Food options for wedding

I think people under estimate how expensive hors d’oeuvres actually are. $3-6 per person times 3-4 different hors d’oeuvres…I would talk to your venue and see who they endorse for catering. I’ve been told that if you sit down with a caterer and talk through your budget they will be more than willing to accommodate you. I also agree with everyone else that if the reception is during dinner hours your guests are going to want a full course meal. Another option would be looking into restaurants/ “fast food” places that cater - moes, Olive Garden, pananera bread, places like that near you. Taco bars are becoming popular so that could be an option as well.

There is a big misconception that a full multi course meal is required regardless of the time of day. Many weddings don’t have full meals (plated for example) but they offer what is appropriate for the reception time. At a non meal time (1pm-4pm or 8pm and later) you can get away with appetizers and desserts, and alcohol is not expected during those times. Another misconception is that heavy appetizers don’t meet the equivalent of a full meal and that they are budget friendly. Heavy appetizers are heavy such as egg rolls, satay, carving stations, etc., not fruit and cheese platters. Also it is suggested to serve 15-20+ heavy appetizers per person while a plated meal is the equivalent of 5-7 heavy appetizers.


The best option for a budget if you must have alcohol which is always optional, call up your favorite local restaurant and ask them about their catering options. Most will drop off more food that tastes better than a regular caterer at a fraction of the price. But you need to hire servers from thumbtack.

My Stepmom threw my Father a surprise birthday party a while back. She ordered little pinwheel sandwiches, fruit, and vegetable trays. It wasn’t nearly enough. People were drunk and starving two hours later. I took matters in my own hands and ordered a bunch of pizzas to be delivered. Everyone scarfed it down.