In the process of execution and planning a fundraiser dinner event. But when Hanna was talking about creativity in the menu, I had an idea that I thought was pretty great! Our Menu was going to be pretty standard with two meat options and a veg option. But nothing about it was particularly "wow". This idea hit me at about 10pm at night and I was so excited, I almost called my caterer forgetting what time it was!

I grew up in a military household, and my dad would always bring home extra MRE's. (Meals Ready to Eat- Essentially prepackaged and premade food that our military personnel live off of while on deployment. Think adult lunchables. ) They are not known for being particularly tasty, but theres always talk between service members of which ones were their favorites, tricks to make them tastier, and how they would go around trying to snag extra mini tabasco bottles from other service members meals. Theres a lot of nostalgic affection around MRE's within the military community, as much as some may not like to admit it. It brings back memories of camaraderie and brotherhood within a unit while out in the field on deployment.

Given the theme of the event being extremely military tradition forward, I thought, why not have fun with the menu by creating menu items inspired by these MRE's. I am working with my caterer to create "elevated" MRE's that are guaranteed to be tastier than the originals. What is great about using that as my inspo is one; the food is pretty basic, and not out of the ordinary for the caterer to create. Two; because of that, its not going to change the price of my catering. Right now were looking at options like Tuscan Beef, Lentil Stew, and BBQ chicken. (all names of real MRE meals by the way!)

Appart from the meals, still doing research on ideas for appetizers and desserts that go along with the theme!

Will keep you updated as this event is close to a year out still! But I appreciate the creative spark you gave me Hanna!

What do y'all think?

Sonja Cash

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