Inexpensive christening/baptism party ideas?

otoro98

Pls send me your budget conscious ideas for the post baptism meal! We're thinking something nice but casual - whether in a home/park/restaurant. Thank you so much! I need some brainstorming help!  Date for the event is late June. 

Hey Jellisy

We're baptising our son this weekend and we are hosting the post reception in our home.  We are doing a combination of home made and prepared foods.  I don't know how many people you expect, we think we will have between 30-40.  Everything will be set up as a casual buffet.  I think it will cost us about $250.  Here's our menu

Appetizers
Crudite and pita with hummus (hummus from Costco)
Cheese and crackers
Chips and prepared salsa
Nuts
Pretzels
Animal crackers and Goldfish (for the little kiddies)

Dinner
Spiral Baked Ham (just have to heat)
Pulled Pork (Made in advance and will reheat in crockpot that day)
Chicken Salad (from Costco)
Rolls and croissants (from Costco)
Baked Beans (made in advance, will reheat in crockpot that day)
Veggie Pasta Salad (probably asparagus, broccoli, peas and green beans tossed in a lemon vinaigrette with Parmesan shavings)
Macaroni and Cheese (will make that morning reheat in oven)
Coleslaw (from Costco)
Corn on the Cob (cut into wagon wheels)
Green Salad
Fruit Salad

Dessert
Cake (from Costco)
Cupcakes (A friend is bringing)

Beverages
Soda
Iced Tea
Lemonade
Water
Beer
Wine

ch ch ch chia

We did lasagna, ceasar salad, garlic bread, fruit salad, a cheese tray, costco cake, and a few other little nibbles.

I like the spiral ham idea, too.  You can even serve it cold with rolls and fancy mustard, along with a fruit and veggie tray. 

smacb

We did sandwiches at our house with some salads, punch and cake.

otoro98

Thanks to you all!  Our condo is very small, but maybe my parents can host at their home if we do it ourselves w/ homemade/costco foods...I want it to be fun and low key. Thanks again!