Post # 1
Member
235 posts
Helper bee
Hello Bees! I am researching rental costs and I realized that I have no idea how many plates/flatware settings/glasses I should get. I am planning a buffet BBQ style meal, with three different main choices and four side options. I am estimating 100 people attending, and it will be a fairly casual affair. The caterer may provide canned sodas, so I think glasses would only be necessary for the water on the tables, and the bar. Any guidance at all would be really really appreciated!!
Post # 2
Member
44 posts
Newbee
We had several buffet stations for 175 guests. The caterer suggested putting the plates by the buffet stations, but the silverware was put at each place setting. That way people see the silverware as “theirs” and don’t use new silverware each time. We had water glasses on the table, filled, and an iced tea and coffee station that was used by the servers. The bar provided the bar glasses, other than the wine glasses that we rented. I used the caterers recommended numbers of all plates, glassware, etc. Since your guest list is about 60% of what mine was, you can get an idea by taking 60% of my numbers:
Plates on buffet stations: 500 (times 60% = 300)
Plates for dessert station: 175 (times 60% = 105)
Preset forks, knives (no spoons): 200 to allow for a few extras (times 60% etc)
Dessert station forks: 175
Preset Water & Iced tea glasses: 275
Wine glasses: 150
Coffee mugs: 100
We didnt run out of anything, so the catered was spot on.
Post # 3
Member
235 posts
Helper bee
srancho : Thank you so much for the excellent information!! That is a really good idea about putting the flatware at each setting, I was worried about people over using since it was a buffet setup! I so appreciate your response!
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