Party - do I have to feed people?

[Dawevi]

I'm having a big party for an upcoming big birthday, hiring a venue and getting a band or DJ but that is quite expensive. I was looking at catering prices and realise that it will push the party into a price bracket that I'm really uncomfortable with. I was wondering if a party starts at 8:00 or 8: 30 do I really need to feed people?

If I was really clear on the invitations to eat before you come (I'm not sure how I would word this, suggestions are welcome please) then do you think people would be okay with that?

For previous big birthdays I have catered but things are different financially now.

Alternatively, I wondered about just providing bowls of nibbles on the tables.

What do you think? If you went to a party would you be cross if you had to you eat before you went?

I'm back with an update!

The venue did some classic party food for me to my budget, so quiche, mini pizzas that kind of thing and it was all eaten so even though people had dinner beforehand they obviously were hungry!

The band was brilliant, the venue was amazing - like a private club vibe, very smart and luxe - and we all had a fantastic time, me especially!

Overall I spent 2k – 1k on the band, £500 discount price for venue and £500 on food, plus £130 on a huge cake. I couldn't have spent any more but it was worth every penny and everyone enjoyed themselves which was the main thing. No one was bothered that it was a pay bar (that would be expected in my friend group).

I do think I could have got away with nibbles but people did appreciate the food, especially the four children there - the venue made my son and his friend their own platter of mini pizzas!

So to answer my own question, you don't have to feed people but they will appreciate it and it did provide a nice break in the evening and stopped people getting too drunk!

My main takeaway is to be honest with venues about your budget as they are often flexible especially in January when they struggle to get bookings. They were so good about creating a menu to fit my budget.

Glad all went well. I do love a happy ending !

It sounds lovely!

Well done.

Glad this went well!

Thanks for updating.
Glad you took on board all the advice about needing to offer food.

Thanks for updating us, I'm so glad it went well and you all had a wonderful time. I love a happy ending!

I’m glad you had such a great time! Sounds like it was a great party!

But I’m confused, you say no need to provide food but your guests were obviously hungry enough to eat it all. Surely that shows food was needed!