Event Guest Food Estimator
Precise catering calculations for flawless event planning
Pro Tip: Always account for 10-15% extra guests to accommodate last-minute additions.
Dietary Requirements
Beverage Options
Catering Estimation Results
Food Quantities
Beverage Estimates
Event Catering Planning Guide
Our Event Guest Food Estimator helps you plan the perfect catering quantities for any occasion, reducing waste while ensuring all guests are well-fed.
Key Catering Considerations
Accurate food estimation depends on multiple factors that our calculator takes into account:
Factors Affecting Food Quantities:
- Event Type: Weddings typically require more food than corporate events
- Duration: Longer events need more snacks and refreshments
- Meal Service: Plated meals vs. buffet vs. cocktail reception
- Guest Demographics: Age groups and cultural backgrounds
- Time of Day: Evening events typically require more substantial food
Event Catering FAQs
How many appetizers per person should I plan for?
For cocktail hours: 6-8 pieces per person for 1.5 hours. For dinner replacement: 12-15 pieces. Our calculator adjusts based on your event type and duration.
What percentage of guests typically have dietary restrictions?
Our default values reflect industry averages: 15% vegetarian, 5% vegan, 10% gluten-free. Adjust these based on your specific guest list knowledge.
How many drinks should I plan per guest?
Typically 2 drinks for the first hour and 1 drink per additional hour for alcoholic beverages. Non-alcoholic beverages average 3-4 per person for a 3-hour event.
Should I order extra food?
We automatically include a 10% buffer in our calculations to account for variations in appetite and last-minute guests.
How does event timing affect food quantities?
Our calculator adjusts portions based on duration - mid-day events typically require lighter fare, while evening events warrant more substantial meals.