Whether you're organizing a conference or simply making sure the break areas in your venue are well stocked, you need to consider your coffee supplies. Many people rely on coffee to see them through the day. Go beyond nondairy creamer and artificial sweeteners to impress your guests and make a lasting positive impression for very little extra effort.

Finding the Right Creamer

Many people prefer fresh milk and cream, so investing in refrigeration near your coffee station can pay off in terms of customer and guest satisfaction. If you do go down this road, remember to provide a milk substitute, such as soy, almond or coconut milk, for the dairy intolerant and those with specific dietary requirements.

If refrigeration is not practical for your space, another option is to provide a kosher nondairy creamer. These coffee supplies meet the needs of the widest range of customers. If you want to expand your range, try offering some flavor varieties. Examples of flavored creamers include French vanilla creamer and Baileys creamer, both of which add flavor, depth and a sense of occasion to an everyday coffee break.

All Sweeteners Are Not the Same

Providing the best sugar available is just the first step. However, many people avoid sugar for one reason or another, and sugar substitutes are necessary if you want to meet their needs.

Those who avoid sugar because it's processed are likely to prefer natural sweeteners such as honey, agave nectar or maple syrup. However, someone trying to watch his or her weight or lower their carbohydrate intake is likely to want either low-calorie natural sugar substitutes or reliable artificial sweeteners.

If you have the resources, purchase a selection of sugar substitutes and keep track of which sweeteners your customers prefer over time. When all else fails, invest in a well-known brand.

Presentation Is Important

It may seem like a minor point, but the cup you drink from can make a big difference in how much you enjoy your coffee. Some dispensers have special cups that come with the machines, so there's not a lot to be done other than keeping them well stocked. However, if your coffee station is less regimented, or if you are serving coffee during a meeting break, consider using porcelain cups to make the coffee moment feel more special for your guests. If you need to use disposables, research recycled paper cups. Newer brands offer extremely high quality, and the halo effect of being environmentally conscious can add to your guests' enjoyment.

Make sure you have plenty of spoons or stirrers available. Opt for more formal utensils and avoid single-use plastic utensils if possible to keep in line with your venue’s refined image. Alternatives to metal crockery, which is best if you have dishwasher facilities, include cellulose utensils and coffee supplies made from recycled materials.

Clean-Up Considerations

One last thing to consider is what your guests should do with their spoons, sweetener packets and other paraphernalia while they drink their coffee and where their cups should go afterward. Clear signage, clean surfaces and plenty of available trash cans for your disposable coffee supplies allow guests to clean up after themselves or corral used items for staff members to collect later.

A cup of coffee seems like the simplest thing in the world, but making each cup a good experience for your guest takes planning and a variety of coffee supplies. By making sure you have the right creamer selection and a choice of natural and artificial sweeteners, you can cater to their tastes and increase their appreciation for your venue.