If you're planning any type of special occasion or event, figuring out what to serve your guests is most likely one of your top priorities. While you can stick to a traditional lunch or dinner menu, consider getting creative with breakfast ideas instead. 

Breakfast is appropriate for any type of event, from casual gatherings to the fanciest soirees, depending on what type of ingredients you use in the dishes. Treats guests to a full-course breakfast menu at kids' and adults' birthday parties, family and corporate holiday celebrations, anniversary and graduation events, bridal and baby showers, and even wedding receptions. 

Depending on the size of your guest list and your party-planning budget, you can either make the breakfast dishes yourself or have them catered by a local restaurant. When narrowing down the list of possible eateries, go with one that has experience catering events if possible.

The following are a few breakfast ideas to consider for your next special event.

1. Pancake and Waffle Bar 

Fresh, made-to-order pancakes and waffles are sure to please guests of all ages, and are easy to prepare and serve. Start by placing bowls of pancake and waffle mixes on a long, buffet-style tables, and set up griddles and irons so that guests can make their own meals. As another option, serve premade pancakes and waffles in warming trays. 

Provide plenty of both gourmet and traditional toppings so that party-goers can customize their pancakes and waffles. Ideas include fresh berries, peaches and apple slices, butter, chocolate chips and whipped cream. 

Round out the breakfast with side items such as bacon, sausage, hashbrowns and fresh fruit. If you have vegetarians in the crowd, include a few soy-based meat options as well. You can't go wrong with shrimp and grits, which is ideal for more elegant gatherings. 

2. Quiche 

Quiche is another breakfast dish that is easy to customize to please a crowd, and is perfect for even the most elegant of parties. Guest can enjoy slices of quiche and they mix and mingle with each other, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings with a more relaxed feel. 

Traditional quiche combinations include ham, sausage or bacon and cheese such as Swiss or cheddar, sauteed mushrooms and Swiss, and a vegetarian combination made of any type of cheese, onions, green peppers and tomatoes. 

Complete the meal with typical breakfast side items such as hashbrowns, oatmeal, and even pancakes or waffles. You can also serve fresh garden salads with the quiche if you want the meal to have a more lunch or dinner feel. 

For more ideas, reach out to a local restaurant, such as Down The Hatch Maui.