Pre-Event Preparation and Setup
Conduct a Pre-Event Area Walkthrough
Pre-event preparation and setup involve conducting a walkthrough. A walkthrough is a viewing or physical tour of a given site or facility. A service professional team conducts a walkthrough prior to an event. The cocktail captain performs a walkthrough to determine the flow from BOH to FOH and the location of passing stations and/or temporary bars.
Best Practices for Conducting a Pre-Event Area Walkthrough
1.Before the Walkthrough
Bring all necessary documentation (e.g., BEOs, floor plans).
2.During the Walkthrough
Walk through the relevant area, visualizing the event flow (through different service types, service areas, and the transitions between them). In this, identify:
The location of the BOH and FOH facilities and equipment
The location of BOH and FOH entry points and exit points
Potential location(s) for passing stations and/or temporary bars (if applicable)
In finalizing the location of the passing stations and temporary bars (if applicable), ensure
All safety regulations and protocols are in place
There is clear access to pathways, walkways, and stairways
There are clear paths between the BOH, FOH, and other areas
There is clear access to BOH and FOH facilities and equipment for the culinary team and the service professional team
The passing stations are accessible to the service professional team but not to guests
The bar is accessible to guests (if applicable)
The passing station and bar setup has designated areas for inventory, equipment, and sanitation
If necessary, communicate with relevant stakeholders (as a bar captain would).
3.After the Walkthrough
After completing the walkthrough, update any necessary documentation (if applicable) and use the rental list, beverage inventory sheet, and/or menu to begin to review, verify, and organize equipment and inventory.