FOOD: Running Wild Catering

With the feasts and festivities
of the holidays under our belts (literally!), it’s hard to imagine having to
plan one more party or even look at decadent foods again for a while. Yet for
many event planners and newly engaged brides-to-be, January kicks off an
exciting time of menu and venue planning. So while most of us are starting new
exercise programs and choking down salads this month, the experts will be busy
making preparations for all the business and social functions we’ll attend in
the coming year.

Whether it’s a corporate
luncheon, wedding reception, casual party or black tie event of the season, the
food ultimately sets the mood, making it one of the most important aspects of
event planning. If you’ve noticed a more engaging, interactive atmosphere at
some of the functions you’ve attended lately, it’s likely thanks to the
well-executed menu and clever serving methods that are setting hot new trends
in catering.

Creativity reigns supreme in the
world of catering today as party hosts seek decorative displays, interactive
food stations and small-plate menus which motivate guests to mingle as they
munch. Running Wild Catering, a legendary Oklahoma City company with 16 years
of expertise, specializes in creating custom menus with tremendous diversity
and flair. Formerly Johnnie’s Catering, the company changed its name in 2010,
embracing an exciting new culture in food service that encourages clients to
let their imaginations run wild in planning the perfect fare to complement the
theme of an event.

Debbie Lowery, one of three
owners at Running Wild Catering, began her career in the restaurant business,
became a certified chef and quickly discovered her passion for catering. “In a
restaurant, I didn’t always see my customer,” Lowery recalls. “In catering you
are with the customer all the way. And the reward at the end of a successful
event, when the client tells you, ‘Good job; we loved the food!’ makes your feet
and back not hurt so bad.”

Catering more than 60 weddings a
year, Running Wild also provides food for monthly corporate events, the medical
community, private home catering and offers holiday boxed dinners as well. In
addition, they assist customers with venue, entertainment, décor and
professional bar service options. Lowery believes the company’s focus on good,
everyday foods in abundant proportions, at fair prices, has contributed to its
success.

Also behind the success is
Executive Chef Teresa Walters who excels at creating virtually any food a
client desires. As Lowery notes, “We love a challenge when it comes to themes
and food, and we love to decorate our tables to match the event.” Comfort foods
and themed fare like Mexican and Italian are always a hit. Clients can view a
remarkable menu of delicious sauces, inventive appetizers presented in the most
artistic ways, breakfast items and amazing desserts to get their creative
juices flowing. Italian foods are always a hit, including a pasta bar that
allows customers to choose their own meats, sauces and pasta. One of the most
popular appetizers is the Caesar Grilled Chicken or Pork Carnitas on Sweet
Potatoes.

Whether creating a Wild West,
garden party or cookie bar theme, this reputable company has earned its place
as a preferred caterer. One of the most interesting requests they once handled
was an outer space theme. The staff had fun with the presentation and
décor.  And the food, of course, was out
of this world.

Running
Wild Catering is located at 8330 Glade, Ste. D in Oklahoma City. Contact them
at 751-7721 or runningwildcatering.com.