Event Planning Cost Calculator

The cost of in-house event dining service vs. outside catering.

What looks cheaper at first often becomes more expensive once rentals, staffing, setup, and service fees are added. Use this calculator to compare a full in-house experience at STORIES with a typical outside catering setup. Compare wedding event venue costs in Waco.

STORIES In-House Total

$6,300

$63 per guest

Outside Catering Total

$13,200

$132 per guest

Your Event Guest Count

100
0
500

Adjust the slider to compare the estimated total cost of STORIES in-house service versus a typical outside catering setup.

Select your in-house dining tier and service.

1 Silver Entrée • 1 House or Caesar Salad

Includes glassware and silverware placement, plated or family-style service, and attentive staff throughout the event.

Typical Outside Catering Assumptions

Outside Catering Costs

Adjust these to reflect an event venue setup where you hire catering plus required rentals and staffing. Values and cost ranges are estimates for the Waco, TX metro.

$

Per guest ($35-$65)

$

Per guest ($10-$20)

$

Per guest ($8-$15)

$

Per guest ($3-$6)

$

Per guest ($5-$10)

$

Per guest ($5-$8)

$

Flat total ($150-$300)

Percent added to outside catering subtotal (20%-24%)