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So you decided to have a little get-together on the Fourth of July with about twenty of your closest friends. Once the party was planned, the list comprised, the food was really the main thing on everyone's mind. What would we eat? Where would we be seated? How am I going to get all these people inside if it rains?
The first thing anyone needs to know about throwing a party is this: If you plan on enjoying yourself, cater it. I have spent countless birthdays, holidays, and plain old gatherings feeling like walking out and quitting on my own event. Having been a waitress for over twenty years, I can tell you this; there are no worse customers than your own family. From your partner's aunt who will only drink Iced Tea if it is freshly brewed, to your brother's wife who somehow slipped under the radar with her religious dietary needs, this is a group that is better left to professionals.

So this is what I do. I start with my favorite restaurant, asking for a catering menu. Many restaurants offer in home catering, and just don't advertise it. They prefer to go with word-of-mouth, dealing with regular customers who are familiar with the style and quality of their food. Restaurants may offer anything from Buffalo Wings for 5 to full scale service, complete with tents and wait-staff. Price according to your guest list, but also remember that Aunt Mary just might bring along your cousin Joey, and Tony always has a spat with Tina the day before an event. Be flexible with your ordering, erring on the side of extra. Aunt Mary can always take home a piece of chicken.
Once you have your main course in line, remember a nice salad is always a possible complimentary item, especially if you choose two entrees. The nice thing about dealing with a local place is the flexibility. They are always willing to do a little extra to keep a good customer. Pick up your order as late as possible, have it picked up or delivered (Even better) hot, so you don't have to keep it in the oven while you are entertaining. Sterno are usually supplied for an extra deposit-well worth it! There, now your main course is all taken care of, and guess what? When you sit down and calculate the cost of the time involved in shopping, preparing and cooking a meal to feed twenty or so people, you will usually see that you've gotten a bargain.
Next stop is your local butcher or delicatessen. A Four (not a six) Foot hero, is usually more than ample for those picky eaters and kids, if you choose to have

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