Wow, OK. I really just wanted some guidelines on how to tactfully tell people that we are offering what we are offering (and please don't order yourself the lobster and macaroni & cheese entree and double shot of Knob Creek).
Honestly, if you can't afford to host people and give them a proper portion of food, you need to change your hosting plans. 7:30 to 9 PM on a Saturday is when everyone I know eats dinner (and I am in my 30s and many of us work long hours). I'm on a pretty limited budget and I've still managed to host parties over the years, but I do need to adapt my plans to the money I have available.
If money is an issue why not go to a casual pizza place that has beer or host at home and have a local takeout place bring a bunch of apps and supply your own alcohol.
Honestly, I would not let my guests go away hungry. I have repeatedly stated that
I will refill food items as needed. I don't know how that is being translated to doling out a morsel per person. I was just trying to wrap my mind around quantities to get a general idea of what we probably will need. The theme of the party is not
Oliver Twist.
I already stated that I cannot host at home. This venue is down the street and in my price range - as long as people don't go wild ordering random items.
I don't think they will do that, but I wanted some e-hell approved wording in case.
As RoseRed points out, by ordering in rounds, I can ensure that food remains fresh - nothing worse than limp, cold bar food.
Party is this Saturday, so I'm not changing any details at this point - that would be rude to the guests. I'll let y'all know if it is the predicted disaster or not!