Catering Price Per Person

Catering Price Per Person

Your complete guide to understanding event catering costs

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Understanding Per-Person Pricing

Per-person pricing is the most common way caterers quote events. This pricing model makes it easy to scale your budget based on guest count.

What Affects Per-Person Cost

Menu complexity is the biggest factor. Simple menus with fewer choices cost less than elaborate spreads. Service style matters too, self-service costs less than plated dinners.

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Calculating Your Total Budget

Start with your expected guest count and multiply by the per-person rate. Then add potential extras: drinks if not included, extended hours, and any delivery fees not covered.

Budget for 10-15% more guests than confirmed. RSVPs often undercount actual attendance, and running out of food is worse than having leftovers.

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