Wedding Reception Food Calculator
Wedding receptions are once-in-a-lifetime events where food plays a starring role. Whether you're planning an elegant sit-down dinner or a casual cocktail reception, getting quantities right ensures your special day goes smoothly.
Quick Estimates for 100 Guests
Here's what you'll need if serving these foods together at your wedding reception:
Estimated total cost: $1255 - $2825
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Sliders
210 sliders
Est. $315-$630
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Shrimp
420 shrimp
Est. $168-$336
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Sandwiches
88 sandwiches
Est. $352-$704
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Salad Servings
105 cups
Est. $105-$315
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Cheese Tray Servings
140 oz
Est. $70-$210
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Cake Slices
70 slices
Est. $140-$350
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Cupcakes
70 cupcakes
Est. $105-$280
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Planning Timeline
1
3-6 months before: Book caterer, plan menu, tastings
2
1 month before: Finalize menu and guest count estimate
3
2 weeks before: Final headcount to caterer
4
1 week before: Confirm all details, review timeline
5
Day before: Final walkthrough with venue and caterer
6
Wedding day: Trust your caterer, enjoy your day!
💡 Pro Tips
- • Caterers typically estimate 5-10% of RSVPs won't show up
- • Cocktail hour appetizers: plan 6-8 pieces per person for a 1-hour cocktail hour
- • Cupcakes or dessert bars are increasingly popular alternatives to traditional cake
Wedding Reception Planning Tips
- Work with caterers for exact counts 2 weeks ahead
- Plan for 10-15% extra servings
- Consider dietary restrictions and label all dishes
- Have kids' meal options if children are attending
- Plan cocktail hour food to tide guests over until dinner
- Coordinate cake cutting timing with photographer
Food Safety Resources:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much food per person for a wedding reception?
For a sit-down dinner: plan for 1 appetizer course, 5-6 oz protein, 1 cup of sides (total), salad, bread, and cake. For cocktail-style: 10-12 appetizer pieces per person plus cake.
How much wedding cake do I need?
Plan for one slice per guest. Most couples order 10-15% extra for display. A 3-tier cake typically serves 100-150. Consider having a smaller display cake with sheet cakes for serving.
How many appetizers for wedding cocktail hour?
For a 1-hour cocktail hour before dinner, plan 6-8 appetizer pieces per person. If cocktails replace dinner entirely, plan for 12-15 pieces per person over 2-3 hours.
Recommended Foods for Wedding Reception
Helpful Planning Guides
See a Worked Plan for This Event
Wedding Cocktail Hour
Wedding Cocktail Hour for 60
Elegant appetizer-heavy service with strict timing and presentation constraints.