Identification

• If you are having a party for children, you will need less food than for a party for adults, as children have smaller stomachs and are likely to eat much less than adults.
  
  

Types

• If you are serving an entire meal, from appetizers to desserts, you will need plenty of food. Calculate at least five appetizers per person (for example, five mini tacos), one pound of food per person (for adults) at the entrée and one serving of dessert per individual. Also be sure to include plenty of drinks.
  
  

Considerations

• If you are only serving dessert or appetizers, you will need more of them than if you are serving a full meal. People may eat up to three desserts apiece. Appetizers, if there is a wide variety, may range from five each to ten each.