Free planning tool

Catering timeline planner.

Enter your event date to turn the plan into real dates. Larger events and the 尾牙 season need the full eight weeks; a small office lunch can start at the one-week step. Ticks stay on this device only.

How to use it
  1. Enter the event date; each step shows the date to finish it by.
  2. Skip the early steps for small, simple events.
  3. Print the plan or keep the tab open and tick steps off.
Eight weeks before
Six weeks before
Four weeks before
Two weeks before
One week before
The day before
On the day

Questions about this tool

How far ahead should I plan catering?

For large events and the 尾牙 season, start about eight weeks ahead. Small office lunches can be planned much closer to the date; the quote confirms a feasible timeline.

When should I confirm the final headcount?

Agree the date with the caterer. Many hosts confirm the expected number a week before and the final number the day before.

Is my event date stored anywhere?

Only in this browser tab and the page address, so you can reload or share the plan. Nothing is sent to us.

Planning a gathering

Ready to plan the food?

Set guests, date and service level, compare up to three menus, and get the exact quote by email.