There is nothing worse than planning a party and ending up with a week's worth of leftover deviled eggs - or to the contrary - ending up with guests whose stomachs are still growling! I have created the following guide to help you anticipate your appetizer count for your party planning needs.

COCKTAIL PARTY: (no dinner) Average 12 appetizers per person DINNER PARTY: (dinner is served) Average 6 appetizers per person

To determine your appetizer needs: 12 appetizers X expected guests / Number of different appetizers If you are hosting a dinner party, divide the above number in half

Other tips: Here is a catering rule of thumb for how many appetizers to serve: Number of Guests: Number of Different Appetizers
7-13 guests: 3 appetizers
14-16 guests: 4-5 appetizers
17-44 guests: 6 appetizers
44 - 65 guests: 8 appetizers
66 or more... What are you thinking? Hire a caterer!

As you prepare your appetizers, also remember the more varied the better. Serve some hot and others cold. Also make your appliances work for you. Many appetizers can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen. Others can be prepared in your microwave in minutes.