HOR D'OEUVRES FOR ANY EVENT!!

A common question we get asked for the first time party hosts is the number of Hor D'Oeuvres needed for guests. A couple factors determine the number needed at any event. First, the type of event is important.

Are you having a cocktail reception only? For instance, if you are having a reception from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM that includes alcoholic beverages, we suggest 7-10 Hor D'Oeuvres per guest. People tend to munch and mingle at these type of events. Another reason is the time and duration of th event. Most people will have eaten dinner by the time they arrive at an event that begins at 8:00 PM. Also, if you want to encourage your guests to drink alcohol and socialize with others, light Hor D'Oeurves might be the way to go! However, light and heavy Hor D'Oeuvres can be combined at this type of event.

So what is the difference between light Hor D'Oeuvres and heavy Hor D'Oeuvres? Glad you asked! Light Hor D'Oeuvres are sometimes easier to eat and tend to be less filling. Things like: crisp endive spears, bruschette, spring rolls, and mini fish tacos. Heavy Hor D'Oeuvre are more subsstantial items that will tend to fill up your guests. This includes beef sliders, crab cakes, chicken skewer satay, filet mignon crostini, and deep fried mac and cheese balls.

Heavy Hor D'Oeuvres can be served if the event is a birthday party, shower, or wedding reception. At this type of event guests assume food will be served. When considering the number of Hor D'Oeuvres to serve guests, take into consideration the itinerary of the event as well as the additional menu items that you might have included for your event. Concerning the itinerary, how long are the guests going to have to eat? For most cocktail hours that also include a buffet or dinner menu, we suggest around 45 minutes to an hour depending on the amount of people attending the event. For smaller parties you should think about the games or activities that will be taking place throughout the event. If the event is full of activities and cake, 3-5 Hor D'Oeuvres could be chosen to satisfy your guests.

The time of these events should be taken into consideration as well. If a wedding begins at 6:00 PM and last all night, we suggest 5-7 Hor D'Oeuvres in addition to a full meal or buffet. When guests attend event, they are more likely to eat the first 30 minutes that food is available.

I hope this bit of information helps you as you plan your next event! Culinary Art Catering has a great menu with Hor D'Oeruve options that will go with any theme you have for your event!