Sweet Basil Catering

"Planning your wedding dinner on a budget"

Undoubtedly, some well-meaning relative has advised that your wedding is a time to pull out all the stops. Of course you want to celebrate your big day in a big way, but what if you're not able to afford lobster for a hundred guests? Does that mean you're supposed to limit your food to jordan almonds and punch? Not hardly!

There are many ways to provide excellent food for your guests, even on a minimal budget. Setting the time of your wedding in the early afternoon makes a natural setting for some nice appetizers. Even your hard-to-please mother in law will be impressed.

To keep costs even lower without looking like a tightwad, choose ingredients that are fresh, in season, and vegetarian. Skip the seafood, meat, and exotic cheeses in favor of things like Black Bean Tostada Bites, Hummus and Pita Chips, fresh veggies and a simple herbed cream cheese dip. You'll come off as health-conscious and considerate.

If you want to serve a full dinner, on the other hand, opt for similar ingredients and serve your meal buffet style. Pasta with a great sauce is always good, and you can often add a smidge of more expensive ingredients, like prawns, without breaking your budget. Add a few unusual salads with in-season veggies and some really good local bread and you're set!

For more info on how to plan your menu for the big day, sign up for our free newsletter at www.sweetbasilcatering.net.