Uniform styles for serving staff, chefs, and kitchen staff have changed over the years, not to mention that some will even change their uniforms based on the even type and time of season. Summer bbqs, winter weddings, corporate events, or more casual dinners and social events. You can see how each of these occasions may demand a different look and feel. And as your uniforms are an extension of your brand identity and it's message, it's important to carefully consider all of these things.
Whether you're just starting your catering business or you're an established operator looking to upgrade the look of your staff with new uniforms and perhaps an overhaul in style, then you'll want to keep the following 6 tips in mind.
1. Quality and Design - Find the balance
You'll want to find something that balances quality and design. Hi quality should mean it lasts and is resistant to the normal wear and tear of working on the front lines of the catering industry, it's always good to remember that there are highly specialized uniform manufacturers available specifically for our industry such as ChefUniforms.com and Happy Chef Uniforms.
With that said you also want to put some attention on design and style, especially for your serving staff. So balance these 2 factors carefully.
2. Prioritize Staff Comfort
Making sure your staff are comfortable and feel good in what their wearing is a real priority considering that they are the ones who have to wear them, and keeping them focused on their job and happy is key to the success of your business and the way your clients perceive your brand.
The material should be durable but cool and comfortable, appropriate for the event, and should make staff feel confident and stylish without going overboard. The fit should be flattering and should make staff feel and look good.
3. Convey your Brand Identity
What does your brand stand for? Do you have a core marketing focus (like fresh local ingredients, or fun and carefree catering). Whatever the core message is of your brand, make sure that your uniform selection is consistent with your overall brand image.
You definitely want to be stylish and give your business that extra spark but not at the expense of being untrue to your core message.
4. Ask Employees for Their Opinion
This should go without saying. From kitchen staff to chefs and servers, you need to get the opinion of your staff and make sure they feel good about what they're wearing. This is similar to point 2, but takes things an extra step and actively consults staff on what they think, collectively and as individuals.
The great thing about this point is it's a serious morale booster, we all know how good it makes people feel to know their opinions are valued and that we want insights from them, don't leave your staff out of this crucial decision.
5. Be Creative
Bring some creativity to the table, think of ways that you can stand out and leave any extra special impression at your next special event. Look at the other catering companies in your area and try to see what they are up to and find ways to be more creative and interesting.
Don't be afraid to try something unusual or get your creative juices flowing and take some risks.
A second opinion is your best friend though, don't forget that.
6. Consider Multiple Uniforms
We in the catering industry know that there is such a wide variety of events, weddings, corporate parties, holiday parties, and all manner of events that require our services.
And just like you don't plan the same menu for every occasion, perhaps having a selection of different uniforms may be the way to go. If your company can afford it then it means you don't have to stress about making a final decision on the look your company will present over the next couple years, but can have a variety of options and experiment as you go. This may not be for every catering business as it is expensive, but if you can, it's highly recommended to take this route!
1. Quality and Design - Find the balance
You'll want to find something that balances quality and design. Hi quality should mean it lasts and is resistant to the normal wear and tear of working on the front lines of the catering industry, it's always good to remember that there are highly specialized uniform manufacturers available specifically for our industry such as ChefUniforms.com and Happy Chef Uniforms.
With that said you also want to put some attention on design and style, especially for your serving staff. So balance these 2 factors carefully.
2. Prioritize Staff Comfort
Making sure your staff are comfortable and feel good in what their wearing is a real priority considering that they are the ones who have to wear them, and keeping them focused on their job and happy is key to the success of your business and the way your clients perceive your brand.
The material should be durable but cool and comfortable, appropriate for the event, and should make staff feel confident and stylish without going overboard. The fit should be flattering and should make staff feel and look good.
3. Convey your Brand Identity
What does your brand stand for? Do you have a core marketing focus (like fresh local ingredients, or fun and carefree catering). Whatever the core message is of your brand, make sure that your uniform selection is consistent with your overall brand image.
You definitely want to be stylish and give your business that extra spark but not at the expense of being untrue to your core message.
4. Ask Employees for Their Opinion
This should go without saying. From kitchen staff to chefs and servers, you need to get the opinion of your staff and make sure they feel good about what they're wearing. This is similar to point 2, but takes things an extra step and actively consults staff on what they think, collectively and as individuals.
The great thing about this point is it's a serious morale booster, we all know how good it makes people feel to know their opinions are valued and that we want insights from them, don't leave your staff out of this crucial decision.
5. Be Creative
Bring some creativity to the table, think of ways that you can stand out and leave any extra special impression at your next special event. Look at the other catering companies in your area and try to see what they are up to and find ways to be more creative and interesting.
Don't be afraid to try something unusual or get your creative juices flowing and take some risks.
A second opinion is your best friend though, don't forget that.
6. Consider Multiple Uniforms
We in the catering industry know that there is such a wide variety of events, weddings, corporate parties, holiday parties, and all manner of events that require our services.
And just like you don't plan the same menu for every occasion, perhaps having a selection of different uniforms may be the way to go. If your company can afford it then it means you don't have to stress about making a final decision on the look your company will present over the next couple years, but can have a variety of options and experiment as you go. This may not be for every catering business as it is expensive, but if you can, it's highly recommended to take this route!