Catering Event Stylist

Catering Event Stylist is responsible for designing and styling the visual elements of an event to ensure it aligns with the vision and enhances the overall dining experience. They work closely with the catering team and clients to create an aesthetically pleasing and cohesive atmosphere. Here's a breakdown of the typical job description for this role:

Job Title: Catering Event Stylist

Responsibilities:

• Design and Conceptualization: Collaborating with the sales team to work with the clients and understand their event theme, preferences, and vision for the theme. Provide a concept deck with suggestions for color schemes, floral arrangements, table settings, linens, and other visual elements that enhance the catering experience.
• Collaboration with operations team; collaborate with the banquet event services team for equipment reservations, logistics, supplies, and other materials needed to ensure the visual plan for the event is well coordinated and followed on the day of the event
• Collaborate with banquet event services and catering managers to ensure that the visual design complements the food and beverage offerings.
• Coordinate with the catering team to determine the best arrangement for food displays, buffet setups, or plated service.
• Table Setup and Arrangement:
• Oversee the setup and styling of tables, including placement of tableware, glassware, flatware, napkins, and chargers. Ensure that the tablescapes align with the overall event theme.
• Floral and Décor Management:
• Source, create, or assist in arranging flowers and other décor items that fit the event's theme.
• Collaborate with our catering florists or other vendors to procure decorative items and accessories such as the vases, candle holders, and signage.
• Logistics and Execution:
• Oversee the setup and breakdown of all event décor, ensuring everything is executed according to plan and on time.
• Supervise the arrangement of food stations, dessert tables, or buffet layouts to ensure they are both visually appealing and practical for guests.
• Vendor Coordination:
• Coordinate with rental companies of tableware, furniture, linens, and other design elements. Manage any additional décor or rental orders for the event.
• Attention to Detail:
• Ensure that all visual elements are consistent, polished, and aligned with the client's expectations.
• Make adjustments as needed and create a flawless look, ensuring that all elements work harmoniously together.
• Client Interaction and Consultation:
• Meet with the catering celebrations expert and client in advance to discuss design ideas, budget, and preferences.
• Provide suggestions based on the client's event type, space, and goals, and offer expert advice on current trends or classic designs.
• Event Coordination:
• Be present during the event to oversee the execution of design plans.
• Ensure that the décor remains in place and is adjusted as needed during the event (e.g., moving floral arrangements or adjusting lighting).

Skills & Qualifications:

• Degree or certification in Hospitality, Culinary Arts, Interior Design, or Events Management (not always required but advantageous).
• Strong aesthetic and creative vision for event design and styling.
• Social media skills (styling for Instagram-worthy presentations).
• Experience in event styling or interior design is preferred
• Knowledge of design trends, color theory, and event décor principles.
• Ability to work within a budget while delivering a high-quality result.
• Proficiency in design software (e.g., SketchUp, AutoCAD, 3ds Max, or similar) is a plus
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

Preferred Experience:

• Previous experience in event design, catering, or hospitality.
• Familiarity with working with different types of events, such as weddings, social events, or corporate events like exhibits, product launches, or PR events.
• Training in food styling, visual merchandising, or event design workshops.
• Experience in startups or boutique catering firms—shows adaptability and creativity on tight budgets.

Job Environment:

• Fast-paced and often requires working long hours, especially on event days.
• Physical work, including setting up and breaking down décor, may be required.
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends based on event schedules.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Budget Adherence: Ensuring the event design stays within the budget while achieving the desired aesthetic is an important KPI. This involves selecting cost-effective materials, vendors, and décor items without compromising quality.

• Target: Maintain 100% adherence to the budget or stay within 10% variance.

Collaboration and Communication: Effective collaboration with catering staff, florists, event planners, and other vendors is essential to ensure a seamless event execution. Clear communication prevents misunderstandings and delays.

• Target: Maintain 90% positive feedback from vendors or team members on collaboration and communication.

Design Execution and Maintenance: should align with the vision while maintaining the high standard of creativity, detail, and cohesiveness. This includes the proper placement of décor, tablescapes, lighting, and any last-minute changes.

• Target: Achieve at least 90% satisfaction rate (measured through post-event evaluations or internal assessments).

Creativity and Trend Awareness: A stylist should consistently present fresh, innovative ideas. This can be measured by how often their concepts push creative boundaries or match current trends. The ability to create custom, one-of-a-kind designs that set the event apart from others.

• Target: Introduce at least (1-2 seasonal) new design concepts per quarter or event season.

Event Impact: Client Satisfaction rate of at least 90% in client surveys or feedback. Positive reviews, referrals, and repeat business. Client Retention: turn one-time clients into repeat clients at least 3 or more events per year

• Target: Achieve at least 90% design consistency with the client's brief.

Timeliness and Project Management (On-Time Delivery): Ensuring all design elements are set up and completed on time is crucial. This includes meeting setup deadlines, client meetings, and finalizing the design. The time it takes to complete the design concept, from the initial consultation to event day.

• Target: 100% of setups completed on time for events.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Additional leave
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Opportunities for promotion
• Promotion to permanent employee

Work Location: In person