Our son will be making his first holy communion on Sunday, May 4th. In our lives as Catholics, your first holy communion is a big deal, not only for our son, but for all of our extended family, including friends.
So, our problem is rather or not to have a party for him, and if we do, how do we keep it simple without spending that much money. When he was baptized, all those years ago, we had this huge sit down dinner. I guess we had more money then, and we lived in a bigger house that we rented, so it was easier.
We should really have a party of some sort. Let me know what you have done and what you think I/we should do. Since the date of the communion is May 4th, you never know how the weather is going to be for a bbq etc...
Today was the big day! We ended up having picnic style foods at our house. I had my Aunt, Cousin and Friend all bring salads, so it was not such a burden on me! All in all the day turned out great, a little chilly but great. Thanks for all the great advice!
I would rent a place maybe at a church or community center or park etc.(the ones with kitchens in it) They usually are very inexpensive! have a radio for music(everyone loves music) make a cake yourself and make two or three hot foods and drinks and your set! You can really do all of this for not a lot of money.... just don't be afraid to ask a close friend or relative to help you organize the event. Good luck!
-M.
A.,
I just went through the same thing as you, except it was a Christening. My husband is one of 10, so our family is huge. We also combine my daughters Christening with my nephew's. (they are only 7 weeks apart) We rented a Firehouse hall and called a local Deli and got lunch meat tray, rolls, bread and salads and we did it for about $450 for 120 people. the all was $150 and that included the soda. We bought beer and a couple boxes of wine and we all had a great time. I think the total for the party was $800 for everything, but that was for a double party. check in your area for Firehouse Halls. Some of them even recommend a Deli!! Good Luck and Have Fun
I agree with the other respondant who suggested snacks/dessert a few hours after the ceremony.( It gives you time to get the house ready and not have the burden of a meal) Why don't you order a really nice cake,and some cookies and pastries. Serve with a nice coffeebar with flavored syrups and whipped cream.You can offer tea also. You could even put out some cordials/liqueurs. Get pretty paper goods, but use good tableclothes and fresh flowers. If you just concentrate on a few special details, you can keep it simple yet special and elegant. Also you might want everyone to write down a special wish or message that you can record as a video memory for your son, so that he'll( and you'll) always remember the special day.
If you want to keep it simple just do some appetizers and cake, but make sure you state it on the invite "snacks and cake" or people will expect a meal - make it an hour or two after church so that people will have time to go grab lunch in between and you don't feel stressed to get home and get the food out right away. I've been to tons of parties for communions, baptisms, etc... I honestly like the smaller more intimate ones as compared to the ones some people feel they have to have in a banquest hall with 200 people there!
Good Luck and Congratulations!
