🎉 Event Planning Tools
Catering Cost Calculator
Estimate catering cost and charge by guest count, food type, and drink package.
Catering details
Fill in the details and click calculate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does catering cost per person?
Passed appetizers: $15–25/head. Buffet: $25–45. Plated dinner: $40–90. Stations: $35–60. Add bar service, staffing, rentals, and 18–24% service charge to compare quotes honestly.
What is a catering service charge and is it a tip?
The 18–24% service charge covers operational staffing costs and usually is not a gratuity to servers. Ask each caterer directly — it changes your real per-head math.
Buffet vs plated — which is actually cheaper?
Buffets save service labor but consume 10–20% more food; plated controls portions but needs more staff. For 100+ guests the totals often converge — get both quotes.
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