We’re thrilled to share some exciting news straight from our kitchen at Vibrant Occasions Catering! Recently, we were honored with a 2024 ACE Award for Catered Micro Event of the Year. This prestigious recognition celebrates excellence in the catering and events industry, and we couldn’t be more proud of our team for this achievement.

The ACE Awards shine a spotlight on outstanding contributions to our industry, and winning this award is a true testament to our dedication to delivering top-notch catering experiences. This particular award celebrates the best catered events with 100 or fewer guests, and we’re humbled to have clinched this title for our collaboration with the remarkable philanthropist, Cat Sims, for the memorable Dinner on the River.

Dinner on the River was an extraordinary event that epitomized the spirit of community and philanthropy. Held in the heart of Little Rock, Arkansas, this private dinner party, co-hosted by Vibrant Occasions Catering and philanthropist Cat Sims, was a blend of elegance, exquisite cuisine, and noble purpose. Guests were treated to a memorable dining experience set against the scenic backdrop of the river, all while supporting the launch of Sims’ fundraising campaign for the Arkansas chapter of the Children’s Tumor Foundation as a dancer in the Dancing With Our Stars Little Rock fundraising gala. It was a night where every bite served a cause, every conversation sparked inspiration, and every moment left an indelible mark on the hearts of those in attendance.

Now, you might be wondering, what exactly is the ACE Award? Well, let me explain. The ACE Awards are presented annually during an event called Catersource + The Special Event. Catersource is the world’s premier educational resource and expansive network for the catering and events industry. It’s a hub where professionals gather to learn, connect, and celebrate the best of the best in our field. The Special Event is an integral part of this gathering, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and trendsetters for a truly spectacular experience.

Winning the ACE Award is a huge honor for us, but it’s also a testament to the incredible work we do day in and day out. Our team pours their hearts and souls into every event we cater, and receiving this recognition is a validation of our commitment to excellence.

Chef Serge Krikorian says, “As the managing partner and chef of Vibrant Occasions Catering, I can’t express how proud I am of our team’s hard work and dedication. Together, we strive to create unforgettable experiences for our clients, and winning the 2024 ACE Award is a testament to our commitment to delivering the very best.”

This award isn’t just a shiny trophy on our shelf—it’s a symbol of our passion for our craft and our dedication to our clients and community. We’re immensely grateful for this honor, and we look forward to continuing to serve our community with pride and excellence.

Tips for Planning a Private Dinner Party in Your Home

Hosting a private dinner party in your home can be an intimate and memorable experience for you and your guests. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply gathering with loved ones, here are some tips to help you plan a successful and stress-free event:

Define Your Vision: Before you start planning, take some time to envision the type of atmosphere you want to create. Consider the theme, decor, and overall vibe you want for your dinner party.

Create a Guest List: Decide on the number of guests you’d like to invite and make a list of their names. Consider the size of your space and how many people it can comfortably accommodate.

Send Invitations: Once you have your guest list finalized, send out invitations well in advance. You can choose to send traditional paper invitations or opt for digital invites via email or social media.

Plan the Menu: Select a menu that suits the occasion and the preferences of your guests. Whether you’re cooking the meal yourself or hiring a caterer, make sure to consider any dietary restrictions or allergies.

Set the Table: Take the time to set a beautiful table that complements the theme of your dinner party. Pay attention to details like table linens, centerpieces, and place settings.

Consider the Flow of the Evening: Think about how you want the evening to unfold and plan accordingly. Will there be cocktails and appetizers upon arrival? Will dinner be served buffet-style or plated? Consider the timeline and logistics of the evening to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Prepare Your Space: Clean and declutter your home before the event, and make sure there’s plenty of seating for your guests. Consider creating designated areas for mingling, dining, and any other activities you have planned.

Offer Entertainment: Depending on the vibe of your dinner party, you may want to offer some form of entertainment for your guests. This could be background music, a live performance, or interactive activities.

Don’t Forget the Details: Remember to consider all the little details that can make a big difference, such as lighting, temperature control, and bathroom amenities for your guests.

Enjoy Yourself: Most importantly, remember to relax and enjoy the company of your guests. Hosting a dinner party should be a joyous occasion, so take the time to savor the moment and create lasting memories with your loved ones.

By following these tips, you can host a private dinner party in your home that’s sure to be a hit with your guests. Cheers to creating unforgettable experiences and celebrating the spirit of community in the comfort of your own space!

Thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey. Here’s to many more memorable moments and delicious meals ahead!

Read more about the ACE awards and peep all the winners here.

We would like to thank the entire team for their contributions to Dinner on the River.

Co-host & Star: Cat Sims, @catsimsxoxo

Co-host & Private Event Catering: Vibrant Occasions, @vibrantoccasionscatering

Floral Design: Rose of Sharon Floral Design Studio, @roseofsharonfloral

Photography: Lori Sparkman Photography, @lorisparkmanphotography

Music: Central Arkansas Entertainment Agency, @cae_lr

DJ: DJ Jellybean, @djjbean

Planner & Party Designer: Meredith Events, @meredithevents

Public Relations: Meredith Corning PR, @meredithcorningpr

Videography: KB Studios, @kbstudiosar

Balloon Photo Backdrop: Just Peachy, @justpeachylr

Dinnerware Rentals: Eventology, @eventology_us

Wardrobe Stylist: Kimberly Cyr Calhoun, @kimberlycyr

Wardrobe Retailer: Royal We, @royalweprom

Special Guests & Content Creators: @tabithanstaylor, @alexa_hart_, @kailux, @kimberlycyr, @lesley_withrow, @jennymartinphoto, @alishacurtis, @sarahkmeyer

Are you ready to bring a burst of zest and heat to your kitchen? THV11’s The Vine recently showcased an irresistible recipe by our very own chef Serge Krikorian for Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos, guaranteed to elevate your dining experience. Let’s dive into the origins of this dish, explore perfect occasions to serve it, consider delightful pairings, and uncover all the ingredients and steps to inspire you to whip up this delectable creation.

Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos capture the essence of vibrant, coastal flavors. With its roots in Mexican and Latin American culinary traditions, this dish embodies a harmonious blend of tangy lime, zesty garlic, and the kick of chili and paprika. It’s a delightful fusion that mirrors the lively spirit of fiestas and sun-drenched coastlines.

Versatile Settings

From laid-back gatherings with friends to festive celebrations, Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos are the ideal addition to many occasions. 

1. Patio Parties: Hosting summertime patio parties with chilled margaritas and a spread of flavorful tacos.
2. BBQs + Picnics: Acting as a star attraction at family barbecues and beach picnics.
3. Home Dinner: Serving as a fulfilling weeknight dinner that transports you to a coastal paradise with every bite.
4. Weddings: Impress your guests with a unique and flavorful option at your wedding reception. The combination of bold flavors and refreshing margaritas will create a memorable dining experience for everyone.
5. Events: Whether it’s a corporate event or a social gathering, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Their vibrant colors and delicious taste will make them a star attraction, ensuring that your guests leave satisfied and impressed.
6. Office Luncheons: Spice up your office luncheons with a dash of coastal paradise.You can provide your colleagues with a fulfilling and satisfying meal that transports them to a beachside getaway, even during a busy workday.
7. Family Reunions: Bring the flavor of summertime barbecues and beach picnics to your family reunions. This recipe’s tantalizing taste and exotic touch will have your family raving about the meal long after the event is over.

Perfect Pairings

To complement the bold flavors of the Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos, consider the following:

• Margaritas: To complement the bold flavors of the Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos, consider serving them alongside invigorating margaritas.
• Chips and Dip: Top off your taco feast with fresh salsa, crispy tortilla chips, and a side of creamy guacamole to round out the fiesta-inspired spread.
• Side Salad: Fresh fruit salad or a light coleslaw can add a refreshing touch to the meal, balancing the heat of the tacos with a hint of sweetness and crispness.
• Mexican Street Corn: Serve some elote (Mexican street corn) as a delicious and flavorful side dish to complement the zesty flavors of the tacos. The combination of grilled corn, creamy cheese, and tangy lime juice will elevate the overall dining experience.

Never miss a recipe or cooking tip by subscribing to our cooking show on Youtube, Cooking with the Kriks: 

https://www.youtube.com/@CookingwiththeKriks

Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Ingredients:

– 1 lb Peeled and Deveined Shrimp, 31-40 count

– 1 Tbsp. Extra Virgin Olive Oil

– Zest and juice of 1 Lime

– 1 Tbsp. Minced Garlic

– 1/4 tsp. Crushed Red Pepper

– 1/4 tsp. Paprika

– 1/4 tsp. Chili Powder

– 1/4 tsp. Kosher Salt

– Flour or Corn Tortillas

– Habanero Ranch (recipe below)

– Guasacaca (recipe below)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the shrimp with the remaining ingredients and toss to combine. Set aside to marinate for 15 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the shrimp in batches. Sear on one side for 1-2 minutes, flip and sear on the other side until pink all the way through and no longer opaque, 1-2 minutes.
3. Serve in a flour or corn tortilla, topped with Habanero Ranch and Guasacaca.

Habanero Ranch Recipe

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup Ranch Dressing

– 1 tsp. Granulated Garlic

– 1 tsp. Onion Powder

– 1/4 tsp. Habanero Powder

– 1/2 tsp. Ground Black Pepper

– 2 Tbls. Grated Parmesan Cheese

Instructions:

Combine ranch dressing, half the habanero powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly. Check for seasonings, adjust, and serve.

Guasacaca Recipe

Ingredients:

– 5 Avocados, peeled and pitted

– 1/2 of a Yellow Onion, roughly chopped

– 2 Poblano Peppers

– 2 tsp. Minced Garlic

– 2 Tbsp. Chopped Cilantro

– 2 Tbsp. Chopped Parsley

– 3 Tbsp. Vegetable Oil

– 2 Tbsp. Red Wine Vinegar

– 1/2 tsp. Kosher Salt

– 1/4 tsp. Ground Black Pepper

Instructions:

Fire roast the poblanos until blistered and place in a ziplock bag and set aside for five minutes.

Place the onion on a sheet pan and spray with non-stick spray. Roast in a 350-degree oven until cooked through. Peel, stem, and take out the seeds from the poblanos. In a blender, add the roasted peppers, roasted onion, avocado pulp, and vinegar and puree until smooth. Slowly incorporate the oil. Add cilantro and parsley and purée until smooth. Finish with salt and pepper.

These tantalizing recipes are bound to transform your dining experience into a vibrant fiesta that awakens the senses. Gather your loved ones, prepare a pitcher of margaritas, and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the lively flavors of the coast. Illuminate your table with Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos and create unforgettable moments steeped in deliciousness and joy.

So go ahead, bring out your inner culinary artist and let the flavors of the sea dance on your palate! 

Ask us about serving this dish at your next gathering catered by Vibrant Occasions:

https://vibrantoccasionscatering.com/contact-us/

At Vibrant Occasions, we recently had the privilege of being part of a heartwarming event as we sponsored the dinner portion of the annual Second Chance Youth Ranch (2CYR) fundraising banquet. This meaningful gathering took place at the elegant Benton Event Center and brought together individuals, businesses, and organizations with a shared goal of supporting and empowering at-risk youth in our community.

Our involvement in this inspiring event was driven by our deep commitment to philanthropy and community involvement. In an effort to make a significant contribution to this worthy cause, we sponsored a portion of our catering services for the banquet dinner, ensuring that more funds could be directly allocated to programs and initiatives benefiting at-risk youth. If you are interested in donating to 2CYR’s mission, please contact Second Chance Youth Ranch’s office to make a donation by visiting their website, calling their office at 501-594-5200 or emailing office@2cyr.org.

Here are a few of the initiatives provided by Second Chance Youth Ranch:

1. Providing a Forever Home: Second Chance Youth Ranch offers a permanent home for children for whom parental rights have been terminated and adoption is not a viable option, aiming to be the enduring family these children need.

2. Support Services: The organization provides a wide range of support services aimed at helping children succeed, including individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy, parent education/support groups, case management, and educational help and tutoring.

3. Private Placement Agency: As a private placement agency, Second Chance Youth Ranch provides a community of homes for children and teens in foster care, welcoming each child into the home of loving parents and focusing on reaching the most vulnerable children in the foster care system, including large sibling groups, teenagers, and children with therapeutic needs.

4. Licensed Foster Homes: The organization consists of several individually licensed foster homes, some located on beautiful campuses and others dispersed throughout the community, and collaborates with the AR Department of Human Services to recruit, train, and support foster parents to ensure that children are placed in the best possible foster homes.

5. Restoring Families: Second Chance Youth Ranch places top priority on restoring families and works closely with family members to help abused, neglected, and at-risk youth heal and reunify with their families, recognizing that connecting and engaging with the family is critical to successful reunification.

By highlighting these programs and initiatives, it’s evident that Second Chance Youth Ranch is dedicated to providing a supportive and nurturing environment for at-risk youth and prioritizes the goal of reuniting children with their families.

On the night of the fundraiser, our culinary team pulled out all the stops to create an exquisite dining experience for the attendees. With a passion for creating memorable moments, we curated a delectable menu tailored specifically for the occasion. The delightful aroma of slow-braised Cabernet beef short ribs, creamy mashed Yukon Gold, and the tender yet flavorful stuffed acorn squash filled the air, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the event.

The carefully crafted dinner menu captivated the taste buds of the attendees, featuring delectable dishes that catered to diverse dietary preferences. From the savory Cabernet-braised beef short ribs to the indulgent S’Mores Panna Cotta dessert, every culinary creation was crafted with love and care, adding a touch of culinary magic to the evening.

As the night unfolded, the spirit of giving and compassion filled the room, leaving an indelible impression on everyone present. We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have played a role in creating a memorable and impactful evening. We applaud the efforts of 2CYR and all those involved in making the fundraiser a resounding success, and we look forward to continuing to support causes that make a genuine difference in the lives of individuals in our community.

At Vibrant Occasions, we remain committed to advocating for causes that uplift and empower our community, and we are deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such meaningful endeavors.

Photography credit: Rick W Johnson Sports & Event Photography

Vibrant Occasions recently attended the highly-anticipated Make It Better Everyday (MIBE) conference in Denver, Colorado, called The MIBE Summit where we participated in a transformative event dedicated to heart leadership and continuous improvement. It brings together hospitality industry professionals and thought leaders to explore the principles of heart leadership and continuous improvement.

The MIBE Philosophy: Make It Better Every Day

The MIBE conference serves as a powerful vehicle for like-hearted teams to incrementally enhance their business, ultimately achieving results that surpass their prior expectations. Embracing the philosophy of “MIBE-ing,” individuals and organizations strive to create a MIBE vibe by fostering a culture of ongoing improvement and involvement of the entire team. At its core, The MIBE conference is dedicated to inspiring leaders in the hospitality industry with the transformative concepts of heart leadership, fostering joy and fulfillment both in their work and personal lives.

Inspiring Hospitality Leaders with Heart Leadership

Stemming from the journey of April and Anthony, owners of Footers Catering, The MIBE conference offers insights and practical strategies gleaned from their commitment to heart leadership and creating an exceptional workplace. Through workshops, team panels, and real-world examples, The MIBE Summit seeks to empower others to embark on their own journey towards fostering a positive, thriving organizational culture.

Recognizing Heart Leaders at The Mibe Conference

During the conference, Katelyn Reisma, Catering Manager from Vibrant Occasions was named a finalist for The Mibe’s Heart Leader on the Rise, joining an acclaimed cohort of industry professionals who exemplify the spirit of heart leadership. Other finalists for Heart Leader on the Rise included Allison Moening, Executive Pastry Chef at Copper Kitchen, Jared Barnachea, Office Administrator at Catered Too!, Michelle Stout, Recreation Manager at Apex Park & Recreation District and Xavier Vasquez, Catering & Production Manager at NV Catering with Allison Moening named Heart Leader on the Rise 2023.

Chick-fil-A’s Servant Leadership Culture Highlighted 

A notable highlight at the conference was the example of Chick-fil-A’s commitment to fostering a servant leadership culture. Mark Miller, VP of High-Performance Leadership of Chick-Fil-A, was a featured speaker at this year’s conference serving up a compelling discourse on the topic. The company’s extensive investment in studying and championing heart leadership, coupled with their unique business model focusing on selecting and nurturing the right leaders, has set a remarkable precedent. Chick-fil-A’s approach to promoting a positive company culture and investing heavily in selecting the right people and continuous training of their team members has been nothing short of inspiring.

Implementing Heart Leadership at Vibrant Occasions

Drawing from insights shared at the MIBE Summit over the last few years, Vibrant Occasions embarked on a concerted effort to attract top talent, prioritize comprehensive training, and foster an employee-centric, happy workplace. By redefining our core values, mission, and vision statements, and implementing regular culture club luncheons, team-building events, and tailored leadership initiatives, we have cultivated a workplace where team members feel valued, motivated, and empowered. As a testament to our dedication, Vibrant Occasions’ investments in heart leadership have yielded tangible results, including maintaining a low 7.6% turnover rate for regular full and part-time staff over the past four years. 

The Mibe conference proved to be an invaluable platform where Vibrant Occasions, alongside other industry leaders, gained profound insights into the significance of heart leadership and its pivotal role in shaping organizational culture. 

Want to join our team? We can’t wait to hear from you. Fill out the form at the following link:

https://vibrantoccasionscatering.com/join-our-team-vibrant-occasions/