I always do and usually end up cursing at myself later for taking on so much. At the same time, if I don't serve fresh, homemade food, I feel like a sell out. I made everything from scratch for my DS' party tomorrow with the exception of sandwiches. Normally I would make my own deli tray, but I got lazy and order hoagies. Now I feel guilty
Re: When you host a party, do you make all the food yourself?
Sometimes I make everything, sometimes I order everything.
DD's party is tomorrow. I have a pork roast that has been marinating since yesterday. I am making yellow rice and black beans with it.
I also ordered some sandwiches and a chicken tender tray for the crazy people that don't like cuban food. Plus I am making fruit and veggie trays in the morning.
Crap, I just remembered I need to cut up some onion.
I make a couple of things but order a lot too. I'd be too exhausted to enjoy the party if I had to make it all myself.
nope. Don't have the time and don't need the stress. I will prepare some items, but usually will cater the main course./entree.
the only thing I'd feel bad about is spending the money . I don't think guests care if the food is homemade or not, as long as it's good there would be no complaints.
Depends on the size of the party. Both of my kids had HUGE first birthday parties and I catered both of them. I do get "good" food, though, that people are excited to come and eat. Kate's birthday is Cinco de Mayo so we had a burrito bar from a local, well-known and loved burrito shop. Ben is allergic to dairy and loves meat, so for his we did catered BBQ and sides (pulled pork/beef, mac&cheese, potato salad, slaw, etc). Both parties were huge hits and I don't think anyone missed the fact that I wasn't cooking.
For a smaller group I do generally cook/prepare the food. I think either is fine. Almost every single kid's party I go to is pizza and cake and the kids all love it.