How Much Wedding Catering Do You Really Need?

Planning your wedding menu is exciting but also a bit overwhelming. One of the first questions couples ask is: how much food and drink do we actually need? At The Wells Event Catering, we’ve catered weddings of all shapes and sizes across Kent and Sussex and we’re here to help you get it right - no waste, no stress, no hungry guests.

Here’s how to figure it all out.

1. Start With Your Guest Count

It sounds obvious, but guest numbers are the foundation for everything. Remember to include:

• Yourselves and your wedding party

• Children (usually half portions)

• Suppliers who may need feeding (photographers, band etc.)

Be sure to confirm final numbers around 2–3 weeks before the big day.

2. Think in Terms of Meal Moments

Every wedding is different, but here are the main catering moments to consider:

Welcome Drinks & Canapés

• Canapés: We recommend a minimum of 5 per guest to keep everyone going through photos, mingling and speeches. If you’re not having a starter, canapés become even more important to help keep hunger at bay.

• Drinks: One glass of fizz per person per 30 minutes, or two drinks in the first hour.

Wedding Breakfast (Main Meal)

• Meal Format: Most of our couples opt for a seated meal with 2 starters, 2 mains and a vegetarian or vegan option. This allows guests to pre-select their meal while keeping service smooth and efficient.

• Drinks: Half a bottle of wine per guest for the meal plus water.

Toasts & Speeches

• Fizz for the toast: One glass per guest.

Evening Food

• If you served a full wedding breakfast: Cater for 60–70% of guests.

• If your meal was light or early: Cater for 80–100%.

• Options: BBQ-style evening snacks like bacon rolls, grilled halloumi or sausage baps are always a hit.

3. Account for Extras

• Children: Half-portions or tailored kids’ meals.

• Dietary requirements: Vegan, gluten-free and allergy-friendly dishes.

• Late arrivals: If guests are coming just for the evening, include them in evening food numbers.

4. Don’t Forget the Cake and Desserts

Sweet treats deserve just as much thought as the main meal.

How Much Wedding Cake Do You Need?

• For traditional wedding cake slices: one slice per guest is standard.

• If serving as part of dessert: make sure it’s portioned and plated.

• If cake is more of a visual centrepiece: offer alternative desserts so guests still get something sweet. Cupcakes, donuts and cookies make great informal sweet treats that guests can grab and mingle with.

Additional Dessert Options

• Passed Desserts: Bite-sized treats offered to guests during the reception.

• Dessert Table: A variety of mini puddings, pavlovas or cheesecakes to suit all tastes.

• Supper Sweets: Add an evening sweet treat for late-night guests like brownie bites or truffle boxes.

Our team can help you coordinate cake service and pair it perfectly with your menu.

5. Portion Sizes Matter - Make Sure No One Goes Hungry

When planning your wedding menu, it’s important to understand what a portion really looks like. After all, no one wants to leave a wedding hungry - especially with drinks flowing throughout the day.

Why Portion Sizes Matter

• Fuel for the Day: Weddings are long events and your guests will need enough food to stay energised and enjoy themselves.

• Alcohol & Appetite: With welcome drinks, table wine and toasts flowing, having a well-fed guest list is a must.

• Visual Expectations: Sample menus and a clear running order will help you understand exactly what your guests will eat and when.

How We Help

At The Wells Event Catering, we’ll walk you through portion planning so you feel confident that no guest is left peckish. We’ll advise on quantities based on your timeline and menu choices - especially when planning desserts and evening food.

Our Pro Tip? Balance Variety with Simplicity

More choice isn’t always better. It can lead to unnecessary waste. A well-planned, seasonal menu with options for all dietary needs is better than over-catering with too many dishes.

Need Help Planning Your Menu?

At The Wells Event Catering, we’re here to make wedding planning simple and delicious. Whether you’re feeding 30 guests or 300, we’ll work out exactly what you need - no guesswork, no waste.