The Formula
Take the number of guests. Multiply by 8. That's your wing count for a 3-hour party. Add 20% if you're watching a close game (stress eating). Subtract 10% if you have other food (but why would you).
For 12 People
- Base: 12 x 8 = 96 wings
- Close game buffer: +19 = 115 wings
- Round up for ordering: 120 wings (10 dozen)
Sauce Distribution
The optimal ratio is 40/30/20/10: 40% classic buffalo, 30% your crowd-pleaser (honey BBQ works), 20% hot (for the people who think they can handle it), 10% wildcard (Korean, lemon pepper, whatever makes you interesting).
Ordering Strategy
Order from one place. Do not attempt to mix vendors. The wing from one kitchen should be the wing from one kitchen. Use BringWings to figure out who can handle your volume.
Nobody has ever said "we ordered too many wings." Plan accordingly.