Different ideas for catering

[nykkieberry]

We are having an engagement party with well over 100 people expected - however we naively didn't budget for food! We don't want to do a buffet - has anyone got any original ideas for nibbles for each table that won't require much preparation and won't break the bank? Or any other ideas for catering to people's peckish (rather than hungry) needs during the course of the evening? We are putting on the invite that their will be no food. Thanks! Also - any diffrent ideas for cake decoration? Thanks!

[sft42]

Why not stick on the invite bring some grub with you? Tell everyone to bring a little of their own favourite foods (or if you have lots of friends from different parts of the world - National foods).....other than this why not splash out on something plain and simple rather than buffet type foods...how's about something like an Stew or Cottage pie which you can make in bulk and let everyone tuck in? As for different cake decoration why don't you find something that represents your feelings of your partner and he does the same for you....could be a reminder of where you met or something from your pasts but something like that on a plain(ish) cake would be a lot more personal! whatever happens good luck and health and happiness to enjoy each other......remember and tell each other how much you love each other and do it often! Don't end up cynical and twisted like ME!

[BenDToy]

sft42 said it all really. Go for bulky, easy to prepare food. A "bucket" of chilli, curry or pasta type dish with paper or plastic plates and plastic forks is my suggestion. Generally popular and filling, but you may want to offer a veggie alternative.

[gazzawazza]

Nykkieberry, this is not my own point of view but I thought it might help you in making a decision.

I remember seeing some prog years ago where a couple were holding a function (it may have been a wedding reception, can't remember).

They put on their invites that food would not be provided and asked guests to bring their own... ...They hadn't bargained on some people being really offended by this and some were, actually making a big deal of it in front of the cameras and it caused some bad feeling.

As I said this is not my point of view, some people obviously can't provide a budget for food but these people were genuinely upset and outraged that they hadn't been handed a nosebag.

Just thought you might like to consider this before deciding what to do, I personally would understand and think that most people would too but you always get some whingers don't you...

[woodpam]

How about some dips (it's much cheaper to make your own than buy them) and breadsticks, crisps and pitta bread cut into strips. You could always delegate the dip-making to close friends and relatives, they can be made the day before and refrigerated. As it's an engagement party rather than a wedding, your guests shouldn't be offended by not being fed. Concentrate on having a great time and good luck to you.

[nykkieberry]

Many thanks for everybody answers! we have deliberated over the food issue and offending people - but we've done a poll of our friends and people said they would understand! we have rang round the area and no decent venue will let us bring in outside catering - and we have been quoted �400 + for a simple hot buffet of pie and peas!! The dips idea will be cool - we can get that one past the landlord - and i think we will go for a mini buffet on each table with just nibbles and dips. As for the cake -ordered it last night! Silver star on a white cake with sculptures of a pair of pink platform sandles and lime green platform boots! groovy!!!!!!