Tips from Florida’s Busiest Private Events Manager, Sherry Craig.
City Fish Market’s Event Coordinator Sherry Craig, is no stranger to creating the perfect event. At City Fish Market, Boca’s fine dining staple, she’s planned events ranging from large concerts to small weddings. For Sherry, it’s the details that make or break a private event. Here’s a Q & A with Boca’s resident event expert.
How far in advance should people start planning their event?
It really depends on the season. If it’s in season, they need around three months because the books fill up. In an off season, you don’t need as much notice, and while I always try to accommodate last minute needs, the odds are much better that your date will be available if you begin earlier. If your event is in October through May you should plan at least three months out.
What tips do you have for first time event hosts?
Gather information from various venues. Talk with friends and family members and see what they would recommend.
What tips do you have for selecting the perfect event space?
I think everyone has different needs- some people like outdoorsy, some people like bright lights. Visiting the location you’re interested in is key. You really can’t tell certain things about a space until you experience it yourself.
What tips do you have for sticking to a budget?
You’ll definitely get a bigger bang for your buck with daytime parties instead of evening events. Especially with many people in our community being retired, an afternoon party to celebrate a birthday or anniversary is just as convenient but will cost much less. You can also pick an off season for your event to further cut costs. Think outside the box- why not host a cocktail party with hors d’oeuvres instead of a full sit-down dinner? We always work with people on creating exceptional events for guests while staying within their budgets. Also, July and August are months that are ideal for smaller budgets.
How do you create the perfect atmosphere?
There’s really not one perfect vibe. Different events call for different atmospheres. City Fish Market’s vibe is all about openness, airiness, cleanliness, in a bright, architecturally beautiful space with views of water. Every private room here overlooks water.
What are the differences in planning a Power Lunch vs. a Social Soiree?
It’s all about communicating your vision to the event manager. For example, do you want it to be quick, efficient, or do you want it to be leisurely and focused on social relaxation? The pace of an event makes a huge difference and it’s important to decide and communicate what pace aligns with your vision.
How important is it that hosts visit the potential event space?
A picture can show you one thing but walking into a space and experience it is completely different. I don’t think there’s a single photo that really does City Fish Market justice.
What’s the biggest mistake people make in event planning?
Many people come to us without an idea on budget. At least having an idea of what you’re able to spend becomes really important in shaping the framework of your event. We can always accommodate different price points, but to narrow down things like decorations and entertainment, budget really helps steer the conversation.
How should hosts choose Décor and Entertainment?
It’s important to envision your event and make stylistic choices that fit the vision. Fortunately we have connections with every experience coordinator you’d ever want to work with.
What’s the Golden Rule of Event Planning?
Explain to the people you’re working with your goals for the event. The more information you give them, the easier it is for them to help you. It becomes a shared vision.
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We can think of a bunch of reasons why we love lobster: The perfect balance of sweet and savory. Rich, but delicate. Flavorful and delicious in any form. And while we’d like to think every day is National Lobster Day at Buckhead Life, we’ll never complain about an extra excuse to enjoy this beloved seafood. We’re celebrating with two new menus, plus classic menu items from your favorite spots.
The Atlanta Fish Market is no stranger to delicious seafood, but this year, we’ve raised the stakes. To celebrate National Lobster Day, we’ve released a brand-new, lobster-exclusive menu, available all summer long. Whether you like it steamed & cracked, dipped in butter, stuffed, or fried & served with a juicy steak, the lobster choices are plentiful. Each lobster entrée is only 39.95, plus a choice of family-style sides for only $6 additional. *Offer begins June 15 thru August 31.
If you haven’t tried our newest concept, Lobster Bar Sea Grille Miami Beach, we’re giving you the perfect excuse (not that you need one, have you seen our GLOWING, five-star reviews?!): We’re kicking off a brand new menu, Lobster Bar Date Night! Designed for sharing, you may choose from two of our most iconic lobster dishes, the Jumbo, 4lb. Lobster ($99) or The Ultimate Surf & Turf for Two ($136). Don’t be fooled by the name of the menu, either – this menu is perfect for sharing with anyone who loves lobster as much as you do, date or no date! *Offer begins June 15 thru August 31.
And now, for a spotlight on our trusty, go-to favorites.
Chops Lobster Bar (Atlanta, Boca Raton) created some of Buckhead Life’s most iconic lobster dishes. We’re talking Fried Lobster Tails, the gloriously rich Lobster Mash, and of course, the off-menu treasure, Lobster Mac. There are more than a few ways to enjoy your lobster, and don’t forget a USDA prime steak on the side!
City Fish Market is your spot for the Lobster Roll! A shining star on our lunch menu, lobster is served on a toasted New England bun and served alongside perfectly cooked Maryland Fries. It’s definitely the kind of lunch break you deserve.
Finally, there’s Lobster Bar Sea Grille Fort Lauderdale. Try the Lobster Morsels – bite-sized lobster, lightly fried and served with honey-mustard aioli for dipping. If you like your lobster with a little kick, the Chili Lobster is calling your name. Sweet lobster is balanced with a mild, spicy chili butter and served on toast. Trust us, this is one creative approach you’ll love.
No matter which spot you choose to satisfy your summer lobster cravings, it’s safe to say we’ve got the lobster perfect for everyone. Bon Appétit!
“Other restaurants worth a visit: City Fish Market, a perfect waterfront spot for sampling local catch and sister location 