The beginning of 2020 started so promising. We had more weddings scheduled than ever before, our calendar was full for weekday events, and the area we covered was expanding. Then March hit, and the world as we knew it was over in the catering world.
If we could describe our 2020 in one word it would be: pivot.
As soon as we felt like we had a grasp on a new direction, we would have to pivot. As soon as new recommendations were out for caterers, they would change again, and we would have to pivot our plans. We were working with frustrated and sad brides everyday and working with them to pivot their plans. There was constantly something we were scheduling, then rescheduling, then rescheduling again. It forced us to be creative and think outside the box to keep our dreams and this business alive.
But 2020 wasn't all bad! In fact, more than ever before we were reminded by how amazing our community is! How you always stick up for the underdog and support local businesses. In April we began doing weekly and biweekly Take Home Meals and sold out several times throughout the year thanks to you showing up to support us. Our Holiday meals were the biggest and best we've ever had, with so many first time customers getting to try Henn House Barbeque! We know this is because you continue to share with your friends, family, and neighbors.
The year 2020 also brought more awards and accolades for Henn House Barbeque! For the second year in a row we were named Best of Knox County Catering and BBQ for 2020. This summer we were also awarded the Illinois Pork Producers Association's Pulled Pork Madness champion which is a state wide, community voted award. We are so thankful for your support in voting for and sharing with others.
As we begin 2021 we are so excited to get back to a regular schedule. We already have more than double the weddings booked for this year than we did last year. Events that were canceled from last year are already in full swing, and we are adding to our calendar every day. With new goals, dreams, and direction we are sure that this year will be the best yet!
As with any small, family run, community focused company: every time you book us for an event, purchase something off the website, or share our facebook posts we do a happy dance. This last year taught us the strength of the people when we work together. Thank you for sticking with us the past year, we look forward to many many more years of catering Henn House Barbeque to your weddings, parties, and events!
