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Patti Roth Rogers
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How to budget for your event

It's a question we're asked often: How much should I spend on catering?

Not surprisingly, the answer is, it depends. Will the meal be a buffet or seated and served? Does the reception have passed hors d'oeuvres, buffet appetizers or a combination of both?

Experience has taught us that the most enjoyable catering experiences fall into various price ranges:
  • Hors d'ouevres only (passed, buffet or both) typically cost between $14 and $25 a person

  • Food stations at events (such as a carving station or special dish preparation), along with hors d'oeuvres, run $25 to $60 per guest

  • Meals (seated/served or buffet-style) usually range from $35 to $70 per person
The above pricing reflects food costs only. Most venues also require the rental of equipment - from specialized equipment to tables and chairs to eating utensils. Alcohol, decorations, audio/visual equipment and special personnel (security and parking valet) also add to the cost of the event.

In any event, Tastes by Patti will work with you to calculate the most cost-effective way to manage your catering, as well as advise you on other costs. If you're on a fixed budget, we'll take that into account - and with every event, we work to make sure you're not surprised by the final bill.

Tastes by Patti believes there's more than one way to budget for catering. Contact us to discuss what's optimal for your event.
Patti's ossobucco was heavenly.
And she made the ravioli right
there in our kitchen - it was
perfect. People at the table
were in awe.

Elizabeth Martin
Hosted interactive dinner
cooked by Patti
© 2006 Tastes by Patti.