BEO (Banquet Event Order)
A document detailing all arrangements between a venue/caterer and event client.
Definition
A Banquet Event Order (BEO) is the contract between a venue or catering company and the client that details every aspect of food and beverage service: menu selections, quantities, pricing, room setup, service timing, and special requirements. BEOs must be carefully reviewed as they become the operational guide for event execution.
Why It Matters
The BEO is the detailed contract between event planners and venue/catering teams that specifies exactly what will be provided. It's the authoritative document that prevents misunderstandings and ensures expectations are met.
Careful BEO review catches errors before they become problems—wrong menu items, incorrect room setup, missing equipment. Experienced planners know that if it's not in the BEO, it might not happen.
Examples in Practice
A planner catches a BEO listing chicken instead of requested fish, avoiding a dietary disaster at a medical conference.
An event coordinator adds detailed room diagrams to the BEO, ensuring perfect setup without day-of confusion.
A thorough BEO review reveals the venue assumed providing their house wine, not the premium selection discussed—saving significant cost.