I am throwing a 25th Anniversary Party for my Parents?!
Answers: There are 30 people coming, I am getting the main dish catered (chicken parm, ziti, garlic bread) and I have a cheese platter, small appetizer meatballs, tossed salad, rolls, a sheet cake, cookies, and brownies. I feel like this isn't enough, alot of the guest are offering to bring things, but I don't know what to ask for that would go with the meal, I figure I should have 1-2 more appetizer type platters, and maybe another dessert or 2. Any suggestions would be much appreciated.
The problem with Italian food is that two or three days later, you are hungry again.
How about some bruchetta to keep with the Italian theme? You could get some really kickin' crusty bread, a nice bowl of the tomato and basil to add on. You can also use the bread for olive tapenade and/or roasted peppers or even marinated eggplant. There is always an antipasto tray you can throw together quite easily, with salamis, olives, peppers, artichoke hearts, marinated mushrooms, etc. in addition to the cheese tray.
I think you got the dessert thing covered, but if you feel you need more, some fresh fruit would be a nice palate cleanser. Or some cordials in chocolate shot glasses are always nice.
having friend bring food is a good idea even if it don't fit the theme it can be a back up if you run out of food just say bring what every they like and let them know what you already have for the dinner so far they can figure out what to bring from there.
I think you're good with food.
But don't forget the important stuff like music, decorations, ambiance. I had a 25th anniversary for my parents and it turned out amazing. I had it at my grandmothers house, outside.. i rented a white tent with a couple of tables. I didn't have 'dinner' as it was a cocktail party but there were PLENTY of appetizers. I used sheer silver table clothes on top of a basic white cloth. I made two big bouquets of assorted flowers (mostly roses) for the ends of the appetizer table. I secretly stole pictures of my parents throughout their relationship (from the very beginning to the most recent pictures) and I had them enlarged to 5X7 and put in black and white.. i put them all along the cake i ordered for them.. I also enlarged a picture from their wedding. It was very beautiful and it was s surprise party so they were thrilled.
Your menu sounds great. I would just provide the main cake and a few appetizers along with all your great main and side dishes. Then have the guests that want to bring something provide some more appetizers and desserts. You know who'll step up and really add something to the menu and some people will just buy something but it is the thought. The main thing is having friends and family together to celebrate this special occasion. Cheese torte with sun dried tomato and basil pestos with crackers, stuffed mushrooms, marinated artichoke hearts and mushrooms. Shrimp cocktail, hot crab and/ or artichoke dip. Clams casino. Deep fried raviol with marinara dipping sauce.
that sounds good how you have it right now. I had a party of 33 people for my moms 60th and we had 3 med sized pizzas cut into appeitizer bites before the meal- which consisted of chicken Kiev-salad-mashed potatoes-and veggies, then dessert of cake. It was just enough for everyone without wasting dinner and being too stuffed from lots of appetizers.
bring out the cheese tray and meatballs before dinner, then dinner with salad, then dessert of cake cookies and brownies.
are you having some kind of pasta with the chicken parm I hope?
You have a great selection of food. If anyone wants to bring something, let it be a finger food, like a veggie tray, etc...
My children gave me a birthday I will never forget and it would work great for your parents anniversary. They put together all the pictures over the years like a a slide show, with the most appropriate music and it was on tape.
Technology is easier today and it is like an album with special remarks for the pictures over the years they have been married. Including the birth of their children and other important events you may have photo's of like at Christmas and other holidays. I can assure you the entertainment will out do any food you could prepare and a memento they will cherish for the rest of their lives! It takes some hard work and time but worth every minute.