Anyone who’s been to one knows that you are constantly keeping an eye out for the waitstaff, spotting them from across the room. You keep one eye on them, trailing off your conversation with another party guest, hoping that they make it over to you with food still on the platter. They rarely do. Like seagulls, people descend on them, feigning politeness ('Oh, you have the last one. No really, you have it') when what they really want to do is take a whole platter off to a dark corner and stuff their faces.
When people look back on your party the next day, the last thing you want is for them to be talking about how hungry they were. Plus, with nothing to line their stomachs, you’re sure to have a few guests who are pretty embarrassed about their behaviour.
I attended a cocktail-style wedding last night where there wasn’t enough food, and it prompted me to share some tips for ensuring that your guests don't go home via McDonalds.
1. The ten-piece rule
The average person will eat ten canapés before they start to feel full - so ordering at least ten per person is the best way to keep your guests happy.
2. Cater for all tastes
Remember, not everyone is going to eat every type of food - so make sure there is plenty of variety. As someone who can't eat fish, I was left disappointed as the first six platters that came out last night were salmon and swordfish. By the time a non-fish dish made it to me, I was ravenous! Factor this in to the ten piece rule too - there needs to be enough platters for people to reach their quota even if they skip a few dishes.
3. Switch up the order
Once everyone has had one of something, take out a different platter rather than more of the same. Not only does this help those who might not want any of the first canapé, but it allows your guests to try each of your delicious dishes before they fill up. Everyone likes to try something new - and by the time you bring out more of the same, it’ll only be the people who are still hungry that are still eating.
4. Get it out early
It can be tempting to space out the platters throughout the night, but in reality people want to eat pretty soon after they get to a party as it’s usually around the time they'd normally be eating lunch or dinner. Having two canapés per hour doesn't touch the sides and by the time the next lot comes out, it feels like you haven't eaten a thing yet, so you're starting from an empty tank again. People are generally good at knowing when to stop too - if you fill them up early, they'll stop saying yes to platters and they can focus on having a good boogie.
5. Leave something for the midnight snackers
There will always be those people who start to think of food again late into the night. Leave something out on the table for them so that they can find their way to it when their tummy’s start to rumble again. Last night, my saving grace was a beautiful carrot wedding cake of which I had a few pieces since it was all I could get my hands on.
Follow these tips and your guests will look back on your party with nothing but fond memories. Happy party planning!
Sophie McAulay
(Guest blogger)
Salt of the Earth Cateting Staff Member
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