Party Planning Helpful Hints

If you need some help deciding how much food to order for a party, please use some of the tools and suggestions below to ensure a successful event.

Appetizers to serve:

8 to 10 guests: serve 3 types of appetizers

12 to 16 guests: serve 4 or 5 types of appetizers

18 to 30 guests: serve 6 types of appetizers (include a minimum of 1 hot offering)

32 to 46 guests: serve 7 types of appetizers (include a minimum of 1 hot offering)

46+ guests: serve 8 types (include a minimum of 2 hot offerings)

Coversions:

16 tbsp = 1 cup

16 oz = 1 pound

32 oz = 1 quart

Conversion to Deli Style:

1 pint = 1 pound, Serves 2-3

1 quart = 2 pounds, Serves 4-6

1/2 gallon = 4 pounds, Serves 10-12

1 gallon = 8 pounds, Serves 20-25

Other Helpful Hints:

4 appetizer pieces per person is a safe guideline for a host to follow.

Fresh veggies can be prepared the day before your party. Store in storage bag or container and add several ice cubes to keep veggies crisp until serving.

When it comes to beverages, adjust amounts according to the type of gathering and the drinking habits of your guests. Always remember to provide non-alcoholic beverages.

Keep a bucket of ice water handy to chill wine before serving.

To prevent misplacing of beverages, provide your guests with wine charms and/or personalized beverage holders.

Be prepared, it's always better to have too much food. (You can always save the leftovers or give doggie-bags to your guests as they leave.)

Serve a variety of hot and cold appetizers if a sit down meal does not follow.

If you have any questions, feel free to send me an email. I love to give ideas/suggestions for party themes or food selections (even if I'm not catering the event).  I understand that some of us feel empowered when we take on planning and catering our own events (some of us learn the lessons the hard way and place an order with a caterer for future events).