Napkins…

We are working on a very special anniversary party this week, and came across a question even we needed guidance on, how many cocktail napkins should we order? If you’ve ever wondered the same thing, here is the knowledge we found super helpful!

Luncheon & Dinner Napkins: Plan for 1-2 napkins per guest, but of course, it depends on what type of meal service you are doing. If it is a more formal affair, one napkin, usually linen, will be placed at each table setting at where tables are assigned. At parties where there is a buffet, dinner napkins will be placed with the silverware. It is always advisable to have extra dinner napkins, especially if the food being served is particularly messy (BBQ, burritos, watermelon, corn on the cob or other food that is normally hand-held).

Cocktail Beverage Napkins: Plan for your guests to use a cocktail napkin with each drink that is served. If appetizers are involved, the same rule applies: one napkin for each snack. Cocktail napkins should be placed in stacks on the bar, near any finger food being served and also given to wait staff for serving with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. That said, it’s always best to plan on 2-3 cocktail napkins per person per hour. The leftover napkins can be used for desserts (placed on the sweet table), kept as a mementos or used later for another occasion. Good to remember if you are vacillating between putting the date on the napkin!