Food is an important part of your workshop. Check with the site's caterer or visit caterers early in your planning. Ask about the cost and variety of meals and room set-up options. Compare cost differences for sit-down meals versus buffet lines; served meals may be best if there is a speaker. Always ask what gratuities and service fees apply to food functions.

Find out if there are additional charges for and the availability of special diets such as vegetarian, low-salt, diabetic or Kosher meals. Ask if box lunches are an option for off-site events. If you set up a beverage bar, learn if the caterer requires a minimum sales figure. Find out if the hotel offers room service and when final menus and numbers must be submitted.

Beverages and snacks are essential during breaks. Some conference sites include breaks as part of the hospitality fee. Always provide a variety of hot beverages, breakfast breads, and fruit or juice at morning breaks. Offer a variety of juice, soda and bottled water along with cookies, fruit or other snacks in the afternoon. Water pitchers and glasses in meeting rooms are popular with workshop participants and speakers.

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