How to Plan a Church Banquet

Planning a church banquet can be a rewarding task.

Planning a church banquet can be a rewarding task for someone with the vision and tenacity to carry it out. With proper organization, good leadership and the help of a committed team, you can plan a successful banquet that will be enjoyed by church members and guests.

Things You'll Need

• Volunteer help
• Funding for supplies

Instructions

1. Establish a committee. This should be done as much in advance as possible so that members can be appointed to specific tasks such as contacting vendors, making purchases, decorating and perhaps even cooking if applicable. Solicit the help and assistance of church members who have a specific talent to do tasks such as design fliers and program booklets, and create centerpieces and floral arrangements.

2. Schedule meetings. An initial meeting should be conducted to discuss things such as budget, theme and logistics. At this time you may also wish to discuss any awards, entertainment or other special features that may be added to the event. Plan to have several meetings as you near the big day to have each committee member report back with their progress. These meetings will answer questions such as "Will the event be catered?"; "Will there be special accommodations for dietary restrictions or physically impaired guests?"; "Will there be any music? Perhaps the choir singing?"

3. Secure funding to begin purchasing supplies, services, food, decorations and other necessities. The church may or may not already have a budget to hold the banquet; if not, fundraising opportunities might be a consideration and a topic of discussion at one of the committee meetings. See the Resources section for link to fundraising ideas.

4. Finalize a location and date. If the event requires a venue outside of the actual church building, it is important to book one early in the planning phase because rooms and spaces get booked quickly during certain seasons. You may have to put down a deposit to secure the venue.

5. Advertise the event through fliers, church bulletins and word of mouth.
   Invite church members and potential guests to confirm their attendance in advance by phone, e-mail or sign-up sheet. This will let you determine a final in order to make sure there's sufficient space and food for everyone.

References

• Build a Better Banquet

Resources

• Church Fundraiser Ideas