Menu, quantities, service style, staffing and budget — worked out in advance, so the celebration runs on ease rather than guesswork.
The right amount depends on the menu, the event length and whether you're serving snacks, a full meal, or both. For a typical Indian birthday party with snacks and a main course, here's how a caterer plans the spread.
These are planning estimates, not fixed quantities — an experienced caterer adjusts them to the final menu and guest profile.
Enough variety to feel generous, without turning the meal into a production. The right choice depends on age group, preference, venue and budget.
For a 100-guest birthday party, buffet service is usually the more practical route — though table service has its place for a more formal evening.
Staffing requirements are generally lower for a buffet than for full table service. A typical catering team includes a head cook, assistant cooks, food prep staff, buffet attendants, servers, supervisors and cleaning staff.
Your total catering budget covers ingredients, cooking, staff, buffet setup, serving equipment, plates and cutlery, transport, venue setup, live counters, cleaning and applicable taxes. Ask what's included in the package — not just the per-person price.
Give the caterer an accurate guest count, and confirm the final number a few days before the event.
Clarify whether children are included in the headcount.
Choose a balanced menu and avoid stacking too many similar dishes.
Ask for a reasonable buffer — not an excessive one.
Serve smaller initial portions and refill buffet dishes as needed.
Two to four starter options usually give enough variety — the exact count depends on whether a full meal follows.
Often, yes — it allows faster service and gives guests the flexibility to choose their own food.
It depends on whether rice is the primary main course, whether biryani is on the menu, and how many other dishes are served. Your caterer should size this against the full menu.
A reasonable buffer is worth building in — but ordering well beyond that adds cost without adding value.
Some caterers arrange the cake alongside the food; others handle food and service only. Worth confirming at the quotation stage.
Work out your guest count, menu and quantities before you book. Browse Eden Caterers' full menu for ideas.
