Catering Quote Generator
Build professional catering quotes with menu items, staffing costs, and overheads. Print or save for your records.
| Item Name | Cost Per Person | Description |
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Quote Summary
Your Catering Company
Catering Quote
- Client
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- Event Date
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- Event Type
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- Guest Count
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- Service Style
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- Duration
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Menu
| Item | Per Person | Guests | Total |
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How to Create a Catering Quote
A professional catering quote should clearly communicate what the client is getting and what it will cost. Start with the basics: event details, guest count, and service style. Then itemize your menu with per-person pricing so the client can see exactly where their money is going.
Don't forget to include staffing costs, equipment rentals, transportation, and any other overhead. Add tax and gratuity at the end. A transparent, detailed quote builds trust and helps you win more business.
What to Include in a Catering Proposal
- Event details — date, time, location, guest count, and service style
- Menu items — itemized with per-person pricing and descriptions
- Staffing — number of servers, bartenders, and chefs, with hourly rates
- Equipment & rentals — chafing dishes, linens, tableware, etc.
- Additional costs — transportation, setup/teardown, specialty items
- Tax and gratuity — clearly stated so there are no surprises
- Terms — deposit requirements, cancellation policy, payment schedule
Catering Pricing Guide
Catering costs vary widely depending on the event type, service style, and menu. Here are general per-person ranges to help you benchmark your pricing:
- Box lunches: $12–$20 per person
- Buffet: $25–$60 per person
- Plated dinner: $40–$100+ per person
- Cocktail reception: $20–$50 per person
- Food stations: $30–$70 per person
Remember to factor in your target profit margin (typically 10–15% net after all costs) when setting your per-person prices. Use the Recipe Cost Calculator to nail down your exact food costs before building your quote.