Wondering how to cater for 100 guests on a budget? You are not alone. According to the 2025 Global Business Travel Forecast, costs for meeting attendees are predicted to increase by 4.3%, reaching $169 per person per day. Despite these rising expenses, you can still create an enjoyable and wallet-friendly event in Baltimore or beyond, whether you are planning a wedding, corporate function, or private celebration. Below are practical strategies that keep costs manageable without compromising on quality.
Plan your menu wisely
A thoughtful menu is your first step to success. Seasonal foods often cost less and arrive fresher (especially useful in Maryland’s changing seasons). You might also serve crowd-pleasing dishes like slow-cooked pot roast, baked penne pasta, or big-batch soups. Each of these options can stretch your budget further, yet still pack a flavorful punch.
- Offer six appetizer pieces per person. Guests tend to eat about 10% less at dinner when appetizers are served.
- Aim for 1.5 servings of each main dish per guest if you choose a buffet (so everyone gets enough).
- Include something for every diet type. If you want a more tailored approach, consider exploring what is diet catering? to ensure guests with dietary restrictions are well accommodated.
Opt for buffet style
Shifting from plated meals to a buffet can significantly reduce staffing costs and food waste. Buffets give everyone the flexibility to choose their portion size, and they are generally cheaper when you are catering for 100 guests.
- You need fewer servers when guests serve themselves. This frees up your budget for higher-quality ingredients or additional options.
- Seasonal buffet stations, like a summer salad bar or a winter soup station, add variety without stretching your budget too much.
Manage your drink choices
Drinks can eat up a large chunk of your budget, but you can keep this in check with a few clever moves:
- Serve a limited bar. Instead of stocking a full range of liquor, focus on wine and beer, or invite guests to bring their own special beverage. This approach cuts costs while still providing a celebratory feel.
- Plan to have about 25 gallons of drinks total for 100 guests (that covers at least four 8-ounce servings each).
- For a mixed crowd, assume someone might not prefer alcohol. Keep water, soda, and juice in good supply—about five drinks per person if your event runs a few hours.
Choose a value caterer
Cost matters, but so does the caterer’s reliability and quality. Look for a catering partner who offers special packages or bulk discounts for events of your size. Ask if table linens, glassware, or setup is included, so you do not encounter hidden charges. You can even compare caterers by learning more about their services, such as what are the three types of catering?.
- Focus on proven experience with large groups. Reputable caterers handle logistics smoothly so you can enjoy your event.
- Read reviews or talk to past clients to confirm the food is still fresh, delicious, and safe.
- Good news—finding value does not mean going cheap on quality. If the cuisine is disappointing, your guests will remember.
Bring it all together
Catering for 100 guests on a budget does not need to be stressful. By planning your menu carefully, opting for a buffet, managing your drink plan, and picking a caterer who offers genuine value, you can keep costs down and the meal experience high. And remember, regardless of your event type—wedding, business function, or milestone party—your guests will notice the inviting atmosphere, fresh flavors, and thoughtful touches. Start with one or two of the tips above, and watch your planning process become smoother. You have this under control, and the data shows you can absolutely succeed.