Planning an August Wedding or Corporate Picnic? SoCal Catering Tips You’ll Need
Southern California summers are legendary. Long days, golden sunsets, and warm evenings make August one of the busiest months for weddings, corporate gatherings, and family picnics.
But with the perks of peak season come a few challenges: high temperatures, crowded calendars, and outdoor venues that require a little more planning to keep everyone cool, comfortable, and happy.
If you’re planning an August wedding or corporate picnic in SoCal, catering is one of the most important details to get right. Food not only sets the tone for your event, but it also helps your guests stay energized, refreshed, and engaged from start to finish.
At TGIS Catering, we’ve spent decades perfecting the art of summer catering, and we know exactly what it takes to pull off an unforgettable late-summer celebration.
Here are our top catering tips for August events in Southern California.
Embrace the Season in Your Menu
Summer in SoCal brings an abundance of fresh produce, and August is peak harvest season. Designing your menu around seasonal fruits and vegetables doesn’t just elevate flavor—it also keeps dishes light and refreshing for warm weather.
Some seasonal menu highlights to consider:
Fresh fruit displays: Think watermelon wedges, pineapple skewers, or citrus-forward salads with oranges and grapefruit.
Grilled vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and corn on the cob are crowd-pleasers that pair beautifully with both casual and upscale menus.
Seafood favorites: Grilled fish tacos, shrimp skewers, or ahi poke bowls are ideal for beachside weddings or coastal corporate events.
Summer desserts: Frozen sorbets, berry tarts, and citrus cheesecakes bring a cool finish to the meal.
By leaning into what’s in season, you’ll deliver flavor-packed dishes while making the most of California’s natural bounty.
Hydration Is Key
One of the biggest considerations in August is keeping guests hydrated. Hot weather, long ceremonies, and active corporate team-building activities can leave attendees feeling drained if drinks aren’t plentiful and accessible.
Beyond the standard water stations, here are some creative ways to keep your crowd refreshed:
Infused waters with cucumber, lemon, or berries for a spa-like touch.
Signature mocktails for corporate picnics or family-friendly weddings.
Frozen cocktails or margarita stations for evening weddings and adult celebrations.
Iced coffee and cold brew bars to keep energy levels up without overheating.
Think of beverages as more than an add-on—they’re an integral part of your catering strategy in the heat of summer.
Plan for Heat-Friendly Catering Logistics
August weather can be unpredictable in Southern California, especially when it comes to sun exposure and temperatures climbing into the 90s. When planning your catering, it’s essential to consider food safety, serving times, and shaded areas.
Here are a few logistical tips:
Buffet placement matters: Position food stations in shaded or tented areas to keep dishes at the proper temperature.
Choose the right proteins: Opt for grilled meats, fish, or vegetarian options that hold up well in the heat, rather than cream-based dishes that spoil quickly.
Keep cold foods cold: Salads, seafood, and desserts should be displayed on chilled platters or over ice.
Timing is everything: Schedule serving times earlier in the evening to avoid peak heat hours.
Working with a catering team experienced in outdoor events ensures your menu looks and tastes its best, no matter the weather.
Style Your Service for the Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a corporate picnic or a wedding, service style makes a big impact. August gatherings often call for a more relaxed, celebratory vibe.
For weddings, consider:
Cocktail-style receptions with passed small bites to keep guests mingling.
Plated dinners for a more formal feel under the stars.
Food stations that let guests customize dishes, like build-your-own taco bars or pasta stations.
For corporate picnics, think:
BBQ buffets with grilled classics like burgers, chicken, and veggie skewers.
Grab-and-go boxed meals for active, team-based events.
Interactive stations like a nacho bar or ice cream sundae bar to boost engagement.
Tailoring the style of service to the type of event ensures food complements—not competes with—the overall experience.
Make Your August Event Unforgettable
August weddings and corporate picnics in SoCal are full of possibility, but they require thoughtful planning to account for the season’s unique challenges.
With a menu that embraces seasonal flavors, beverage options that beat the heat, and service styles tailored to your event, you can create an experience that your guests will remember long after summer ends.
If you’re ready to start planning your August wedding or corporate gathering, let TGIS Catering guide the way. From menu design to day-of execution, our team is here to make your event stress-free and spectacular.
Contact TGIS Catering today to bring your late-summer celebration to life.
