Convention Center, USAA, Valero Energy and many charities throughout the city.

We also provided some tips and shortcuts to save money on business and personal holiday parties. Some examples were choose a venue with existing décor or cut down on bar costs with custom signature drinks such as: Dan Decker Daiquiris, Donna Tuttle-tini’s or #BMPR bellinis

While it was tough following the live animal presentation, guests did enjoy our send off gift (via @NTJ) and the chance to win a free office lunch.


Our free lunch winner is: @bkearney (for being the first to Re-Tweet) and @derrich. Congratulations!

Thank you to all who entered our lunch contest, if you’re still hungry remember that RosemaryDelivers!

We are looking forward to next year's #bmpr events and more social media involvement!

~Rachel Kellar~

Today's event expectations are not only met, but exceeded by The RK Group

You’re on a site visit and the venue manager is pointing: “Cake table here, gift drop off here, bar over there and the DJ will be in that far back corner”.... Ahh! Some people have the mind and imagination to handle such vagueness, but others need a tangible representation to envision the plan. That’s where I come in!

I create digital diagrams at The RK Group for events ranging from 50 to 50,000 guests. We work in the Convention Center, famous museums, corporate rooms and huge tents that can pop up anywhere around the city. Creating diagrams is not only helpful for all vendors but has also become a necessity.

Guest seating, bar placement, and emergency exits are some obvious reasons for event diagrams, but also consider the following:

• Where is the caterer entering from? Is the walk so far that the food will be cold by the time it reaches the tables?


• Will there be a crowd around the bar? Bars shouldn’t be placed at a direct entrance, exit or near any significant area. If it’s a bar- people will find it.
  
  

Design Program Example: Meeting Matrix

Works great for Ballrooms. Builds initial layout and inputs correct number of tables and chairs based on guest attendance. This diagram shows seating for 2030 with 10 people per table.

• Will guests be cramped at the table while seated? To avoid cramping while guests are seated allow for 3-4 feet between each table.
  
• Is there a need for lights or AV equipment at your event? If so, it is a great idea to include lighting in the diagram. We produced an event with flat screen TVs showing a video of the charity. We had to be sure chairs were positioned so everyone could see the TV screens.


• Is the venue irregularly shaped or does it have unique attributes? If so, consider your guests and their view of the stage or designated point of interest.
  

Design Program Example: Smart Draw
Provides a blank canvas and allows for different layers to import existing venue layouts

Providing a custom diagram is expected of event professionals and popular venues especially when the venue can provide a floor plan. Some venues, such as private residences, don’t have floor plans available. In any case, if the client requests one, it should become a reality. At The RK Group, we have three different programs in our office that allow us to create various types of diagrams from existing facilities to those that are custom designed. Some provide a bird’s eye view and another shows the view from your exact seat!


Design Program Example: PartyCAD
A CAD program that creates virtual tours of your event space and birds eye view. Allows you to create various types of tent (hoecker, pole, etc). There is even a free online tutorial for this program!


Don’t be afraid to imagine your event and then and ask an event professional to provide a realistic representation. Thanks to industry technology, it is possible!

- Rachel Kellar, Sales Associate, The RK Group

RK Welcomes Executive Chef Eric Nelson

The RK Group is proud to welcome Executive Chef Eric Nelson to our fabulous group in Texas! Chef Eric joins our team after having worked for our company in Arizona. His experience is far-reaching and his creativity is second to none. Already, he has re-energized his new team and has made a tangible mark at RK. His creations are unique, fresh, and delectable.

He has worked in many different areas of the US to include Phoenix and Naples Florida. In each city, he worked for the Ritz Carlton. Chef Eric received his degree in Culinary Arts from the Scottsdale Culinary Institute which provided him with a quality foundation to add to his already fully developed passion for the culinary arts.

His two children, Cameron and Chloe, and wife Sherri, just welcomed a new baby into the family named Olyvia Faith. The Nelsons are excited to come to San Antonio and make it their new home.

Chef Eric enjoys learning new things, meeting new people and seeing new places. He is fully committed and excited to get to know and learn about his new team. He is confident that he will further The RK Group’s commitment to excellence in catering and event planning.

He is a firm believer in having fun at work and knows that loving what you do and being able to be creative is an essential part of a career. Chef Eric has little tolerance for poor attitudes.

In his spare time, he enjoys cooking, of course! He also enjoys building new things and working around the house.

Welcome Eric!

~~~~by Roxanne Fuentes

Valero Vista

I'm very excited to announce that The RK Group will have an Open House today (9/16/09) at the Venues at Valero in the Vista Room. Chef Eric Nelson will prepare amazing dishes!! Many different looks and designs for the holiday season will be displayed. We look forward to showcasing this beautiful venue and also letting all of our clients know what dates are still available for the 2009/10 holiday season.

Come join us from 530 to 730 pm- you won't be disappointed.

The RK Group will be sure to dazzle!

Dawn Dawes
Sr. Account Executive