Conference catering’s next big trend: meatless menus.

“A North American market research study found that 35 percent of millennial guests are looking for more vegetarian options on menus,” said Debra Lykkemark, president of Vancouver, British Columbia-based Culinary Capers, in an interview with Special Events. “Plant-based menus are gaining traction due to concerns about climate change and reducing our carbon footprint. This trend will make it necessary to develop new and exciting vegetarian and vegan offerings.”

Afraid you’ll be neglecting meat-loving attendees? Robin Selden, managing partner and executive chef at Naked Fig Catering says the curiosity about meat alternatives draws in palates of all kinds. “We have catered many events for clients who aren’t even living a vegan lifestyle but are just excited to try something new.”

Another catering trend to keep in mind: flavors from around the world. Just as guests are looking to indulge in creative meat-free options, they’re also looking for dishes with distinct taste profiles. Exotic influences, such as Yemeni zhoug sauce or Japanese donburi bowls, are one way to add flair and create a memorable food experience.

Take a Trip Down Association Memory Lane

Celebrate 100 years of association leadership here at #ASAETEC19. We are unveiling our #ASAE100 interactive exhibit! pic.twitter.com/WyIYGPrxv8

— TEC – Technology Exploration Conference (@TECbyASAE) December 3, 2019

Hanging out at ASAE’s 2019 Technology Exploration Conference? Stop by the #ASAE100 exhibition, which highlights how associations have made a difference in the world in the century since ASAE was founded, from the passage of the 19th amendment to marriage equality.

Not there in person? The exhibition is hitting the road and will be onsite at ASAE’s other major conferences over the next year. You can also view the timeline online and submit a story about how your association has made an impact by emailing pr@asaecenter.org. If chosen, it will be added to the timeline.

Other Links of Note

The holiday season is filled with festive distractions. The Web Scribble blog shares how to keep members engaged during the most wonderful time of the year.

Calling all nonprofit communicators: Here’s what to watch for in 2020, according to Nonprofit Marketing Guide.

Worrying about what others think about your organization will stall its growth, argues Inc.

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