Yesterday, I hosted a Boston Marathon party for one of my co-workers who was running the Marathon. My apartment is on the route. The company was kind enough to pick up the tab. As a result we had the party catered with BBQ. The total catering bill was for a little over $500. There was more than enough food to serve 30 people so it was less than $20/head. We ended up feeding a little over 20, and having massive leftovers. While I supplemented my own personal holiday party wtih some catering, this was the first time I’ve hosted something that was completely catered. Besides in this case I had catering that I would be unable to do myself. I do not have the facilities to make BBQ ribs….

I have to say, it was money well spent. It’s a lot of easier for me to say that since I’m not actually footing the tab, but even if I were I might still be inclined to agree. Hosting is expensive even when you make all the preparations yourself. In this situation, there was no way I had time to make actual preparations given the party took place in the late morning and early afternoon. Had I actually tried to cook as much food as I got catered, I’m sure it would’ve cost me close to $200. Basically I paid $300 for labor, but sometimes paying that premium is well worth it. After having this last event completely catered, I realize how much more enjoyable hosting could be. Often times when I host something, I’m usually making last minute preparations. This time I had none to make. It was great. Still caterting is expensive, and I’m not sure I would do if the bill were left to me.