How to Organize a Carry-In Lunch at Work

Pot Lucks and Carry In Meals are fun because everyone brings something different to eat and there are a lot of good foods to try. Use these tips to make your next Pot Luck or Carry In at work more enjoyable.

Planning the pot luck or carry in lunch can be as simple as picking a date and making up a sign up sheet. Have a category for Appetizers, Salads, Vegetables, Main Dishes, Breads and Desserts. A Miscellaneous category can cover things like ice, paper products, disposable silverware, drinks and condiments. Those who don't like to cook will be glad to pick up the miscellaneous items. Post the list where everyone will see it and keep a pen nearby to make sign ups for the pot luck or carry in easy.

Before the Pot Luck or Carry In day arrives, clear out the work fridge and freezer. Give everyone notice that if they have unmarked items lurking in the fridge, they'll be thrown away.

Arrange tables for the food buffet and seating as soon as it is convenient. Often in a work atmosphere, this cannot be done until the last minute. Plan ahead so you'll know what you're going to do when it's time. Enlist help with moving furniture.

The most important consideration of any carry in meal or pot luck is the placement of the food buffet. It needs to be organized and TWO-SIDED. A buffet that is only accessible from one side is simply too slow-moving to be convenient. The first people through the line are ready for seconds and dessert before everyone has gone through the buffet once. Whatever you do, set up the food to be accessed from both sides of the table.

Put the plates, napkins and silverware at the beginning end of the buffet and then organize the food in groups from there. Keep salads together, veggies together, and so on. If you can put drinks and ice on a separate table and desserts in another location, that eases traffic flow as well. Make sure all the dishes of the pot luck or carry in have a serving spoon and the covers are off when the buffet line starts. Put covers and extra containers under the table to get them out of the way. Meat should be sliced and ready to serve. Pies and cakes can have a few pieces cut to start with.

Once everyone starts eating, the luncheon pot luck or carry in pretty much takes care of itself. Everyone will enjoy eating together, exchanging recipes and having a break from the normal work routine. Scheduling a pot luck or carry in meal at work from time to time is a good moral booster. Use these tips to keep your pot luck or carry in organized and running smoothly and you'll want to do it more often.