Banquet Budgeting — Smart Menu Strategies to Overcome Budgetary Challenges

It’s holiday time and as tempting as it may be to pull out all the stops when it comes to creating the ultimate savory celebration, you do have to contend with that awful thing known as a budget. Employing smart strategies for making the most of your money is what experts like Jennifer Christenson, Catering Sales Manager at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Prior Lake, MN, specialize in.

Q. Tell me about Mystic Lake and what you do there.


A. I head up the catering sales team for Mystic Lake Casino Hotel. We specialize in creating meetings and events that embrace the five senses. In this way, we can generate impactful “memory” moments.

Q. What menu items generally make a banquet budget balloon?


A. Typically, proteins and unlimited hosted alcohol service.

Q. Which of those items can you eliminate, scale back, or find substitutions for?


A. I wouldn't eliminate. Instead, I would focus my dollars towards “statement elements” throughout the event.  For example, a steak and lobster dual entrée communicates an expensive statement, but does not create the unexpected. However, a statement salad starter course (designed to complement the message of the event) paired with a single protein entrée (something different and unique) with an interactive dessert experience at the finish, will make the meal an impactful one, and is far more affordable than steak and lobster.

Q. What other cost control measures can a planner incorporate?


A. Don’t go it alone. Let the catering, culinary and banquet teams help you plan a wonderful experience!

Q. Any other cost-saving tips for menu planning?


A. Don't just plan a menu. Create an experience that is purposeful in its design and execution.

Find Mentioned Suppliers

Jennifer Christenson, Catering Director | Mystic Lake Center | Jennifer.Christensen@mysticlake.com

Jennifer Christenson has lead the catering sales team for over 12 years. Her experience includes handling all types of markets including many of the casino's VIP events. She keeps on top of trends in the industry by attending both national and local event conferences. She is also past president of NACE (National Association of Catering Events).

Related Suppliers & Featured Content Advertise with meetingpages and create a complete profile for your facility, attraction, activity or service.

Up Your Planner Anty – Winning Minnesota Casino Resorts

Spotlight | By Casey Romano, Publisher | March 21, 2024

Minnesota offers a variety of casino resorts that cater to corporate events with a winning combination of luxury accommodations, exciting gaming options, and diverse entertainment. Read more...

Making Spirits Bright – Minnesota Team Building Party Venues

Spotlight | By Casey Romano, Publisher | November 17, 2023

Planning the perfect holiday Minnesota team building party to make spirits bright this holiday season? Consider one of these popular Minnesota team building meeting venues and event spaces that are sure to give your staff or members some team spirit! Read more...

Get Marveled! 10 Notable Minnesota Meeting Hotels

Spotlight | By Casey Romano, Publisher | October 19, 2023

Looking for a Minnesota hotel for your next meeting or event that will leave your attendees energized and inspired? Look no further! Read more...

Play Your Planning Cards Right - Winning Minnesota Casino Event Venues

Spotlight | By Casey Romano, Publisher | May 16, 2023

While an extravagant venue may be impressive when hosting a Minnesota event, what makes a gathering memorable goes beyond gilded trim, chandeliers, and marble floors. It’s about the experience, not the interiors. Read more...