Wedding Cocktail Hour for 50 People
Elegant appetizers for the pre-dinner cocktail hour. Keep guests satisfied with a mix of proteins and finger foods while photos are taken.
Perfect for: Wedding✓ Quick Answer
For 50 people, you'll need:
Estimated cost: $265 - $634
Detailed Breakdown
How to Execute This Combo Smoothly
This combo is balanced around appetizer, appetizer, appetizer, beverage, so guests can build full plates without over-consuming one item. For 50 guests, start prep same day + 12 hours ahead before service and stage food in 2 waves to keep quality high throughout the event.
- Wave 1: serve 45-50% of total quantities at start time.
- Wave 2: refresh with 30-35% at peak attendance.
- Wave 3: hold final 15-20% for late guests and second servings.
- Keep each item labeled by role so guests build balanced plates faster.
Calculate for Different Group Sizes
Wedding Cocktail Hour Tips
- Plan for 6-8 appetizer pieces per person for 1-hour cocktails
- Passed appetizers feel more elegant than stationary only
- Keep shrimp on ice throughout the hour
- Have non-alcoholic drink options available
- Coordinate with caterer on timing before dinner
Food Safety Resources:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much food for wedding cocktail hour before dinner?
What's the ideal mix of passed vs. stationary appetizers?
Editorial Process and Sources
Last reviewed: February 19, 2026
Publisher: FeedMyGuests Editorial Team · Contact: contact@feedmyguests.com
This combo page is generated from item-level calculator data for each component food, then reviewed for formula consistency, role balance, and link integrity before publication.
Reference Sources
- USDA FoodData Central Retrieved: February 19, 2026
- FDA Food Safety Guidance Retrieved: February 19, 2026
- USDA FSIS Safe Food Handling Retrieved: February 19, 2026