Tacky catering?

theycallmelinz

Most of my budget is going to food for the reception. I tried to convince FI that we could save a ton of money by having it at a non-meal time but he won't budge, so we're serving a buffet-style meal. The cater I like isn't expensive, but for the number of people on our guestlist the food itself is a huge part of the budget. FI suggested we have a BBQ place cater it. There are plenty of BBQ places locally that would cater, but in my head, I picture a nice pretty reception. Not styrofoam plates and chicken bones. Is this tacky to you? Or would any of you enjoy a bbq reception?

smalfrie19

It really to me depends on your venue. If you are having it in a nice hotel, or yacht club or hall, I would be a little confused. If its a "rustic" venue and it would be in keeping with the tone, then sure, nbd.. as long as you feed me. FWIW, we are having fried chicken for our RD.

lyndausvi

I like BBQ,  as long as they provide sturdy plates, I think you will be fine.  It's a great way to save money.     

We had a BBQ place caterer my dad's party (75 people).   Under $15 per head and there was a ton of food (plus plates, cups, silverware, tea, lemonade).  They cooked it on site with their grill. 

 I would be happy to attend a wedding they catered.

theycallmelinz

I wanted fried chicken actually lol And the wedding/reception both are outside of a plantation home, so BBQ would fit. I'm just not sure if that's what I want.

hellosweetie1015

My cousin got married in March in this nifty little barn. It was catered by barbecue, and it was perfect for her, for the wedding style, and for the venue. Anything fancier would have felt out of place.

Now if you're having a big to-do, in a fancy venue, you would probably need something fancier than pulled pork and chicken. But a simple venue will be made more simple-looking (negatively) if you serve, like, lobster tail and filet medallions or something. 

southernbelle0915

You don't have to serve it on styrofoam plates, for Pete's sake. Whatever you serve, just have it on nice plates with real silverware and you're fine. 

MairePoppy

Bbq doesn't have to served on styrofoam plates. Your caterer should be able to tell you where you can rent dishes and flatware. I'd love bbq at reception. 

beachyone15

The only rule for serving BBQ is to pair it with mac n' cheese!!!

southernbelle0915

beachyone15 said:

The only rule for serving BBQ is to pair it with mac n' cheese!!!

ZOMG can't love 1000000000X so QFT

morphemes

I love BBQ! If it fits with your venue I think it's a great option. 

The one thing I would say is that often BBQ can be tough for the vegetarians--I'd try to be sure there are options for people who choose not to eat meat too. 

Peaseblossom55

Just make sure there is a vegetarian option. 

theycallmelinz

What are some ideas for vegetarian options?

southernbelle0915

lynze425 said:

What are some ideas for vegetarian options?

Mac and cheese
Cheese and Mac
Salad
Fruit
Corn bread
Collards (w/o bacon)
Hush puppies

VulgarGirl

As long as there is enough food for everyone and enough chairs for everyone to sit while eating at the same time, I'm good with whatever you serve.

beachyone15

Bakes beans is another veg option that is filling.

Couggal12

Honestly I love BBQ food a lot, especially mac 'n cheese and cornbread so I would be really happy at your wedding as long as there was enough food and I had a place to eat my meal. Talk to your caterer about maybe having another option other than Styrofoam plates. I'm sure they can help you figure out an alternative.

Senecaf

I'm going to a bbq wedding later this summer. I can't wait! As long as it matches your venue it's fine. And rent real plates. Styrofoam does feel a little tacky but that's an easy fix!

huskypuppy14

lynze425 said:

Most of my budget is going to food for the reception. I tried to convince FI that we could save a ton of money by having it at a non-meal time but he won't budge, so we're serving a buffet-style meal. The cater I like isn't expensive, but for the number of people on our guestlist the food itself is a huge part of the budget. FI suggested we have a BBQ place cater it. There are plenty of BBQ places locally that would cater, but in my head, I picture a nice pretty reception. Not styrofoam plates and chicken bones. Is this tacky to you? Or would any of you enjoy a bbq reception?

The food should be a huge part of your budget. The reception should be 1/2 to 2/3 of your budget. It's really out of place for someone to have fancy flowers and dress and then serve just cake. 

Like pp said, the venue should match your food choice. So subway sandwiches in a historic mansion is tacky. BBQ at a park or a beach venue is great. And upgrade the Styrofoam plates!

lc07

I love BBQ and would love it at your wedding. I just prefer things I can eat with a fork and knife. I wouldn't want to try to eat ribs with my hands in a dress and heels with my hair and makeup done. I've never tried to eat ribs with a fork and knife, although I guess it's possible.

Anyway, buffet style, as a guest, I'd choose the things I could eat that would be the least messy.

MairePoppy

Don't forget potato salad and coleslaw : )

Tasty bbq is much better than standard banquet food.

emmyg65

I had a pig roast, like with a whole pig and everything. He even had a little top hat on! And we served it on paper plates. It was in a backyard and it was delicious. Way tastier than anything else we could have afforded.

beethery

There are also really nice ways to plate BBQ and fancy it up if you'd like.

These are from Southern Living:

Just lay it out right, and ANYTHING can look upscale! You've GOT THIS!!!!!

CrazyCatLady3

southernbelle0915 said:

What are some ideas for vegetarian options?

Mac and cheese Cheese and Mac Salad Fruit Corn bread Collards (w/o bacon) Hush puppies

Please provide more than just side dishes.  Think veggie burgers, for example.

Peaseblossom55

 May be the vendor can do some tofu marinated in bbq sauce and grilled?

MamaAlly89

We are having a bbq wedding! I thinks it great because it's different than you typical wedding food, and many people enjoy bbq. You definitely don't have to serve it on Styrofoam either. I do agree with PPs though that maybe if you are having a more formal affair it might look a little out of place.

SBmini

Not just the venue, but your formality should match the catering. You don't want to do bbq with a black tie wedding, but if it is some what casual, then bring on the ribs!