Feel like you’re scrambling to plan a Mother’s Day that’s special and memorable for all? Don’t stress, we have just the answer. This Mother’s Day, skip going out for an overpriced meal on this busy day, and instead host a fabulous champagne brunch at home, the park, or another special location. Here’s everything you’ll need to impress mom and your guests.

Mother’s Day: The Food

Read More…

If we could pick a favorite event venue, it would have to be Independence Grove. Ok, we’ll admit it – we’re a bit biased!

Events at Independence Grove: Quick Facts

Events at Independence Grove is the exclusive caterer and event management partner of Independence Grove Forest Preserve, and is a Catering by Michaels company. The venue opened in March of 2001, and was specifically designed with a premium visitor experience in mind. It is open year-round to host various events and celebrations.

Independence Grove is located in Libertyville, Illinois in a 1,100-acre nature preserve and recreation area. People know it for its pristine beauty and secluded setting. It’s been described as a Midwestern one-of-a-kind treasure because of its natural calmness, beautiful grassland and stunning lake views. Because of this, hosting an event at Independence Grove will provide a truly unique and memorable backdrop for any type of wedding, social or corporate event.

Independence Grove

There are three main event categories we normally get bookings for at Independence Grove.

Read More…

Due to the nature of our business, we find ourselves involved in a number of spectacular events each year. As 2016 winds down, we’ve taken a step back to look at all the amazing special events we were privileged to be a part of and wanted to share a few of our favorites.

Here are our top 10 events on 2016:

1.  Modern Luxury Magazine Promotional Event at Artifact Events
   

   Working alongside an incredible vendor team, we put together an amazing promotional event for Modern Luxury Magazine at one of our favorite event spaces – Artifact Events. Here are some of the food items we served that are making us hungry just thinking about them:

SWEET PEA PANNA COTTA

Shrimp, green machine sautée, bacon cube, lemon aïoli,
pain de tuille served in a disposable oval dish.

MINIATURE SPICY TUNA MAKI PUSH-POPS

Layers of ahi tuna, cucumber and spicy Japanese aioli
garnished with red tobikko.

DUCK FAT FRIED CHICKEN STATION

Presented in a smoke infused glass dome.

Duck fat fried chicken drizzled with smoky sriracha sauce
and served over house made cheddar bacon popcorn.

Event Rentals: Tablescapes | Decor: Kehoe Designs | Venue: Artifact Events

Read More…

Thanks to the fast-approaching holiday season, many of you are preparing to entertain friends and family. Although it might seem like quite a production, preparing for the holidays doesn’t have to be extravagant. Even the simplest of decorations can be elegant when executed well.

Don’t let yourself get too stressed out and overwhelmed by the thought of welcoming guests into your home, and all the preparation that goes into entertaining them. Try to enjoy this special time of year with those closest to you.

Here are some simple tips that will help you entertain during the holidays with style.

Party Preparation

The most important factors when planning your party are these three critical elements:

• Food (the most critical, of course!)
• Drinks
• Conversation

Read More…

Now that Mother’s Day is a happy memory for 2016, it’s time to focus on the other most important person in your life – dad. After all he’s done to help shape you into the amazing person you’ve become, it’s time to celebrate him – and spoil him a little!

As everyone knows, the way to dad’s heart is through his stomach. Show him you care with a menu that reflects his manly palette.

Here’s the special menu Catering by Michaels will be serving up this Father’s Day!

Sour Cherry Old Fashioned
Whiskey, cherry liqueur, cherry syrup, sour cherry garnish.

Chipotle BBQ Shrimp Skewers wrapped in Bacon

Tenderloin Sliders
Seared tenderloin, truffle aïoli, caramelized onions, brioche bun.

Beer & Cheddar Macaroni and Cheese
Cavatappi noodles, beer & cheddar cheese sauce, panko bread crumbs, parmesan cheese.

Candy Bar Parfaits
Chocolate cremeux, salted peanut caramel, fresh whipped cream, chocolate shavings.

Prepare to be refreshed. Our sour cherry old fashioned is a fresh, summery twist on an old favorite. Dad will love it, and we’re pretty sure you’ll enjoy it, too. If only all cocktails had this much attention to detail.

Read More…