Jollof math: headcounts, goat ratios, and chair reality

African receptions plan for generosity—there is always one more cousin. Still, the kitchen needs numbers: mains, kids’ plates, vegan aunties, and late-night small chops for the after-party crew.

Translate RSVP into service tickets

Export dietary fields your form collected. If you did not collect them, you will discover allergies at the buffet line.

Buffer 3–7% depending on your family’s reputation for extras.
Separate vendor meals from guest meals in the tally.

Chairs, canopies, and aisle math

Ceremony chairs plus reception chairs are not always the same set. Rain plans double some rentals—budget it.

High table, VIP, and general zones should be drawn before you print cards.
Lagos wind loves canopies; stake them like you mean it.

Timing food with music

If the couple enters late, proteins suffer. Build a hold-and-refresh plan with your caterer.

Small chops during long photo blocks keep grumpiness down.
Tell MC when service starts so speeches do not steam the rice.