Why Italian Catering is the Best Choice for Weddings
When you think of a wedding, food is always close to the top of the list! Great food creates lasting memories and brings people together in such a special way. If you want your wedding to leave a lasting impression, Italian wedding catering is the way to go.
At DiVino at Home, we provide Italian catering for larger weddings, in the Yarra Valley and wider Melbourne. There are so many reasons why Italian food makes a wonderful addition to any wedding celebration, and we’ll take a look at some of them below.
An authentic, timeless dining experience
Italian catering for weddings is delicious, and that’s just a fact. But, people often misunderstand that Italians don’t just cook and serve. There’s more to our delicious, flavourful cuisine. That is, we take you on a journey, crafting a special dining experience for you and your guests. A traditional Italian meal is structured in a way that enhances every bite, making dining a truly immersive experience.
It all starts with antipasto, appetisers, followed by primo or the first course like pasta or risotto, then secondo or the main course, often meat or seafood. Next up is contorni or side dish, followed by sorbetto to cleanse the palate before dolce or dessert. The grand finale and the star is torta nuziale or the wedding cake.
Every dish is thoughtfully prepared to bring a slice of Italy to your guests, making them feel like they’ve been transported to a charming trattoria in the heart of Italy. And if you’d like to change the order in which each course comes out, or create a tailored menu for your wedding, our bespoke catering services are perfect for you.
Enjoy high-quality ingredients
One of the things that sets Italian wedding catering apart is our dedication to fresh, high-quality ingredients. Italian cuisine is all about simplicity and letting the natural flavours shine, which is why we prioritise using the best local produce available.
Fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, creamy mozzarella, and premium olive oil—every ingredient plays a key role. And unlike fast food or overly processed catering options, Italian dishes are often naturally healthy while still being incredibly indulgent. Plus, many Italian wedding catering services offer customised menus, ensuring your spread is tailored to your tastes and dietary needs. Because Italian food is so much more than just pizza and pasta!
Perfect for sharing with your loved ones
Italian catering for weddings is designed to be shared. We’re talking about large platters of pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and gourmet antipasto, this communal style of dining encourages conversation, laughter, and connection, exactly the kind of warm, inviting atmosphere you want at your wedding.
With the rich diversity of Italian cuisine, there’s also something for everyone—even the pickiest eaters. Each region of Italy has its own unique dishes, so whether your guests love hearty Tuscan flavours or the fresh seafood of Sicily, they’ll find something they adore.
Wine pairings for everything
No Italian meal is complete without wine, and Italy just happens to produce some of the world’s best. Italian catering naturally pairs with an incredible selection of wines, from bold reds like Chianti to crisp whites like Pinot Grigio. With expert pairings, each sip enhances the flavours of the meal, creating a dining experience your guests won’t forget.
Family-style or seated dinners
One of the great things about Italian catering for a wedding is its flexibility. Whether you’re planning a relaxed, family-style feast or a formal, multi-course dinner, Italian cuisine adapts beautifully to your vision.
Family-style dining fosters a sense of warmth and togetherness, while a plated meal offers a more elegant, fine-dining experience. Whatever your wedding style, Italian catering can be tailored to match.
Truly romantic dining experiences
There’s something undeniably romantic about Italian food. Maybe it’s because each dish is made with love, or perhaps it’s the deep-rooted tradition of sharing meals with family and friends. Either way, Italian catering for wedding captures the very essence of romance, making it the perfect fit for such occasions.
Imagine sharing a candlelit meal with your loved ones, surrounded by the beautiful ambience of your wedding venue. Your guests will not only enjoy the meal and the festivities but also feel the love and thoughtfulness behind each dish.
Explore our bespoke wedding packages today
Making your wedding a true Italian experience is easier than ever with our bespoke catering packages. At DiVino at Home, we specialise in authentic Italian wedding catering in Yarra Valley and across Melbourne, helping couples and their loved ones create unforgettable memories and truly special dining experiences.
The Beauty of Bespoke Event Catering
Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all catering packages. Every event, big or small, has its own personality, and your food should match the vibe of your celebration. At DiVino at Home, we absolutely love creating meaningful menus that are a perfect fit for your special event.
Whether you’re after a customised menu, a specific ambience, or something completely out of the ordinary, bespoke event catering gives you the flexibility to create a truly memorable dining experience. So, let’s dive into what makes bespoke event catering so special!
What does bespoke catering really mean?
Think of bespoke catering as a tailor-made experience for your taste buds. Instead of settling for a standard package, you get to build a food experience that reflects your vision, dietary needs, and overall event style.
With bespoke catering, you can start from scratch or tweak an existing package—keeping the dishes you love and leaving out the ones that don’t quite fit. It's about crafting an experience that's as individual as your event, all within your budget.
Whether you need gluten-free, vegetarian, or allergy-friendly options, your caterer will ensure every detail is taken care of. That's the beauty of it: it's all about making sure everyone feels catered to.
Bespoke catering is also versatile enough to fit any event, from a formal seated dinner to a laid-back backyard BBQ. Because it’s personalised, you can expect a high level of attention to detail—not just in the flavours, but in the presentation, aromas, and overall dining atmosphere. That's the difference between a standard spread and a truly memorable meal.
Enjoy a tailored Italian catering package
Tailored catering is already a game-changer, but when you add the charm of Italian cuisine? Now that’s a next-level experience. With bespoke Italian event catering, you can craft the perfect menu for any occasion, whether that’s a wedding, a corporate gathering, or an intimate dinner party.
Italian cuisine is rich, diverse, and full of character, offering an incredible range of flavours and textures. In fact, there are hundreds of pasta varieties alone, many of which you may have never even heard of! With the right catering service, like DiVino at Home, you’ll get a true taste of Italy right at your event.
But more than that, Italian food isn’t just about flavour. It’s about bringing people together. There’s something special about sharing a beautifully prepared meal with family, friends, or colleagues. It creates an atmosphere that’s both sophisticated and comforting, making any gathering more enjoyable and memorable.
Authentic meals that you choose
We Italians take our food seriously, and for good reason. It’s all about quality. We're talking fresh, top-notch ingredients that make your taste buds sing. That fresh basil scent? You can't fake that! Using the best ingredients means creating authentic meals that are tailored to your guests' needs. And with bespoke event catering, you get to choose exactly what goes on the menu.
Say there’s a vegan in the crowd, or someone with an allergy to certain ingredients. Our answer is no problem! Not only is Italian food diverse, but it’s also super adaptable, making it easy to create a menu that suits everyone. Whether you’re after a rich, cheesy pasta dish or a light, refreshing salad, there’s something for every palate.
Explore our custom event catering packages today
Formal or casual, big or small, we've got the perfect custom catering package for you. DiVino at Home is here to bring the magic of Italian cuisine to your event, using only the finest ingredients to create an unforgettable experience. Our talented chefs are ready to craft a menu that will leave your guests raving.
So, let's chat! Explore our custom event catering packages and tell us what you're dreaming up. We're ready to make your event a culinary masterpiece.
The Benefits of Professional Corporate Catering
Bringing food directly to your Melbourne office for an event or regular team luncheon sends an incredibly positive message to your team or clients, or whoever else is joining. It makes them feel valued, saves time, and enhances productivity, something every HR professional, administrative assistant, or company executive aims for.
And that’s just the beginning. There are plenty of benefits to investing in professional corporate catering in Melbourne. We emphasise the word professional here because, without it, you risk disrupting your team’s meal, an important event, or even their entire day—and that’s the last thing you want.
So, in this article, let’s explore the key benefits of professional office catering and why it’s a game-changer for your company.
What is corporate catering?
In a nutshell, corporate catering is when a company provides meals for its employees, whether it’s a daily setup, a one-off event, or something in between, like weekly meetings or team lunches. This service is typically offered by dedicated corporate caterers or restaurants with catering options.
The process is also pretty straightforward. A company—often represented by an HR staff or administrative assistant—chooses a professional caterer, discusses the menu and schedule, and then we, the caterer, will deliver the food, or the company can take it from us to save on costs or time.
As a customer, you might be wondering: “Isn’t this just like ordering takeout?” In some ways, yes, there’s a bit of truth to it, but there are also some key differences.
When it comes to corporate catering, we—speaking as a caterer—require you to order your food a quite amount of time in advance (call it advance ordering), especially for large groups. After all, the bigger the order, the more time we need to prepare everything fresh.
Secondly, corporate catering allows for personalised menus tailored to your event or your guests' dietary needs—something you wouldn’t find in most food delivery services.
When should you consider hiring a corporate catering company?
Hiring a corporate catering company is a great solution whenever you need efficient, high-quality, and stress-free meal planning for your business. This works for corporate meetings, office celebrations, or even regular meals for your team, making everything easier and more convenient.
It's especially valuable when presentation and quality count, such as at high-profile meetings, executive lunches, or corporate retreats where making a great impression matters.
The benefits of expert catering
Expert catering offers a range of benefits, from keeping everyone well-fed and enhancing productivity to making a great impression on clients and stakeholders.
If that’s too obvious, let’s talk about some benefits you may have not considered.
Delicious, authentic food
Who doesn’t love a great meal? Bringing restaurant-quality food into the office makes lunch breaks more enjoyable and corporate events more memorable.
Save time
Handling food in-house might sound like a good idea at first, but it’s time-consuming. Sourcing ingredients, cooking, and cleaning up all add up. Leaving it to the pros means you and your team can focus on what truly matters - running your business.
Can be more affordable than self-catering
DIY catering might seem cheaper at first glance, but think about it—building relationships with suppliers takes time, good deals aren’t guaranteed, and there are costs for cooking equipment, staff, and logistics. Professional caterers already have supplier relationships and, over time, can offer even better deals for repeat clients.
Impress guests
If you want to wow important guests, including clients, investors, or stakeholders, catering is your best bet. A poorly planned conference catering can leave a bad impression, while a well-catered event shows professionalism, attention o detail, and appreciation for your guests.
Contribute to a successful event
A great event is one where everyone leaves satisfied, and food plays a huge role in that. Professional caterers ensure dietary needs are met, the presentation is on point, and everything runs smoothly. The result? A seamless, stress-free experience that keeps everyone happy.
Get a bespoke Italian catering service for your event
Exceptional Italian corporate catering in Melbourne is a rare find—but today’s your lucky day. At DiVino at Home, we bring the true taste of Italy straight to your Melbourne office. From authentic pizza slices to sweet gelato or tiramisu, we deliver an Italian dining experience your team and guests will love. Whether you’re in Yarra Valley or Melbourne in general, we’ve got you covered!
FAQs about corporate catering in Melbourne
How much does corporate catering cost per head in Melbourne?
Corporate catering in Melbourne generally starts from about $40 per head, though costs can be higher for custom menus or premium options. If you have a specific budget in mind, let us know! We're happy to recommend the best catering choices to suit your needs without compromising on quality.
Do you provide catering in offices?
Absolutely! At DiVino at Home, we bring authentic Italian flavours to your office. Whether you're craving freshly made pizza, pasta, or our signature DiVino tiramisu, we've got you covered. Just reach out, and we'll help you plan the perfect menu for your corporate event or office gathering.
How many people can you cater for?
We can cater for groups as small as five people or as large as 500+! Whatever your event size, we'll make sure your guests enjoy a seamless Italian dining experience. Just give us a heads-up in advance, and we'll take care of the rest!
Everything You Need for an Unforgettable Dinner Party
Picture this: your favourite people gathered around your table, laughter filling the air, and everyone digging into some seriously good food. Sounds like a dream, right? But let’s be honest—hosting a dinner party can feel overwhelming. What if something goes wrong? What if your guests don’t enjoy the food?
Don’t stress! With the right approach, you can pull off a fantastic dinner party that your family or friends (or both!) will be talking about for a long time to come. Here’s everything you need to know.
Plan, plan, and plan
You can’t go invite everyone and expect them to enjoy your dinner party without you kicking your ass off planning everything. But, don’t get overwhelmed with it because planning an unforgettable dinner party doesn’t have to be such a ruckus, as long as you follow these two key points.
Okay, let's be real. Winging a dinner party is a recipe for chaos. But planning doesn't have to be a drag. Think of it as setting the stage for an awesome night. Focus on these two key aspects.
First, theme. A theme gives your party focus, helps narrow down your options, and makes decisions easier. Don't go overboard trying to be the next Martha Stewart. Keep it simple and fun.
Go with something simple yet effective—something that reflects the season, your personality, or your guests’ preferences. For example, if it’s a chilly evening, opt for a warm and cosy theme with comfort foods and a candlelit ambience.
Second is the guest list and their dinner preferences. Nobody wants to watch their meticulously crafted meal go untouched. Start by jotting down who you want to invite, then send out those invites. Once you get those RSVPs, hit them up with a quick question about dietary restrictions or preferences. It’s a small step that can make a huge difference.
An incredible menu
Whether it’s a small dinner party or a big one, food will always be the star, so it’s essential to get it right. With your guests’ preferences in mind, you can start crafting a menu that’s sure to impress. Remember, keep it simple and stick to what you know. This isn’t the time for a culinary experiment gone wrong.
Once you have the menus in your hand, proceed with prep. Why? Because you don't want to be chained to the kitchen while your guests are having all the fun. Do as much as you can ahead of time so you can actually enjoy the party.
When in doubt, you can never go wrong with Italian dinner party—it’s flavorful, crowd-pleasing, and relatively simple to prepare. A classic spaghetti aglio e olio or a creamy carbonara are excellent options that don’t require hours in the kitchen. Pair them with a fresh Caprese salad and warm garlic bread, and you’ve got a winning menu.
Delicious drinks
A great dinner party needs the right drinks to complement the meal. Start with an aperitif to get everyone’s taste buds tingling. An Aperol Spritz is a classic choice.
For dinner, wine is your friend. But don't just grab any bottle off the shelf. Think about how the wine will complement your meal. And always, always have non-alcoholic options on hand for those who prefer them.
The right decor
The right atmosphere can take your dinner party from good to unforgettable. Luckily, it’s easier to achieve than you might think. Just focus on these three things.
First, the colour scheme. Choose colours that reflect your theme or the mood you’re going for. For example, warm, earthy tones are perfect for a cosy gathering, while bright, vibrant colours will do perfectly bringing a breezy, relaxed feel to the table.
Speaking of tables, you need to take your table settings seriously for dinner parties. Use quality linens, nice tableware, and a killer centrepiece. Then, set the mood perfectly with great lighting, like soft lighting for a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Lastly, we have music. Music sets the mood like nothing else. Create a playlist that matches your theme and keeps the energy up like upbeat jazz, laid-back acoustic tunes, or classic Aussie hits to keep the energy just right, you name it.
Just remember that music is there to enhance the atmosphere, not overpower conversations, so keep the volume at a comfy level where guests can chat without shouting.
Enjoy dinner party catering with DiVino at Home
If the thought of planning and preparing a full dinner party seems overwhelming, consider dinner party catering from DiVino at Home. We can help you take the stress out of hosting by providing delicious, high-quality food and professional service. Feel free to explore our catering options and get in touch with us if you have any questions!
How to Organise Catering for Your Next Event in Melbourne
If you’re planning an event, chances are catering is close to the top of your list. And it should be, because food and drink can really make or break an event! At DiVino at Home, we provide tailored catering packages for events in Melbourne. We bring authentic Italian flavours right to you and your guests. In this article, we’ll provide some handy hints and tips on how to organise event catering.
What does event catering look like?
Catering will look a little different from event to event, depending on the occasion, the number of guests, the food and drink you’ve selected, and the package that you’ve chosen. You may want to organise a formal sit-down meal with multiple courses, or prefer to offer up a buffet or cocktail catering with canapés and grazing tables.
An experienced catering company like DiVino at Home will provide bespoke services to give you the best experience. We’ll work with you to create a menu or package that ticks all of your boxes and more. The key here is to choose a catering package that works perfectly with your event’s atmosphere and takes into account tastes and the dietary preferences of your guests.
How to organise event catering
Choosing a catering service for your next Melbourne event takes some time. It’s important you approach the choice with careful consideration, so that you can pick the caterer that is going to provide the best service, hands down. Here are a few essential tips to keep in mind while planning your event.
Get to know your guests
Understanding your guests' preferences and dietary requirements is really important. Are there any vegetarians, vegans, or guests with allergies? Will you have a mix of people who prefer traditional dishes alongside those who like to try something new? Gathering this information early helps you tailor your menu and avoid last-minute changes. And don’t neglect your own tastes, especially if it’s a celebration for you!
Break down your budget
Before picking a catering service and package, set yourself a clear budget. If you’re organising a corporate event, chances are you’ll already have a budget that you need to stick to. Take into consideration factors such as the number of guests, type of food, and whether you need extras like waitstaff, tableware, or drinks packages and bar staff. Many caterers offer tiered pricing, so having a budget in mind allows you to narrow down your options without overspending. Of course, a tailored package is always handy when it comes to tighter budgets.
Thinking about cuisine
The type of food you serve sets the tone for your event. Italian cuisine is always a crowd-pleaser, offering a mix of hearty mains, fresh salads, and delicious antipasti. Whether you prefer to provide a multi-course meal for guests, or a more casual canape and platter package, ensuring high-quality ingredients and authentic flavours will leave a lasting impression on everyone who attends.
Compare packages
Different catering companies will provide a variety of packages, from all-inclusive dining experiences to more flexible options. Compare what each provider offers, including portion sizes, menus, and service inclusions. Some companies, like DiVino at Home, specialise in authentic Italian catering, which may include handmade pasta, woodfired pizzas, and gourmet appetisers. We provide bespoke packages for all kinds of events, so the choice is yours.
Finalise your event catering company
Once you've compared all of your options, it's time to lock in your chosen catering company! Make sure to confirm menu choices, dietary accommodations, and service details well in advance. Discuss logistics such as delivery times, setup, and whether on-site chefs or waitstaff are included. A good catering company will keep track of all of this and make sure you’re properly informed every step of the way.
Have a great time!
With your catering sorted, you can focus on having a great time with your guests. Working with a caterer like DiVino at Home ensures that food service runs smoothly, allowing you to relax and spend time chatting with your guests, talking business, or tearing up the dance floor. Whether it's a wedding, corporate function, or a private party, great food and exceptional service will guarantee an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.
Enjoy authentic Italian food at your next event with DiVino at Home
If you're looking for high-quality event catering in Melbourne, DiVino at Home brings the flavours of Italy to your event. We specialise in authentic Italian cuisine, and our catering services include traditional pasta dishes, woodfired pizzas, antipasti platters, and decadent desserts, along with a range of different menu options.
Get in touch with DiVino at Home today to discuss your event catering needs and enjoy a truly delicious Italian feast!
FAQs about organising event catering
How far in advance should I book catering for my event?
It’s best to book your catering at least a few weeks in advance, especially for larger events. This ensures availability and allows time to finalise menu choices and logistics.
Can I customise the menu to suit dietary requirements?
Yes! At DiVino at Home, we offer customisable menus to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs.
Do you provide waitstaff and tableware?
We offer full-service catering, including waitstaff and tableware upon request. Let us know your requirements, and we’ll tailor a package for you.
What types of events do you cater for?
We cater for a wide range of events, including weddings, corporate functions, birthdays, and private gatherings. No matter the occasion, we bring authentic Italian flavours to your event.
How is the food served at my event?
We provide various service styles, including plated meals, buffets, grazing tables, and cocktail-style catering. Choose the option that best suits your event’s atmosphere.
Divino at Home: Canapés Catering for The Block at House 5, Phillip Island
It all begins with an idea.
Divino at Home had the incredible opportunity to cater for 120 guests at House 5 on The Block in beautiful Phillip Island. Being part of such a high-profile celebration was an honour, and we brought our signature Italian hospitality to the event with a carefully curated selection of canapés.
A Memorable Evening on The Block
House 5 provided a stunning backdrop for the evening, combining sleek design with breathtaking views of Phillip Island. Our task was to complement this atmosphere with exceptional food and service, ensuring the cast, crew, and guests enjoyed a seamless, flavour-packed experience.
The Canapés Menu
Our team designed a bespoke menu of Italian-inspired canapés that were perfect for a stand-up, social event:
• Caprese Skewers: A classic combination of cherry tomatoes, bocconcini, and basil, drizzled with aged balsamic.
• Mini Arancini: Crispy risotto balls filled with gooey mozzarella, served with a rich tomato sugo.
• Bruschetta Trio: Assorted toppings of tomato & basil, whipped ricotta & honey, and mushroom & truffle.
• Prawn and Lemon Crostini: Juicy prawns paired with zesty lemon aioli on crunchy bread.
• Polenta Chips with Gorgonzola Dip: A vegetarian favourite with a creamy, tangy kick.
Catering for 120 Guests
Catering for such a large group requires precision and passion, and our team delivered! With service running seamlessly for several hours, every guest enjoyed freshly prepared canapés that highlighted the quality and flavour of Italian cuisine.
Why Choose Divino at Home?
This event highlighted what we do best—bringing exceptional food to unique locations. Whether you’re hosting a private celebration, corporate gathering, or large-scale event, our expertise ensures your guests are treated to a memorable culinary experience.
Let Us Cater Your Next Event
Planning an event in Phillip Island or beyond? Contact us today to find out how we can take your event to the next level.