So what food do I do for a party buffet?

[Haylstones]

I'll have mum and sis to help me but have agreed to do a buffet for a 21st party (lots of oldies too). I've only ever done children's parties and can't remember being at buffet parties so any tips would be great.
Am thinking sandwiches, sausage rolls, crisps, nuts, dips, salad... sounds so unoriginal! Should I do sweet dessert type things too?
How on earth do I do it without being naff? I think there will be between 60 and 80 and would rather not spend a fortune or 3 days preparing food.
Where is the best place to shop?
TIA!

What about platters of cold roast meat, various salads, pickles, coleslaws, selection of nice breads if you want to add something hot mini-jackets or tiny new potatoes

For pudding a cheese board/big bowl of fruit salad, shop bought gateaux, cheesecake

then coffee and mints.

I don't suppose it really matters where you shop, just all depends on your budget.

tHANKS, GREAT IDEAS. I could do some cold pasta salads I suppose.
I really wish Ihad an imagination!

Do you know anyone with a Costco card who could take you to have a browse round? Their gateaux/apple pies etc are fab and very reasonable. Also thinks like skewers/cheeses/cold meats/meatballs and if you want stuff to heat up, chinese/indian snacks, fab quiches etc.

I do know someone with a costco card but the party is for him! Think it'll have to just be a supermarket

Thanks califrau, that's exactly what I needed to know

I'd do proper desserts - couple of pavlovas, a cheesecake and a fruit salad would be standard fare at my parties!

Before that I'd have much the same as Califrau - cheeseboard, hams, nice breads, mabe smoked salmon, salad, quicke/pizzza and probably a huge bowl of coronation chicken. Lots of crisps, olives, veg and dips.

here's a nice spread for biscuits -

take philladelphia cheese and pour over sweet chilli sauce