Feed 100 Guests Wedding: Budget, Cake, Decor, and Real Tips

When you’re planning to feed 100 guests wedding, a wedding with exactly 100 attendees that requires careful planning around food, space, and budget, you’re not just picking a menu—you’re building a day that feels personal, not packed. This isn’t a tiny elopement, but it’s not a massive ballroom either. It’s the sweet spot where details matter most. You need a cake that serves everyone without looking tiny, a budget that doesn’t vanish on centerpieces, and decor that feels thoughtful, not generic.

One of the biggest questions? wedding cake tiers, the stacked layers of cake designed to serve a specific number of guests. For 100 guests, three tiers—10-inch, 8-inch, and 6-inch—are the standard. That gives you 90 to 110 slices, assuming standard 1x2-inch portions. Skip the four-tier monster unless you’re feeding extra family or want leftovers. And don’t assume your baker knows this—ask how they calculate servings. Some use generous portions that can leave you short. Also, consider a fake top tier for looks and a sheet cake in the back for actual serving. It’s a common trick that saves money and stress.

Then there’s the wedding budget 100 guests, the total amount allocated to cover all wedding expenses for a reception of about 100 people. In 2025, a realistic range is $25,000 to $55,000, depending on location and choices. Catering eats up 40-50% of that. Venue? Another 20-30%. That leaves little for decor, music, or surprises. Don’t fall for the myth that you need $100 per plate to look classy. A well-planned buffet or family-style meal often looks more elegant than plated meals with cheap sides. And if you’re spending big on flowers, ask: are they visible? Or just sitting on tables no one sees? wedding decorations budget, the portion of the wedding budget set aside for floral arrangements, lighting, signage, and table styling should be smart—not flashy. String lights, candles, and greenery in bulk can look more luxurious than a dozen expensive centerpieces.

And don’t forget the guest list itself. wedding guest list, the final compiled list of people invited to attend the wedding ceremony and reception isn’t just names—it’s space, food, seating, and parking. If you’re inviting 100, you’re likely excluding 50+ people you thought you’d invite. That’s normal. It’s not rejection—it’s realism. Focus on the people who’ve been there for you, not the ones who just send birthday wishes. A smaller, tighter group means more conversation, better photos, and less stress on the day.

You’ll find posts here that break down exactly how much cake you need, where your money really goes, what decor works without costing a fortune, and how to handle the guest list without guilt. No fluff. No trends. Just what works for real couples who want a beautiful day without going broke.