Are there determining factors in deciding what type of meal to serve?

To certain extend, yes. There is breakfast, morning snack, lunch, afternoon snack, reception, dinner and so on. The type of service you select will depend on the length of time of your event, your budget and guests. A combination of service may be appropriate such as breakfast and lunch or a reception followed by a seated dinner.

How much do I need to order?

You will need to order enough but not too much that you will have unnecessary leftover. Our catering consultant can direct you to gauge the right amount of food and beverages for the type of event you are planning. It will all depend on the time of day, type of food, different courses and menu selection.

How much do I need to serve for a reception?

For a two hour reception, plan on serving 12 to 16 pieces per person for individual bite size hors d’oeuvres and about 3 or for selections. For items displayed on buffet table, you will at least need to serve 3 different selections. However, we recommend at least 5 different selections which can include one sweet choice. You may also combine your selection between individual pieces and displayed platters. Reception is usually served with beverages, whether you choose to serve non-alcoholic beverages, beer and wine or a full bar.

How much appetizers do I need if I am serving dinner after a reception?

A one-hour Cocktail before a dinner, whether it is a seated or buffet style requires approximately 4 to 5 pieces per person for individual hors d’oeuvres or 3 selections of light displayed appetizers. Your guests will enjoy dinner if they do not fill themselves with the appetizers.

How much beverages do I need?

The following is a guideline to help you order beverages. However, you know your guests better then we do. The more information you provide our catering consultant, the more they will be able to help you make your decision.

• Non Alcoholic Beverages: Plan on serving 3-(8 to 12 oz) beverages per person for about a 4 hour party
• Wine: 750 ml bottle of wine will serve approximately 4 to 5 glasses, depending on the wine glasses you order.
• 750 ml bottle alcoholic beverages will serve approximately 20 cocktails
• Two liter bottle soda will serve approximately 10 – 8 oz glasses
• Beverages by the gallon: Beverages such as punch, Ice tea, coffee, each gallon will serve 16 – 8 oz glass or cup.

How much do I order for Breakfast?

Here is an example of what to order for breakfast services per person:

Continental breakfast:

• One 8 oz breakfast juice or breakfast beverages
• Coffee or tea: plan on serving one 16 oz serving
• One and one half breakfast pastries
• About 4oz to 5 oz assorted fruits

Hot breakfast:

• One 8 oz breakfast juice or breakfast beverages
• Coffee or tea: plan on serving one 16 oz serving
• 4 oz of breakfast protein (bacon, sausage, breakfast steak)
• 6 oz of eggs
• 4 oz breakfast potato, waffle or pancake
• One each sweet breakfast pastry or two pieces of bread

How much shall I order for a luncheon?

Here is a guide in ordering food for lunch per person:

Hot Entrée:

• One about 4 to 5 oz of protein
• Two side dishes at 4 oz each (a starch an a vegetables for example)
• One green salad
• Bread
• Dessert
• Beverage

Cold Lunch:

• One Sandwich or entrée salad
• Two side dishes at 4 oz each (Pasta Salad and fruit salad for example)
• Potato chips (optional)
• Dessert
• Beverage

Where do I start if I want to plan a party?

Whatever your event may be, planning is important. However, you do not need a reason to have a party. From a small get together with friends, planning a reunion for college friends or maybe you are planning a wedding, Maison Culinaire recommend that you start with a check list from those things that are most important to you to the least important.

How do I make the checklist?

Maison Culinaire can provide you with this checklist. Contact our catering consultant  who will be happy to assist you.

Do you have recommendation for rental sites?

Yes. The possibilities are many; our catering coordinator will be happy to assist you. The type of event will determine the site that is best for you. We have a list of sites we have worked with in the past and we can recommend other sites that will be appropriate for the type of event you are planning.