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Agony Aunt: The Reception

Dear Emma,

We want to have lots of guests but can't afford to cater for a proper three course wedding breakfast. Are there any cheaper alternatives that won't look like we're cutting corners?

Katie, Birmingham

Dear Katie,

There are lots of options depending on the type of reception you are going to have. The timing of the wedding will be a factor. One held in the morning with dancing into the night will demand two sets of food to keep your guests going, whereas one held in the afternoon could get away with only one meal or buffet. If you are planning on one in a hotel or formal venue, don't feel you have to have three courses, you could offer canap?s to the guests on arrival and then omit a starter. A buffet may cost similar amounts per head, but don't order for every single guest as there are always leftovers so order for ten percent less.

Alternatives include having a barbeque at a summer wedding or if your arrangements are informal and you have willing friends, assign teams to bring the puddings and some to bring salad etc as wedding gifts for your own buffet.