baptism reception: at home or restaurant?

snickerdoodle27

We're inviting about 30 guests to our dd's baptism in June. This includes children also. I'd love to have it at home. We can have it outside if it's nice, and the kids can run around, etc. The problem is if it rains. My house just isn't big enough for 30 people! I called a restaurant nearby and they offer brunch for $12.99 a person. By the time we buy food/drinks/cake I'm thinking it woudn't be that much cheaper than having it at the restaurant. Thoughts?

MrsSstrug

$13 is freaking steal for not having to clean up your house before or after

SA7206

I'd have it at the restaurant.

martinilove

I think the big question is whether you want to take the risk of having 30 people in your house if it rains.  I mean, it's June, so the chances of that are less but you never know!  That said, I think $13/person is a little much for a baptism!  Are they providing the cake too or do you have to get that on your own?  If so, then it may not bee too bad for price!

You could easily spend less than $13/person having it at your home.  A good friend of mine had her twins' first communion celebration at her house last June and there was about 20 people there.  She actually had soup (a couple of different kinds that she picked up from a local restaurant and then kept them in crockpots to stay warm), 2 types of salad (caesar and something a little more fancy), appetizers, fresh fruit and cake.  She had punch to drink along with coffee and water.  It was really good and everyone really enjoyed it.  A few of us helped out in bringing the apps and helping with the salad, fruit, etc. because she was so busy.  Could you have people help you out as well and bring some things?

 

Maybride2

If you have no "rainy day" option at your house, then go with the restaurant. 

You could do it cheaper at home, but not with all of the food/options that the restaurant will provide. 

On a side note, I had no idea that baptisms were that big of a deal that 30 people would be invited.

GatorWedsNole

MrsSstrug:

$13 is freaking steal for not having to clean up your house before or after

Ditto.

One thing to keep in mind - is there an additional 20% charge for gratuity?

I think I might stick to the restaurant though.  I'd consider skipping the cake altogether if the brunch food is good and offers some sweet options.  GL!

6fsn

Add tax and tip and it's more like $16.50 pp not counting drinks.  I'd say you are close to $600 just at the restaurant.  You can do at home much cheaper.  Much.  I do worry about the rainy day options.  Is there a clubhouse or parish hall you can use?

bg022202

You also have to think that not everyone will show. I personally would have it at the restaurant just to not stress and not have to clean etc. However, you could probably do it cheaper at your house. You might be able to call the rectory of the church. They often will let you rent it out for cheap. 

wejustwant2:)

I had aprox. 50 guests at our home for both our daughters' Christenings.   (My husband has a large family).

I did the cleaning and most of the cooking (I used to work in catering/special-events) and did almost everything "make-ahead" since our guests would be coming straight from the church.

It was a LOT of work - though a joy as well because no one had seen our home and guests hung out for hours.  I also cooked all of my favorite foods and am very picky about those types of things.  To accomplish this with two babies... I made my own menus, production schedules etc.  For weeks before the party I was up late at night - and was really exhausted afterwards.

So... if you are very busy and don't want to cook/clean etc. I would have it at the restaurant - but if you LOVE to entertain and want to "throw" a house type party - then go for it. 

Best of Luck to you whatever you choose!

kjvogelsang

MrsSstrug:

$13 is freaking steal for not having to clean up your house before or after

 

Agreed!

TeamRey

We had ours at our home in February so it had to be inside.  We also had thirty people.  I was worried about not fitting everyone but it worked out.  If you do it at home just get some fold out tables and chairs if you can fit them.  If its family they won't mind being close.