Weddings on a Budget: Low-Cost Catering Ideas

The financial aspect of a wedding can be burdensome and discouraging. Every bride and groom wants a nice and memorable wedding day. Unfortunately, many are unable to afford the wedding and reception of their dreams. In this case, the couple may opt for a small city hall or house ceremony followed by a small reception.

Many couples look forward to the wedding reception. The reception gives couples the opportunity to greet their guests and have an enjoyable time. When money is a problem, couples tend to skip the reception. Yet, there are ways to have a nice reception without bank loans or maxed out credit cards. Traditionally, wedding receptions include catered meals. Meals may be served or buffet-style. Additionally, the couple may include a selection of finger foods to keep guests satisfied. However, a full course meal is not a wedding reception requirement. Due to tight budgets and high wedding costs, many couples are getting creative and coming up with clever ways to have a wedding reception without going broke.

Coffee and Cake Receptions: If you want a wedding reception, but cannot afford a caterer, take advantage of a coffee and cake reception. These small receptions allow the bride and groom to greet their guest while providing light refreshments. Today, the average caterer charges $10.00 - $20.00 per plate for a catered meal. If hosting a reception for 100 guests, the bride's family would pay $1000.00 - $2000.00 for an average sized wedding, plus the cost of the reception hall rental. On the other hand, coffee and cake receptions cost considerably less. Include a small insert with the invitations and inform guest of the food arrangement.

Finger Food Receptions: An added option for keeping wedding reception costs low is skipping the full course meal and preparing finger foods for guests. Typically, finger foods are appropriate for early afternoon weddings. However, if you are planning an evening wedding and cannot afford a caterer's dinner price, do not place too much emphasis on proper wedding etiquette. Finger foods capable of satisfying any appetite include hot wings, finger sandwiches, devil eggs, chicken fingers, stuffed crabmeat, meatballs, etc. Suitable additions may include a fruit or vegetable tray and wedding cake.

Pot Luck Reception: When funds are limited, beseech the support of relatives and friends. There is at least one good cook in every family. Round up about four or five great cooks and ask them to prepare the reception meal. Create a light menu and purchase all ingredients. If hosting an informal reception, asking each guest to bring a dish is appropriate. Most people can sympathize with a couple's inability to pay for a caterer.