Brunch Planner Calculator
Host the perfect mid-morning gathering while staying within your budget
Hosting Tip: The best brunches balance delicious food, good company, and relaxed atmosphere. Focus on 2-3 standout dishes rather than an overwhelming spread.
Pro Tip: Prep as much as possible the night before to minimize morning stress. Many brunch dishes taste better after flavors meld overnight.
Brunch Essentials
Total: $48.00
Total: $24.00
Total: $32.00
Total: $16.00
Total: $15.00
Additional Brunch Items
Brunch Budget Summary
Main Dishes:
Sides:
Drinks:
Desserts:
Tableware:
Additional Items:
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Total Brunch Cost: $0.00
Cost per Guest: $0.00
Brunch Planning Tips:
- Prepare make-ahead dishes like stratas or baked french toast
- Set up a self-serve drink station to minimize hosting duties
- Use tiered stands for elegant yet space-saving food presentation
Brunch Planning Guide by Guest Count
Intimate (4-8 guests)
- Focus on 2-3 quality main dishes
- Individual plating works well for smaller groups
- Average cost: $10-$15 per person
- Perfect for trying more elaborate recipes
Medium (8-15 guests)
- Offer 3-4 main dish options
- Buffet or family-style serving recommended
- Average cost: $8-$12 per person
- Balance homemade and store-bought items
Large (15-30 guests)
- 4+ main dishes with variety
- Definitely buffet or food station setup
- Average cost: $6-$10 per person
- Consider potluck or partial catering
"Hosts who plan their brunch menu 1 week in advance report 40% less stress and 25% lower costs from better shopping decisions."
Essential Brunch Menu Components
Main Dishes
Choose a mix of sweet and savory options. Classic choices include: eggs benedict, quiche, frittata, pancakes/waffles, french toast casserole, breakfast strata, or smoked salmon platter. Plan 1 main per 6 guests plus one extra for variety.
Budget Tip: Egg-based dishes are economical crowd-pleasers. Baked dishes often feed more people with less effort.
Sides
Balance your mains with fresh and cooked sides: seasonal fruit salad, roasted potatoes, breakfast meats, yogurt parfaits, avocado toast, or assorted pastries. Include at least one vegetarian option.
Budget Tip: In-season fruits are more affordable. Buy whole fruits and cut yourself rather than pre-cut.
Drinks
Offer coffee (regular and decaf), tea, juice (orange and grapefruit are classics), and water as basics. For alcoholic options: mimosas, bloody marys, or bellinis are brunch staples. Set up a self-serve drink station.
Budget Tip: Buy large juice containers rather than individual servings. Make a signature cocktail instead of full bar.
Desserts
While not mandatory, sweet endings elevate brunch: mini pastries, fruit tarts, coffee cake, or donuts. Keep portions small since guests will already be full from main dishes.
Budget Tip: Bake one large dessert (like a coffee cake) rather than multiple small items.
Hosting Tip: Prepare 75% of your menu the night before so you can enjoy your guests rather than being stuck in the kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time should I schedule my brunch?
The classic brunch window is 10am to 2pm, with 11am being the most popular start time. This allows guests to sleep in but still have their afternoon free. For more casual gatherings, a "brunch-able" window of 9am-12pm works well.
How much food should I prepare per person?
Plan for about 1-1.25 pounds of food total per person (including drinks). For mains, estimate 1-2 portions per guest across all options. People tend to eat less at brunch than dinner parties, but will sample more variety.
Should I serve alcohol at my brunch?
Alcohol is common but not mandatory. If serving, offer 1-2 signature cocktails (like mimosas) rather than a full bar. Always provide plenty of non-alcoholic options and water. For daytime events, many guests will prefer light or no alcohol.
How can I accommodate dietary restrictions?
Ask guests about restrictions when they RSVP. Include at least one vegan/vegetarian main and gluten-free option. Label dishes clearly with ingredients. Consider a "build your own" station (like omelets or yogurt parfaits) to accommodate various needs.
What's the best way to set up a brunch buffet?
Arrange in logical order: plates first, then mains, sides, toppings, utensils, and napkins last. Keep drinks on a separate table. Place items that spill easily (like syrup) near the end. Use risers or tiered stands to maximize space and visibility.