Regarding the wedding reception for my niece?

Question

We are having a cake, mints and nuts.......and a cash bar too...is that enough????

Answer 1

You should try to have appetizers too, or a fruit bar...

Answer 2

A cash bar with cake mints and nuts?  Are you willing to risk a room full of drunk people?  Cuz mints & nuts won't be enough to absorb much of any alcohol, and surely the cake won't be cut and served until later; so that's no help.  Consider adding some variety (heavy & light) appetizers at least. If you afford something more substantial, I'd suggest that too.  Otherwise...nix any alcohol at the bar.

Answer 3

Since you'll be serving alcohol you should provide food that is a bit more substantial to help combat the effects of the alcohol that people consume.  Tea sandwiches, meatballs, cheese and crackers, fruit and dip etc....  You don't want people to have too much to drink on empty stomachs and then drive.

Answer 4

Even though it is a later reception, people WILL be expecting some sort of food.  There are some things to consider.  How many people are being invited?  the bride and groom don't want to serve any food?  It's a bit... tacky....

Will people at the actually ceremony also be going to the reception?  Even though there is an hour and a half between the two, is there driving involved to far distances?  If so, people will be hungry after driving for a long time.

I understand that you may not have a ton of money to spend, but there are places that will work with you on your budget.  There are places like Costco, or Safeway that do really nice work for not as much as specialty places.  

Since the reception IS later in the evening, buying some fruit platters and cheesecakes would be good, and maybe some light breads and crackers and cheeses.  You know, just some small items to snack on rather than a meal.  

I'm sorry this is so long... you can email me if you have more questions.

Answer 5

It depends on the time of day. If it is really far from any expected meal time then you should be fine. I would offer one free drink -- iced tea or punch or lemonade and also coffee.  You might have a candy buffet or a meat and cheese tray as well. Make sure people know it is light refreshments.