Planning an event in Aurora, CO, means choosing the right food is key. Decor fades, but guests always remember the meal. Mexican catering is a popular choice for weddings, parties, and company events because it’s vibrant, flavorful, and easy to share. Still, small mistakes when booking can cause big problems.
We have highlighted certain common mistakes that people often overlook while booking a Mexican food catering for an event. Have a quick look!
1. Overlooking Menu Variety
One common error is assuming every catering company offers the same dishes. Mexican cuisine is rich and layered, and the best caterers offer more than basic tacos and enchiladas. If you don’t review the menu properly, you may end up booking a setup that doesn’t suit your guests’ needs.
Ask your caterer about:
- Vegetarian and vegan options (think mushroom tacos or cheese enchiladas)
- Gluten-free tortillas for dietary restrictions
- Specialty proteins such as carnitas, shrimp, or carne asada
- A range of salsa spice levels to satisfy everyone
By taking time to review what’s available, you ensure the spread feels inclusive and exciting.
2. Poor Portion Planning
Another frequent mistake is failing to consider portion sizes. Food either runs out too quickly or there’s far more than the crowd could possibly eat. Both situations are frustrating—running out leaves guests disappointed, while overspending on excess food strains your budget.
To hit the balance:
- Ask how many tacos or servings are recommended per guest
- Add appetizers such as chips, queso, and mini taquitos for variety
- Account for kids and adults separately, since portion sizes usually differ
Local providers of Mexican food catering in Aurora, CO, do this kind of planning all the time and can guide you to the right mix.
3. Ignoring Setup and Timing
A common assumption is that food simply arrives hot, ready to go. The truth? Presentation and timing matter just as much as flavor. Without proper planning, you could end up with cold mains or unorganized serving trays.
Avoid mistakes by:
- Confirming the exact delivery window with the caterer
- Asking if they provide warming trays, chafing dishes, or serving utensils
- Finding out whether on-site staff can assist with setup or serving
In Aurora, where events often happen in outdoor spaces or community halls, keeping food tables organized prevents unnecessary stress.
4. Forgetting About Beverages
A well-designed catering setup doesn’t stop with food. Beverages enhance the meal and complete the Mexican dining experience. Many event planners overlook this detail until the last minute—then end up with mismatched drinks.
Check whether your caterer offers:
- Horchata, tamarindo, or other aguas frescas
- Mexican sodas like Jarritos or Coca-Cola de México
- Full beverage packages for larger group events
When paired thoughtfully, these drinks bring a celebratory touch that complements tacos, enchiladas, and sides.
5. Booking Without a Tasting
This is one of the easiest mistakes to avoid, yet many still make it. Aurora has a wide range of catering companies, and while some specialize in authentic flavors, others lean toward Tex-Mex. Not everyone has the spice levels, seasoning, or traditional recipes you may expect.
Before committing:
- Schedule a tasting with your shortlisted caterers
- Try multiple proteins, salsas, and sides
- Pay attention to tortilla texture and seasoning balance
Tastings help you visualize exactly what your guests will experience, preventing surprises on event day.
6. Skipping Local Expertise
Going with a chain may seem convenient, but it often lacks the authenticity and fresh preparation of a local business. Local kitchens not only bring authentic dishes to the table but also understand Aurora’s event venues and community needs.
Benefits of choosing a neighborhood provider include:
- Fresher ingredients, often sourced nearby
- Flexibility with menu adjustments
- Familiarity with local venues, parking, and serving requirements
It’s no surprise that many organizers search for Mexican food catering in Aurora, CO, and choose long-standing community-based businesses.
7. Neglecting Budget Transparency
Another trap event planners fall into is unclear costs. Without obtaining an itemized quote, you may incur hidden fees for delivery, serving ware, or on-site assistance.
Ask questions like:
- What exactly is included in the per-person cost?
- Are additional sides or salsas extra?
- Do servers or serving staff increase the price?
Clear answers save you from being caught off guard as the event date gets closer.
8. Failing to Consider Presentation
Even if the food tastes great, plastic trays stacked in a corner don’t excite guests. Good presentation matters, especially for weddings and professional gatherings.
Options to ask about include:
- Taco bar stations with labeled trays
- Buffet-style setups that look inviting
- Décor touches like colorful serving containers or garnish displays
Presentation elevates the experience so it feels like catering, not takeout.
9. Forgetting Leftover Planning
Finally, many hosts forget about what happens once the event is over. Mexican food is too delicious to waste, but without planning, trays often get thrown away.
Plan ahead by:
- Asking if the caterer provides extra boxes or packing service
- Deciding whether food will be sent home with guests
- Exploring donation options for leftovers
This helps reduce waste while making the most of your catering investment.
Conclusion
Food is the centerpiece of any gathering. By steering clear of these mistakes, you’ll avoid stress, stick to your budget, and deliver a meal your guests remember. Choosing the right partner for Mexican food catering in Aurora ensures your event feels authentic, vibrant, and most importantly, satisfying.
