When planning any type of event, one of the biggest doubts that most organizers have is concerned the number of food. As a rule, we tend to get more than needed thinking that more is better than less. While such logic can be explained, it is advised to get the exact amount of food and number of dishes required. Below you can find several useful tips from Richmond Hill catering experts.
Good Preparation is Extremely Important
First of all, to evaluate the volume of food needed for an event you have to know the number of guests attending. However, according to professionals from Markham catering services, you should also keep in mind that the length of the event also has great impact. Furthermore, remember that type of the event you are planning and the type of food you are going to serve will also change the food plan.
In the planning process you need to orientate yourself onto the average person, because while some will eat less, others will compensate by eating more. Keep in mind that the most popular food and beverages will disappear faster. So order more of such selections.
Specific Tips for Every Type of Food and Drinks
Appetizers
If you are having a cocktail party or a dinner without the main course, then you need to serve 10 to 15 different kinds of appetizers per person. In case of a buffet catering, Markham catering services advise rounding everything up, because people eat more during buffets.
If appetizers are used as pre-dinner then 3 to 5 pieces per person is absolutely enough.
For a mid-day course you will need 1 to 3 pieces per person.
Beverages
As a rule you will need to plan about 3 beverages per one person, keeping in mind that coffee drinkers consume one cup every 1.3 hours on average. Of course the rule will be different for cocktail parties.
Breakfast
For breakfast you will need at least 2 beverages on average, one of them being water another one coffee, tea, or juice. The main entrée should be only one, but coming with at least two sides. Richmond Hill catering experts advise serving fruits, because they are always great for breakfasts. In case of only pastries served, plan at least 2 pieces per person.
Lunch
Opening dishes should be served at least 2 per person and the main entrée with 2 – 3 sides. Remember to offer different drinks and light sandwiches (1-2 per person).
Dinner
According to the Richmond Hill catering experts you will need 3 – 5 hors d’oeuvres per one person. The main course should also come with 2 – 3 different sides. Remember to put small bread, salad, and soup plates for everyone.
Desserts
1 – 3 different kinds of deserts is definitely enough for a party. You can opt for cakes, pastries, creamy or fruit desserts. Remember that desserts are frequently consumed with tea and coffee, so include this into your menu.
