Whether it’s a birthday party, baby shower or wedding, planning events can be a challenge.

One of the most important things to consider is which food to serve. Catering to everyone’s dietary preferences might seem daunting but, offering no animal-based food products can be delicious and will extend the celebration for animals as well.

Sadly, there's a stigma attached to vegan food. When guests hear "vegan," "animal-friendly" or "meatless," they might think of tasteless, boring salads, bland vegetables and nothing else! But this is not true. Vegan meals can be very delicious!

Whether it’s finger food, a buffet, or a sitdown meal, planning in advance is key.

It might help to collect your friends’ and family’s ideas and suggestions on which foods they enjoy - then you can make the vegan equivalent.

There is almost no dish, food or snack that doesn’t come in the vegan variety. But it does take a little creativity in creating the flavor and textures.

For simple, mouth-watering appetizers, zucchini rolls, caramelized onion focaccia, polenta bites with marinated cherry tomatoes and basil, or veggie couscous with lemon zest flavoring are great options.   

For main dishes, a plant-based alternative of a popular meat dish can be a big hit. Creamy pasta made with almond milk, a veggie lasagna, or barbequed plant-based fillets with mushroom or pepper sauce can look, and taste, like their animal-derived counterparts. The key is to make sure the ingredients are as fresh as possible.

Desserts are some of the easiest things you can make – yes, even without using eggs, butter or milk!  Your guests wouldn’t know the difference as easily between cow’s milk or almond milk in your thick, fudgy chocolate cake. The opportunities are endless!

Some alcoholic beverages, soft drinks and juices are made using animal products. The substances used are often from slaughtered animals, such as gelatin, fish bladders and blood, and are commonly found in more drinks than one would think. Some brands clearly label their drinks, but not all do. Usually, spirits are most likely to be vegan-friendly and so are many beers and wines, but it’s worth asking and also checking online which are vegan-friendly and which ones aren’t.

At the end of the day, what we remember about celebrations has very little to do with the food, however, tasty food can make a lasting impression! It’s about spending time with family and friends, and enjoying being together, and what better way than doing that with animal cruelty-free celebrations.

For delicious plant-based recipes, check out our recipes section. Or find more great suggestions which are suitable for any occasion:

• 10 Vegan desserts that even non-vegans will love
• Vegan recipes so good, you'll forget about meat and cheese
• 30 Lazy Vegan Recipes – Easy-peasy eats