Big or small, a clear timeline turns good food into a great event. Use this simple hour-by-hour plan to keep service smooth and guests happy.
T–72 to T–48 hours:
- Confirm headcount and dietary notes (vegan/GF).
- Place your order and select a pickup time 20–30 minutes before guests arrive.
T–24 hours:
- Review your confirmation email for quantities and notes (pre-sliced/hinged, labels, utensils).
- Assign roles: 1 person for pickup, 1 for setup.
T–60 minutes:
- Clear a flat surface; lay out platters, parchment, and tent cards (“GF,” “Vegan,” “Contains Sesame”).
- Chill drinks; slice lemons; rinse herbs.
T–30 minutes (Pickup):
- Swing by Go Bagels for local pickup. We’ll have boxes labeled and utensils packed if requested.
- Text your setup lead: “On the way.”
T–20 minutes (Setup):
- Place bagels first, schmears in the center, veggies and herbs at the end.
- Keep gluten-free on a separate parchment-lined plate with its own knife and tongs.
- Snap a pre-service photo (you’ll want it!).
T–5 minutes (Brief):
- Announce where GF/Vegan items live; point out labels.
- Hold back one-third of the spread to refresh mid-event.
T+30 minutes (Refresh):
- Refill schmears, rotate bagels so the top always looks bountiful.
- Wipe surfaces, replace tongs as needed.
Wrap-up:
- Pack leftovers in original boxes. Bagels freeze well; toast from frozen for a perfect second act.
- Jot notes for next time: counts, favorites, any special requests.
With the right timing and our labeled, ready-to-serve boxes, you’ll glide from setup to compliments without breaking a sweat.
