Paper

• The paper used in a catered event, such as menus and table numbers, plays a large role in setting a theme for a catered event. If you cater events often, an added bonus of your business could be to provide customers with these types of services so they don't have to think about them. Table numbers are easy to make. Purchase small picture frames from a discount store, then place table numbers inside. Make a few different sets of numbers in different colors, so they will coordinate with any event. If you offer a few different menu options for the event you cater, print the menus on a neutral colored paper and have them laminated. Purchase patterned or colored paper that will be appropriate for different events. You could have on hand an antique-silver floral pattern, a Christmas-themed pattern, and so on. Cut these into rectangles that are larger than the printed menus. Laminate these also. Use double-sided tape to attach the menu to the colored paper, depending on the type of event you are catering.
  
  

Linens

• The linens at an event are one of the main things that make a simple room with tables look like a special occasion. Use a colored tablecloth to match the theme of the party. If you must prepare for catering multiple events, invest in neutral white, black and beige tablecloths, and then make colored table runners that will match the theme because these are less expensive. Or set the theme with colored napkins. For instance, use all neutral tablecloths and place settings, but a gold table runner with red- and gold-patterned napkins for a holiday event.
  
  

Centerpieces

• The main way to set the theme of your event is to use centerpieces. For a holiday party, use gold candles surrounded by golden pine cones or holly berries. For a spring party, set a vase of bright spring flowers in the center of the table. For a wedding, floating candles surrounded by flower petals are popular. To save expenses, buy an assortment of silk flowers at the end of the season. For instance, buy holiday flowers in the spring and spring flowers in the fall. You can reuse these instead of purchasing new flowers each time, which can get pricey, and no one will be able to tell the difference.