Cheapest Way to Feed 100 People for Your Wedding

Planning a wedding in Bristol and worried about feeding a hundred guests without breaking the bank? You’re not alone. Food often eats up most of the budget, but a few smart moves can slash costs dramatically. Below are easy, real‑world ways to keep the plates full and the price low.

Go DIY with a Buffet Style Setup

Instead of hiring a full‑service caterer, consider a DIY buffet. Rent a few large chafing dishes, buy bulk ingredients from a wholesale market, and let a trusted friend or family member handle the cooking. Simple dishes like pasta salad, roast chicken, and roasted veg are cheap, quick, and can be prepared in large batches. Serve everything family‑style on platters – guests love the relaxed vibe, and you avoid per‑plate service fees.

Choose Cost‑Effective Menu Items

Think about dishes that stretch the ingredient list. A hearty chili, Bolognese sauce, or a big pot of curry can feed many people for a fraction of the price of a plated steak. Pair the main with inexpensive sides such as garlic bread, mixed greens, or seasonal vegetables. Skip fancy dessert plates and offer a simple cake or a DIY sweets bar with cupcakes and cookies – these are cheaper to make in bulk and still feel celebratory.

Another trick is to use local, seasonal produce. Bristol’s markets provide fresh veggies and herbs at lower prices than imported items. When you plan your menu around what’s in season, you cut costs and get better flavor.

Don’t forget drinks. Buying bulk soft drinks, water, and a case of wine from a wholesale supplier beats the markup at a bar. Offer a signature cocktail made with a few ingredients instead of a full open bar – it looks classy and saves money.

Leverage Bulk Discounts and Suppliers

Many supermarket chains and wholesale clubs offer volume discounts for large orders. Call ahead and ask for a price break on 100‑person portions. Some local butchers will give a reduced rate if you order a whole chicken or a large cut of meat and then carve it yourself. This can shave 20‑30% off the typical catering bill.

If you still want a professional touch, hire a caterer for just the hot stations while you handle the cold items. A hybrid approach lets you keep the quality of a few key dishes without paying for a full service.

Save on Staffing and Rentals

Ask friends to help with serving, clearing plates, and refilling drinks. A small team of volunteers can replace costly waitstaff. For plates and cutlery, consider renting from a local party supply shop – they often have package deals for large events. Alternatively, use reusable plastic or melamine ware; it looks decent and can be washed and reused, cutting rental fees.

Finally, plan your timing well. Serve the meal in two courses instead of three, or opt for a brunch wedding. Breakfast items like pastries, eggs, and fruit are cheaper than a dinner menu but still feel special.

By mixing DIY cooking, smart menu choices, bulk buying, and a little help from friends, feeding 100 people can stay under a modest budget. You’ll still have a tasty, memorable meal without the stress of an overblown price tag.