Work Party

MegBuisson

Holiday season is upon us and my office is getting our holiday party geared up. I work at a university and the dean for our specific college put me in charge of the food committee. Our party is taking place during the day (we're closing the offices at 1:30 and having a 3 hour party) and he said he would prefer hor d'oeuvres and smaller foods. I'm thinking instead of just telling people to bring whatever they want to instead come up with a few categories and ask for 3-4 volunteers per category. So for example, have 3 cold hor d'oeuvres, 3 hot, 3 dips, etc. What categories do you think we should break things down to? There will be about 25 people there and everyone has been forewarned that they need to bring something.

Adjudi-Kate

When my work does a potluck event we just have a list where people have to write down what they are bringing.  That way there are no/few repeat items.  You could have a list that says "Sign up sheet: Hor d'oeuvres and desserts for the PARTY!" and just have a bunch of blank lines under it.  (Or just a list of names with a blank after each name.)  Have a co-worker write her name and what she is bringing on the first line, and everyone else will follow suit.  You go last and you make whatever appetizer you feel is lacking from the list that would round out the menu. 

 Your category idea could definitely work, too.  I was just thinking that some people might like more freedom to choose what they make.  And it might be easier for you!

nd01

I think I'd keep the categories really general to give folks the freedom like PP mentioned.  Maybe something like - "Savory - Hot", "Savory - Cold or Room Temp" and "Sweet".  Unless you really think you need a certain number of dips vs crudite, etc.  I also agree with going last so you can round it out. 

TarHeels&Rebels

Since there are only 25 people and the timing is odd, I don't think you need to worry too much about covering a multitude of categories.

I've managed to forget who the first poster was, but her suggestion of a sign up sheet identifying the party as desserts & hors d'oeuvres (underlined, bolded, and super sized lol) should do the trick.

6fsn

Agreed to call it an hors d'oeuvres and dessert party and just let people sign up.  Maybe have the same number of lines on each side? then fill in where you think you might need it.  It does seem like a really odd time though. 

hutchsl

On your sign up sheet you could list some suggestions to give people an idea of the things you are thinking. I agree witha sign up sheet so people can make their specialties. If i got assigned something it might be the first time I try and and well it might not turn out so great. Besides some people may surprise you with wonderful things you never thought of. At our parties DH started to put ot sausage cut in to small rounds as appetizers and they went fast. Now we do that for every party.

baconface

Also, something to keep in mind: not sure what it is like where you work, but potlucks can be tricky at my office because there is nowhere to heat anything up (only a microwave and a toaster oven).  We do potlucks anyway, it's just that we end up more cold stuff and tons of dessert (fine with me!).