7 Tips for Dealing Successfully with Craft Services

Craft services, also known as "crafty," provide food and snacks for people on a TV or film set. Usually, the craft service table is set up away from the busy areas of the set. This gives the crew a place to gather and take a break. A warm meal or a sweet treat is always appreciated during a long day.

Creating a crafty menu can seem overwhelming. This is more so in a crowd that has different tastes and dietary restrictions.

Here are some tips to help you set up an impressive craft service table with ease.

Tips That You Must Follow

1. Exciting Meals

Keeping your team happy often comes down to making mealtime fun. After a long morning, a creative lunch can boost their spirits. Try hot meals like a taco bar and make it special. You could add strawberry guacamole for a twist. You can also ask the Film catering service provider to make homemade tortillas. Keep meals simple but creative and enjoyable.

2. Reap The Benefits of Buying in Bulk

When setting up your own craft services table, purchasing in bulk can simplify planning and save money. Buy items like pasta sauce and canned beans in large quantities. This way you can have enough to feed a big crew. This approach not only helps with budgeting. But it also ensures you won’t run out of essentials. Buying in bulk is practical and efficient. It becomes easier to manage meals for everyone. Plus, it allows you to focus on preparing and serving food, knowing you have all the supplies you need.

3. Keep Extra Supplies

Having extra supplies is smart because you can't always predict what will run out first. Some crew members might prefer sweet treats, like dark chocolate. Others might go for salty snacks, like pretzels or roasted almonds. By keeping a good stock of both sweet and salty options, you're prepared for everyone’s preferences. This way, no one goes hungry and everyone stays happy. If you are well-stocked then you can quickly refill the table. This will keep the crew energized and satisfied throughout the day.

4. Plan for Allergies

Before your crew arrives, it’s important to check for allergies and dietary requests. Some people might avoid dairy or gluten. Others could have severe allergies to certain foods. By asking for this information before filming starts, you can prepare meals that everyone can enjoy safely. This helps you avoid any health issues. It shows your crew you care about their needs. Being proactive about allergies helps to keep everyone healthy and happy. It makes your meal planning more efficient and thoughtful.

5. Prepare Ahead

Meal planning for a large crew is all about preparation. Craft services start early in the morning and go late into the night. So the more you prepare in advance, the easier it will be. You can prepare dishes like quiche or homemade salsa the night before. Have your fruit cut and ready to serve. Pack your car with all necessary supplies ahead of time. Create a to-do list so that you don’t forget anything important. Being well-prepared helps you manage mealtime smoothly.

6. Include Non-Food Essentials

Remember the non-food items that can make a big difference. Crew members appreciate having supplies like tissue paper, hand sanitizers, and wet wipes. These items help them stay clean and comfortable throughout the day. Having items like disposable cutlery, napkins, and paper towels is also essential. Including these essentials in your checklist shows you care about making their day easier and more hygienic. By thinking beyond just food, you can support your crew in multiple ways.

7. Focus on Nutrition

In the past, film crews often consumed junk food, sugary candy, and soda. Today, there's a shift towards healthier and more sustainable options. Crews now prefer nutritious foods that support their well-being and energy levels, especially since working on set is physically demanding. A sugar crash can hinder productivity. So it is better to provide foods like superfoods and proteins that offer lasting energy. Including these healthy options in craft services shows you care about the crew's health. It helps keep everyone energized and focused throughout the day.

Consider These Food Options for Your Crew

Fueling Up: Breakfast

Breakfast is essential for starting the day right and energizing the crew for their work ahead. Focus on easy-to-prepare, hearty, and wholesome options to keep everyone satisfied.

Think about:

· Bagels with cream cheese

· Apples and bananas for snacking

· Croissants with jam, Fruit juice

· Waffle bar with fresh berries

· Granola and yogurt

· Muffins, Scrambled eggs

· Bacon and sausage

· Breakfast sandwiches

· Oatmeal bar, Assorted quiche

· Breakfast burritos

· French toast, Pancakes

· Sliced cheeses and meats

· Coffee, cream, and sugar

Midday Break: Lunch

Lunch provides a vital midday break to relax and recharge without feeling weighed down. Offer dishes that are satisfying yet energizing to help the crew tackle the rest of their day.

Consider:

· Fresh homemade soups like clam chowder and lentil soup

· Chicken and beef burritos

· Pasta with Bolognese sauce

· Different types of burgers

· Tamales with salsa Verde

· Chicken with quinoa

· Jerk chicken with Caribbean fried rice

· Salad bar with various meats and proteins

· Pad Thai with chicken

· Vegetarian and meat chili with cornbread

Evening Nourishment: Dinner

Dinner should be hearty and comforting, especially for crews working late into the night. Serve warm and special dishes to end the day on a satisfying note.

Include:

· Roasted chicken with veggies

· Taco bar with homemade salsas

· Veggie stir fry

· Eggplant parmesan

· Chicken masala

· Braised beef brisket

· Lime cilantro chicken breast

· Grilled salmon

· Meat and veggie lasagna

· Meatloaf with mashed potatoes

Between Meals: Snacks

Keep the crew fueled with fresh and homemade snacks throughout the day to maintain energy levels.

There are hundreds of options you can offer between meals like

· Fresh fruit, Cookies, Pizza

· Sandwiches, Chocolate-covered almonds

· Trail mix, Hummus,

· Cheese and crackers

· Assorted chips

· Coffee, tea, water, fruit juice

· Granola bars, or Cheese

Conclusion

Follow these tips to provide the best food service to your crew on the film set. You may connect with Peepal UK for catering support for your sets. They are also specialized in offering Location catering services. So, make a buzz and tell us about your requirements. We will provide all the assistance that you need.