Not feeding evening guests?

catwoman

We are hoping to renew our vows next year in a lovely hotel near us with just our 2 daughters and our parents followed by a meal. Afterwards we would like other family members and friends to join us for drinks but wouldn't be able to afford to feed them! is this acceptable or will they expect there to be a buffet?

snugglepants

I'm sure that if you explain this to them then they won't mind at all. Are you inviting them after the "dinner-hour" (ie after people would usually eat their evening meal). I think you'd only have a problem if you invite them and don't mention they won't be being fed, as they might presume they will.

If you're able to afford it, you could leave some "chips-and-dip" and nuts around to nibble on (soak up the alcohol )

fuzzybear01

Unfortunately most hotels will charge through the nose even for snacks. There were a few people that came to my wedding after the meal for drinks. Some even stayed in the bar while we ate. This was mostly partners that we didn't have space to invite properly.

catwoman

Thought we could invite them to come about 7.30 or 8pm and word the invite "please join us for drinks" or words to that effect.

fuzzybear01

Yep I think that would be fine

snugglepants

That's a good idea, the time is good and the wording will back it up, in case there is any confusion!

ria.pulls

As long as you make it clear they are only invited for drinks i'm sure everyone will be happy.....Will they then expect you to buy them the drinks though?? There always seem to be people who would be offended

mookybargirl

Just a thought. Are you having a cake? Could get a big one from Costco for £10 and serving that up might make it less obvious that there's no buffet food. I think asking them join you for drinks is a good idea too.

shellnapier

not had my wedding yet but for my 300 evebning guests at 5 a head for a sanwhich n tea... i didnt fancie it heres my plan!!

i want a really big ckae, for the design.... and am not gona serve cake after my meal... im gona keep it untill night as i want all night guests too see it - meal guests are only fmaily (50) also im having a pudding buffet after meal- with all differnt pudding, ice cream, etc so if any left i shall also put that out at night!!

true27

catwoman wrote: »

Thought we could invite them to come about 7.30 or 8pm and word the invite "please join us for drinks" or words to that effect.

If you can afford to buy a round of drinks at the start of the evening, why not call it a cocktail reception and get a couple of jugs of pimms or similar made up behind the bar?

catwoman

I like the idea of cupcake cakes and I'd like the number 10 on the top of each.All my guests could have one of those to eat or take home.