Expert: Teri Davis Newman - 6/24/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi,
 I'm getting married in 2 months, with about 100 guests invited (but obviously not all show).  

And I'm having a hard time figuring out what to feed everyone.  I'm on a really tight budget (under $2000 for the whole wedding), so every catering company I've called is WAY to much money.  I'm looking to keep food & Drinks (non-alcoholic) under $400.

We are renting a hotel meeting room for the reception, and having the ceremony there in front of a fountain.  So the whole wedding will be at one site  We'll also have a hotel room, that includes a full fridge, microwave & oven all day.

I was originally thinking sandwiches, because its cold food.  Easier to keep in a refrigerator, and then just serve along with sides. But even those added up pretty high when you include the lunch meet.  :/  

Could you give me suggestions on what to do about the food, and maybe tips on how to serve it?  I got choose this hotel because it was a good deal, but renting the room doesn't include having anyone to help serve, so it will be all on me, and probably my wedding party.  

Thanks a million,
Christina

ANSWER: You can't feed people and give them drinks for $4 per person--not even from McDonalds.  If I were you, I would contact Boston Market via their website.  They do catering for large groups for not a lot of money, I think you could probably get everyone fed, but that's not going to be your biggest problem.  Most venues do not allow food from outside sources or alcohol they don't pour themselves, so you need to make sure they are going to let you do this.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks, I will check boston market.  The hotel only allows outside catering (which is why they don't help with the serving etc), and they are letting me bring in my own alcohol. But to rent out the meeting room all day (8am-2am, including tables, chairs, and linins for $400 (including ceremony on the grounds) that fits over 100 people, I thought that was a steal, but it just places me with the problem of feeding everyone.   

Thanks again!

Answer
That's pretty outrageous for a room, but the linens are not cheap to rent. Boston Market WILL send servers I think and they'll also set up a buffet line. You'll need to order the chicken (which is really good BTW) and they'll give you two sides and cornbread. I'd make a rum punch for drinks and you can go to Sam's club to get dessert--they sell a pre-sliced (12 slices)4 pound Cheesecake factory brand cheesecake (Plain--but you could make a topping bar)for under $11 each or go to Wal-Mart and get your wedding cake--they do beautiful cakes that will serve 120 for about $125 and they are delicious--it's my secret cake source--so don't rat me out!! LOL If you need any more help, visit my website www.exquisiteeventsusa.com and get my direct contact information and call me!