When planning a memorable event—whether an elegant celebration at The Forum Event Center or an intimate gathering in your own backyard—one of the most overlooked yet impactful decisions you’ll make is the time of day. The timing sets the tone, shapes your menu, influences your guest list, and even determines how your photos will look. It’s not just about convenience—it’s a matter of time. Audience and Availability Think about who you’re inviting. Are your guests early risers, busy professionals, or families with young children? Morning and brunch events are great for relaxed, family-friendly gatherings, while evenings are ideal for adults looking to unwind and socialize. Event Type and Atmosphere tone of your event often dictates the best time of day. Morning events feel fresh, energetic, and informal—perfect for showers, networking brunches, or team-building sessions. Afternoon affairs offer balance and brightness—great for luncheons, garden parties, or open house-style celebrations. Evening events bring a touch of elegance and intimacy—perfect for weddings, galas, milestone birthdays, and formal receptions. Menu and Catering Style Innovative Catering Concepts specializes in designing menus that complement your chosen time. Brunch buffets, cocktail hours, plated dinners, or late-night snacks each time slot invite a different culinary experience. Think fresh fruit and pastries for the morning, gourmet sliders and champagne for the evening, or a full-course dinner at golden hour. Lighting and Photography Natural lighting can be a photographer’s best friend. Morning and afternoon light tends to be soft and flattering, while sunset offers golden hour magic. Evening events may require mood lighting, candles, or uplighting to create ambiance and help your decor shine. Weather and Season In warmer months, consider the temperature at different times of day. A summer afternoon may be too hot for an outdoor celebration, but a sunset soirée could be right. In colder seasons, earlier start times can better use daylight hours and ensure guests stay warm and comfortable. Venue Availability The Forum Event Center offers flexible scheduling with multiple event time slots. Booking early increases your chances of securing the perfect window, especially for high-demand dates like weekends and holidays. Budget Considerations Believe it or not, timing can affect your event budget. Morning and weekday events may have lower venue rental and catering costs than Saturday evening prime-time slots. Hosting a beautiful event doesn’t always mean picking the most traditional time. Make It Yours At the end of the day, the best time for your event is the one that aligns with your vision, your guests, and your goals. Whether planning a sunrise ceremony, a midday milestone, or a candlelit celebration, Innovative Catering Concepts and The Forum Event Center are here to make your experience seamless, flavorful, and unforgettable. Let’s plan the perfect event —on your time!

In the hospitality industry, long hours, fast-paced environments, and the pressure to deliver exceptional service can take a toll. That’s why building a family-style staffing environment is not just a feel-good initiative—it’s a smart and essential business strategy. At Innovative Catering Concepts and The Forum Event Center, we believe that creating a workplace rooted in respect, support, and unity is key to our continued success. When staff members feel like family, they show up differently. They take ownership of their roles, look out for one another, and go the extra mile for guests. This camaraderie leads to better communication, smoother event execution, and a more enjoyable experience for everyone involved. A strong internal culture radiates outward, making clients and guests feel the warmth and care that defines exceptional service. Hospitality is a people-first industry that starts with how we treat our teams. We prioritize mentorship, collaboration, and inclusion, creating an environment where every team member feels seen, valued, and empowered to grow. Everyone plays a part in our shared success, from seasoned chefs and event captains to new team members joining us for their first big event. As we continue to grow, we’re looking for passionate individuals who want to be part of something more than just a job. We’re building a family—one plate, one event, and one unforgettable experience at a time. If you're ready to work hard, learn fast, and be part of a team that supports each other like family, we’d love to meet you. Join us at Innovative Catering Concepts and The Forum Event Center. Apply today: info@icccatering.com www.icccatering.com

We Bring the Party to You! Graduation season is here, and it’s time to celebrate the achievements of your remarkable graduates! Whether you're planning an intimate backyard gathering or a significant outdoor event, Innovative Catering Concepts is here to make your celebration effortless, delicious, and memorable. We Specialize in Off-Site Catering — Bringing the Party to You! Our team handles everything from setup to clean-up, allowing you to focus on what matters most — celebrating with family and friends. With a variety of customizable menu options, professional service, and a commitment to excellence, we make it easy to host a stress-free and unforgettable graduation party wherever you choose. Why Choose Innovative Catering Concepts? Flexible off-site catering for homes, parks, venues, and more Customizable menus to match your taste and style Experienced staff ready to handle all event details Delicious options for every dietary need and preference Timely, professional, and reliable service Graduation season is one of our busiest times — don’t wait!Place your orders now and let Innovative Catering Concepts help you create a celebration your graduate will never forget. Contact Us Today! CALL: (856) 740-3352 EMAIL: info@icccatering.com Celebrate smart. Celebrate deliciously. Celebrate with Innovative Catering Concepts.

Style Meets Celebration at The Forum Event Center At Innovative Catering Concepts and The Forum Event Center, we believe that every great event begins with a beautifully set table. From weddings and galas to showers and milestone celebrations, the table is where guests gather, conversations flow, and memories are made. But it’s more than just silverware and centerpieces—it’s an art form that sets the tone for your entire celebration. Here’s how we bring the art of the table to life: 1. Start with a Statement Piece - Every perfect table begins with a vision. Whether it’s a bold charger plate, textured linen, or an elaborate floral centerpiece, we help our clients choose a focal point that reflects their theme, personality, and the energy of the event. 2. Layer with Intention - From plates and glassware to flatware and folded napkins, we believe in layering with purpose. Each element has a role to play—creating depth, adding color, and telling a story. Our team makes sure every piece complements the next for a cohesive and elevated look. 3. Add a Personal Touch - Place cards, menu cards, or custom favors tucked into napkins can make guests feel welcomed and appreciated. We love working with clients to add thoughtful touches that make each place setting feel special and unique. 4. Lighting is Everything - Candles, twinkle lights, and uplighting create mood and warmth. We collaborate with our design team to ensure the lighting highlights your tablescape and enhances the overall atmosphere of your celebration. 5. Don’t Forget Function - As beautiful as the table may be, it must still function! We strike the perfect balance between style and space, making sure guests have room to dine comfortably while still enjoying all the visual elements of the setting. At The Forum Event Center, we provide the ideal canvas for creativity. Paired with the culinary expertise and design precision of Innovative Catering Concepts, your event is guaranteed to be as delicious as it is stunning. Planning your next event? Let’s set the perfect table together.109 N. Black Horse Pike, Blackwood, NJ 08012 info@icccatering.comwww.icccatering.com The Forum Event Center & Innovative Catering Concepts – Where Style Meets Celebration.

Ready to ditch the traditional cake? At The Forum Event Center, we know weddings are all about personal touches—and that includes dessert. While a traditional tiered wedding cake will always have its place, more and more couples are thinking outside the cake box and embracing creative, crowd-pleasing alternatives for their big day. Whether you're looking to break tradition or just want to surprise your guests with something unexpected, here are some fun and delicious dessert ideas that go beyond the cake: 1. Mini Dessert Bars - Think bite-sized brownies, cheesecake squares, lemon bars, and fruit tarts beautifully displayed for a grab-and-go treat that’s as elegant as it is tasty. 2. Donut Walls - Stacked, glazed, frosted, or filled—donuts are a fun, interactive display piece and a sweet hit with guests of all ages. 3. Ice Cream Sundae Stations - Let your guests build their dream dessert with an assortment of ice cream flavors, toppings, sauces, and cones or cups. 4. French Macaron Towers - These colorful, delicate confections create a stunning visual centerpiece and offer a sophisticated twist on traditional sweets. 5. Cupcake Collections - Offer a variety of flavors and frostings to suit every guest’s taste. Bonus: They’re easy to serve and make for picture-perfect displays. 6. S’mores Bars - Perfect for outdoor receptions or rustic-themed weddings—complete with marshmallows, graham crackers, chocolate, and a safe roasting station. 7. Milk & Cookie Shooters - Serve classic cookies alongside shot glasses of milk or milkshakes for a nostalgic and interactive treat. 8. Churro Cones or Bites - Serve up warm cinnamon sugar churros with dipping sauces like chocolate, caramel, or dulce de leche. 9. Waffle or Pancake Stacks - Brunch weddings or late-night receptions are the perfect excuse to add a stack of syrup-drizzled goodness to your dessert table. 10. Gelato or Sorbet Carts - Add a European flair with a sleek cart offering chilled options that are both refreshing and elegant. Whether you're looking to wow your guests or simply want to serve something that reflects your personality as a couple, The Forum Event Center is here to help bring your vision to life—one sweet idea at a time. Ready to ditch the traditional cake and consider some alternative dessert ideas?! Let us help you craft a custom dessert experience your guests will never forget.Contact us today: info@icccatering.com www.icccatering.com 109 N. Black Horse Pike, Blackwood, NJ 08012 The Forum Event Center – Where Sweet Celebrations Begin.

The catering world is evolving fast, and clients crave more than just great food—they’re looking for unforgettable experiences. Whether you're planning a corporate event, wedding, or private celebration, staying ahead of the latest catering trends can help you create delicious and deeply memorable moments. Here are the top catering trends to watch this year that are shaking up the industry and reshaping what modern catering looks like: 1. Interactive Food Stations - Think build-your-own poke bowls, custom taco bars, and live pasta-tossing stations. Guests love being part of the process, and these interactive setups make dining engaging and personalized. 2. Elevated Comfort Food - People want the flavors they know and love—with a gourmet twist. Think truffle mac and cheese, lobster grilled cheese, or deconstructed chicken pot pie served in mini cast iron skillets. 3. Global Flavors with Local Flair - Fusion menus continue to thrive, with bold, international flavors front and center. Whether it’s Korean BBQ sliders, Moroccan spiced veggies, or Peruvian ceviche, diversity is a must—and local ingredients keep it fresh and unique. 4. Plant-Based and Inclusive Menus - Today’s guests expect more inclusive options—from plant-based entrees to gluten-free desserts. Offering vegan, dairy-free, and allergen-aware items isn’t just thoughtful—it’s a standard now. 5. Grazing Tables & Charcuterie Art - Grazing tables have transformed from a trend to a must-have. These overflowing displays of meats, cheeses, fruits, and snacks double as edible centerpieces and conversation starters. 6. Eco-Conscious Catering - Clients are looking for caterers who care. Sustainable sourcing, compostable packaging, and waste-free service options are in high demand—bonus points for using local farms and minimizing single-use plastics. 7. Mini Everything - From tiny tacos to petite cupcakes, bite-sized eats are big this year. They’re easy to enjoy while mingling and perfect for offering various flavors without overwhelming the menu. 8. Signature Sips & Mocktails - Customized drink stations—both spirited and spirit-free—are having a moment. Think branded mocktails, infused water bars, or cocktail carts with fresh herbs and garnishes. 9. Themed Catering Experiences - Themes are in! Whether it’s a tropical luau, rustic chic picnic, or retro diner vibe, events are leaning into full sensory storytelling, and the catering has to match. 10. Hybrid & Drop-Off Catering Options - Drop-off catering with creative packaging and heating instructions is becoming a go-to option for more intimate or hybrid gatherings. It’s convenient, safe, and still delivers a high-end experience. Catering in today’s world is about more than serving food—it’s about curating moments that matter. By embracing these trends, you’ll impress your guests and provide a positive experience.

Philadelphia’s food truck scene is booming—with everything from gourmet grilled cheese to global street food served up fresh on city corners, festivals, and local events. But if you’re new to the food truck game, there are a few unspoken rules to remember to ensure your experience (and everyone else’s) is smooth, fun, and delicious. Whether you're strolling through one of our Philadelphia Eats food truck events or catching lunch curbside, here’s your quick crash course in Food Truck Etiquette 101: 1. Come Prepared (Cash or Card!) Most modern food trucks accept cards, but it’s always smart to have some cash on hand—especially for smaller or newer vendors. Check the menu before you get in line to be sure you’re ready to order when it’s your turn. 2. Know What You Want Before You Hit the Window While it’s okay to take a quick peek at the menu, try to decide on your order before you reach the front of the line. Food trucks often have long lines and quick service windows, so being ready helps keep things moving for everyone. 3. Respect the Line Food trucks don’t have formal queues with ropes or stanchions, so it’s up to us to keep it civil. Pay attention to where the line starts, and don’t cut—Philly folks love their food and will notice. 4. Don’t Crowd the Pickup Window Once you’ve ordered, step aside and wait patiently for your name or number to be called. Hovering near the window can slow things down and make it harder for staff to work their magic. 5. Be Polite—Even If There’s a Wait Remember, most food trucks are small operations with limited space and staff. The wait might be longer than you expect during lunch rushes or festivals. A little patience and kindness go a long way—and trust us, the food is worth it. 6. Clean Up After Yourself If outdoor seating or a public eating area is nearby, toss your trash and take any leftovers with you. Food truck events rely on public goodwill to keep popping up around the city—help keep Philly clean! 7. Show Some Love on Social Media Have you tried something amazing? Snap a pic, tag the truck, and share the love! Reviews, shoutouts, and tags help local food trucks grow their following and let others know about your great find. 8. Tip If You Can Like at your favorite cafe or restaurant, tipping is always appreciated—even if it’s just a buck or two. It supports the hardworking teams that keep Philly’s food truck scene flavorful and fun. Philly Eats on the Go Food trucks are more than just mobile meals—they’re part of Philly’s heart and hustle. So whether you’re trying a new vendor at one of our events or grabbing lunch in University City, you’re ready to roll like a seasoned street food pro.

Planning an unforgettable event starts with the right space—and at The Forum Event Center, you’ve got the perfect canvas to create a stunning, personalized experience. Whether you're hosting a wedding, baby shower, corporate mixer, or milestone birthday bash, thoughtful design and décor can set the tone and bring your vision to life. Here are five fabulous event design and décor tips to help you level up your next gathering with style, flair, and unforgettable detail: 1. Pick a Signature Color Palette Start by choosing a cohesive color scheme that reflects the mood of your event—think soft pastels for showers, bold jewel tones for galas, or classic neutrals with metallic pops for a timeless look. The Forum’s versatile space makes bringing any palette to life easy through linens, florals, balloons, and more! PRO TIP: For visual interest, add subtle texture with velvet napkins, sequin runners, or rattan accents. 2. Create an Instagram-worthy focal Point Every great party needs a photo moment! Design a fun focal point like a flower wall, balloon arch, custom neon sign, or vintage lounge setup. These features wow your guests and give them the perfect backdrop for capturing memories. PRO TIP: Add branded elements for showers or corporate events—like personalized signage or custom props. 3. Use Creative Lighting to Set the Mood Don’t underestimate the power of lighting! Soft uplighting, fairy lights, or even LED dance floor lights can completely transform the energy of a space. Whether romantic, energetic, or elegant—you can set the tone with the right glow. PRO TIP: Add candles in varied heights or lantern clusters for cozy, intimate vibes. 4. Incorporate a Theme or Experience Station Do you want to surprise your guests? Design your event with a playful theme or add an interactive experience like a mimosa bar, dessert cart, cigar lounge, or even a glam station. These creative details make your celebration extra fun and unique. PRO TIP: A custom charcuterie wall or taco station by Innovative Catering Concepts—delicious and Insta-friendly! 5. Mix High and Low Table Décor for Visual Balance Combine tall floral arrangements with low candle clusters or mix and match centerpieces to create dimension throughout your event space. Varying heights keep the eye moving and give the room a more dynamic, professionally styled look. PRO TIP: Add a splash of greenery for a fresh, natural finish that complements any theme. Ready to Design Your Dream Event?  No matter your vision, The Forum Event Center is the perfect place to bring it to life. With flexible space, expert vendors, and Innovative Catering Concepts' creative touch, your next event is sure to be stylish, seamless, and absolutely unforgettable.

At The Forum Event Center and Innovative Catering Concepts, we believe that every occasion—big or small—deserves to be celebrated. Whether it’s a milestone birthday, a baby shower, a wedding, a retirement party, or a “just because” gathering, these moments create more than memories—they nurture joy, connection, and well-being. Life’s Worth Celebrating Life moves fast, and letting special moments slip by is easy. But pausing to celebrate is a powerful act of gratitude. We feel the value of togetherness in the baby giggles at a first birthday party, the proud smiles during graduation dinners, and the warm hugs at family reunions. From elegant wedding receptions to cozy holiday dinners, each event is a chapter in your life story—and every chapter deserves a celebration. Celebrations Are Good for Your Health Research shows that spending time with loved ones improves mental health, reduces stress, and boosts happiness. Laughter around a table, shared stories, and heartfelt toasts contribute to a sense of belonging and emotional resilience. Celebrating together is not just tradition—it’s therapy for the soul. A Space to Come Together At The Forum Event Center, we’re honored to provide a beautiful space for your most cherished occasions. Paired with Innovative Catering Concepts' culinary creativity, your event becomes an unforgettable experience of flavor, style, and ease. Whether you’re hosting a 50th anniversary celebration or a Friendsgiving dinner, we’re here to bring your vision to life—so all you have to do is enjoy the moment. Celebrate Often. Celebrate Well. So gather your people, raise a glass, and make lasting memories. When we celebrate life, we enrich it—and that’s always worth doing.

Graduation is a milestone worth celebrating in style! Whether you're honoring a high school or college graduate, throwing an unforgettable party requires careful planning and the perfect venue. The Forum Event Center provides an exceptional space to host a seamless and memorable event. Here’s your ultimate guide to planning the best graduation party and a checklist to keep everything on track! Step 1: Choose the Perfect Venue The proper venue sets the tone for your celebration. The Forum Event Center offers spacious accommodations, flexible layouts, and top-tier amenities to make your graduation party successful. Consider factors like guest count, entertainment options, and catering needs when booking your space. Step 2: Pick a Date and Time Graduation season is busy, so secure your date early! Weekend afternoons or early evenings are excellent choices for maximum attendance. Be mindful of other graduation ceremonies and summer travel plans. Step 3: Send Out Invitations Once your venue is booked, send digital or printed invitations 3-4 weeks in advance. Be sure to include: Date and time Venue address (The Forum Event Center!) RSVP details Dress code, if applicable Step 4: Plan the Menu Whether you opt for a formal dinner, buffet, or light refreshments, ensure your menu suits your crowd. Consider hiring a caterer to relieve stress—The Forum Event Center allows easy catering setups! Step 5: Set Up Decorations & Theme Create a celebratory atmosphere with decorations that reflect the graduate’s personality and achievements. Popular themes include: School colors Future career inspiration Travel or adventure themes Step 6: Organize Entertainment & Activities Keep guests engaged with fun activities like: A photo booth with props A memory station for guests to leave messages Music and dancing A slideshow of the graduate’s journey Step 7: Prepare a Speech or Toast A heartfelt speech adds a personal touch. Encourage family and friends to share their congratulations and well wishes. Graduation Party Checklist Book The Forum Event Center early Confirm the guest list and send invitations Choose a menu and arrange catering Plan decorations and order supplies Organize entertainment and music Set up a photo station and guestbook Coordinate a speech or toast Confirm final headcount and logistics Enjoy the celebration!

Spring is approaching, so it’s time to fire up the grill and gather with friends and family for some incredible BBQ!  Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash, corporate picnic, or outdoor celebration, the right menu makes all the difference. With Innovative Catering Concepts’s expert off-site catering, you can bring the best flavors of BBQ straight to your event.  Here are the top 10 BBQ menu items guaranteed to impress your guests! 1. Smoked Brisket - A BBQ must-have, smoked brisket is slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in tender, juicy slices packed with rich, smoky flavor. Pair it with tangy BBQ sauce for an unforgettable bite. 2. Pulled Pork - Pulled pork is a crowd favorite, offering melt-in-your-mouth goodness with every bite. Serve it on a soft bun with coleslaw for a classic pulled-pork sandwich, or enjoy it with house-made BBQ sauce. 3. BBQ Chicken - Juicy, flavorful, and coated in a smoky-sweet BBQ glaze, grilled or smoked chicken is a staple at any BBQ event. Opt for wings, drumsticks, or bone-in quarters to satisfy all tastes. 4. Ribs (Baby Back or St. Louis Style) - No BBQ is complete without fall-off-the-bone ribs! Whether you prefer baby back ribs for their tenderness or St. Louis-style ribs for a meatier bite, this dish is always a showstopper. 5. Grilled Sausages - Perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection, sausages add variety to your BBQ spread. Choose from spicy andouille, classic bratwurst, or smoked sausage links for a delicious bite. 6. Mac & Cheese - A creamy, cheesy side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ meats, mac & cheese is a must-have comfort food that keeps guests returning for more. 7. Baked Beans - Sweet, smoky, flavorful baked beans are the ultimate BBQ side dish. Slow cooking with bacon and molasses adds a rich, hearty touch. 8. Cornbread - Soft, buttery cornbread with a hint of sweetness is the ideal complement to smoky BBQ flavors. Serve it warm with honey butter for an extra special treat. 9. Coleslaw - A refreshing contrast to rich BBQ meats, coleslaw adds a crisp, tangy crunch to any plate. Whether creamy or vinegar-based, this side dish is always a winner. 10. Grilled Vegetables - For a lighter option, grilled veggies bring a smoky charred flavor to the table. Zucchini, bell peppers, corn on the cob, and asparagus make a colorful and delicious addition to your BBQ spread. Plan Your BBQ Event with Innovative Catering Concepts Let Innovative Catering Concepts take your next BBQ event to the next level with expertly prepared dishes and professional off-site catering services. Whether you're planning a corporate gathering, wedding reception, or family celebration, our team ensures that every bite is packed with bold, authentic flavors. Ready to book your BBQ catering? Contact Innovative Catering Concepts today, and let’s start planning an unforgettable event filled with delicious food and great company!

A Guide by Innovative Catering Concepts When planning an event, the food you serve can make or break the experience for your guests. That’s why hiring the right caterer is crucial. At Innovative Catering Concepts, we specialize in providing exceptional off-site catering tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're planning a corporate function, wedding, or social gathering, here are six key things to consider when hiring your ideal caterer: 1. Menu Customization Your event is unique, and your menu should be too! Ensure your caterer offers customizable options that align with your event’s theme, dietary needs, and guest preferences. At Innovative Catering Concepts, we craft menus that cater to diverse tastes while maintaining a high standard of quality and presentation. 2. Venue Compatibility Not all caterers are equipped for off-site catering. Confirm that your caterer is experienced in working at different locations and can accommodate the logistics of your chosen venue. Our team is well-versed in handling off-site setups, ensuring a seamless dining experience wherever your event occurs. 3. Guest Count & Portion Planning An accurate headcount is essential for determining how much food you’ll need. Work with your caterer to ensure enough to go around without excessive waste. Our experts help you estimate the correct portion sizes to satisfy all your guests. 4. Service Style Options Would you prefer a plated dinner, buffet, family-style meal, or food station? Discuss the available service styles with your caterer to find the best fit for your event’s atmosphere. We offer various service options to match your vision and enhance the guest experience. 5. Dietary Restrictions & Allergies With an increasing need for dietary accommodations, your caterer should offer options for guests with allergies, gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan preferences. At Innovative Catering Concepts, we take special nutritional needs seriously and provide delicious alternatives for everyone. 6. Tasting & Quality Assurance Before finalizing your caterer, request a tasting session to ensure the food meets your expectations. This also allows you to discuss presentation and flavor preferences. We offer tastings so you can experience our culinary excellence firsthand. 7. Logistics & Setup Requirements Ask about the caterer’s setup and breakdown process. Do they bring their tables, linens, and servingware? Will they need access to a kitchen? We take care of all logistical details so you can focus on enjoying your event. 8. Budget & Pricing Transparency Catering costs can add up quickly. Ensure your caterer provides a clear breakdown of costs, including food, staff, rentals, and additional fees. Our team provides transparent pricing so you can plan accordingly without surprises. 9. Reputation & Experience Check online reviews and testimonials, and ask for references before committing to a caterer. With years of experience in off-site catering, Innovative Catering Concepts is known for delivering exceptional service and unforgettable dining experiences. 10. Sustainability & Sourcing If sustainability is important, ask about your caterer’s sourcing practices. We are committed to using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, ensuring fresh flavors and a reduced environmental impact. Make Your Event Unforgettable with Innovative Catering Concepts Choosing the right caterer is one of the most critical decisions for your event. Innovative Catering Concepts offers customized, high-quality, and seamless off-site catering solutions. Let’s bring your vision to life—contact us today to start planning your perfect menu!