How Do You Know the Number of Plates and Cups You Need For an Event

Planning an event is never easy because there are so many elements you need to consider in order for it to be a success. You’ll want to keep guests happy and unless you’ve taken care of all the details, you run the risk of a failed event. Providing the right number of tableware is very important and something your guests will notice if you get it wrong. The last thing you want to be remembered for is not having enough plates or leaving guests scrambling for a cup.

Knowing exactly how many plates and cups are needed is not as easy as it seems because in addition to having enough for every guest, you need to have extras in case additional guests show up or different plates are needed throughout the evening. Cups are especially tricky because you never really know how much a person will drink and how many glasses they’ll go through during the event.

Luckily, there is a way to estimate the number of plates, cups and even napkins your party will require so that you’re ready for your event and no detail is forgotten. Knowing the number of guests attending the event is a very important detail because this is essentially what your calculations will be based on.

When it comes to plates, the number will be based on the way you’ll be serving the meal. For example, if you’re serving in a buffet style, it is recommended that you order 1.75 times as many plates as you have guests and this number takes into consideration any mishaps and last-minute guests while allowing attendees to have seconds as well. This calculation is ideal because it leaves room for a buffer and makes sure you don’t order an unnecessary amount of leftover plates that you’ll be stuck with afterward. Let’s say that 50 people were to attend your event, you would need to order 88 plates to be safe. Dessert plates are trickier because, in addition to the number of guests, the types of desserts will make a difference, too. Generally, it is recommended that you order 1.25 dessert plates per guest.

Cups require a whole different calculation because there is always a high chance of guests losing their cups, misplacing them or wanting refills in a new cup. For these reasons, you’ll need more cups than plates and in order to play it safe, it is recommended that you order three times as many cups as you have guests as this number will ensure no guest is thirsty throughout the event.

Dina Party Rentals in Toronto can provide you with whatever party supplies your next event requires, including table and chair rentals. They’ll help you select the right numbers and ensure you get it right, so if you want your next event to be a hit, contact Dina Party Rentals today!