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The banquet is one of the most important items in the wedding budget. Calculating food quantities is challenging but not impossible. Smart decisions help you spend wisely, avoiding excess or shortage.
Start with Your Budget
Take your total food budget and divide by the number of guests. For example, if you have a COP 12,000,000 budget ($3,000 USD) for 50 guests, you have COP 240,000 ($60 USD) per person for food. Confirm these numbers with your caterer — they know the industry standards best.
General Food Quantity Guidelines
Appetizers (Cocktail Hour)
6-8 bites per person if a full meal follows. 10-12 bites per person if appetizers are the main food (drunch format). Mix of hot and cold options. Half vegetarian, half with protein.
Main Course
Plated dinner: 180-220g (6-8 oz) of protein per person. Buffet: 250-300g (9-10 oz) of protein per person (guests take more at buffets). 150-200g (5-7 oz) of starches and vegetables per person. Factor in 10-15% extra for buffets.
Dessert
One slice of wedding cake per guest (standard). Some guests skip dessert, others take more. Plan for 80% of guests taking dessert if other sweets are available.
Drinks
2-3 drinks per person for the first hour, then 1 per hour after. One bottle of wine per 2 guests. Beer: 2-3 bottles per person. Non-alcoholic drinks: 2-3 per person. Ice: 500g (1 lb) per person.
How Style and Timing Affect Quantities
Ceremony Time
Morning/brunch: lighter fare, less alcohol. Afternoon: medium portions, moderate alcohol. Evening: full meal, more alcohol.
Service Style
Plated: controlled portions, less waste. Buffet: 15-20% more food needed. Stations: similar to buffet. Family-style: generous but controlled.
Know Your Guests
More children = smaller portions. More elderly guests = lighter, smaller portions. More young adults = heartier appetites, more drinks. Account for dietary restrictions — ask on the RSVP.
Pro Tips
Consult a professional caterer — they have experience with quantities and portions. Do a menu tasting before finalizing quantities. Have extra food for vendors (photographer, band, etc.). Consider a midnight snack (arepas, mini burgers) for late-night dancing guests. Always have vegetarian and gluten-free options available.
