Is it tacky to have a potluck dinner for my parents 50th wedding anniversay?

Question

I'm starting to plan my parents 50th wedding anniversary party and I got some ideas off the internet. One that I read was to have a potluck and I just wondered if that would be tacky to ask guests to bring a dish for a potluck. Just looking for people's opinions. thanks!

Answer 1

Depends on the people coming... if your family is really close and you have a tight-knit group of friends who are helping put it together- then NO. If it's your affair and you are inviting random people to celebrate- then yes. I would only do potlucks with intimate people who can relate to the real meaning behind the celebration, it also allows the affair to be more intimate thus making it even more special. It's 100% up to you- because in reality, none of us answering will even be there... congratulations to your parents!!!

Answer 2

50 years means they got married in 1957-correct? Potlucks were even more popular in the 50's than they are now. Why not have a retro 50's potluck for 50 years theme and take away any notion of tackiness. Put something on the invitation like" bring a 50's style or any favorite dish to pass-fried chicken,beverages will be provided". If people call and ask what 50's food is tell them anything made with canned condensed soup like casseroles-also jello salads, meatloaf, relish trays, desserts made with boxed cake mix, boxed pudding mix,canned fruit or marshmellows.

Answer 3

It's tacky because you are inviting guests for a very special event. This is a type of event that guests will probably bring them a gift. This should be treated like a mini version of their wedding.

If the expense of this event is to much then hold an afternoon tea or a come and go where you serve appetizers and punch rather then a big meal and alcohol.

Answer 4

If its very casual, guests are all friends and family, I say not tacky. Each guest could be invited to bring a best dish and a joke or anecdote about the guests of honor. "Remember when Grandma's potato salad slid into the front seat on Grandpa's neck when he stopped the car?" It could be a really happy time for the you and the parents.

Answer 5

If you have a folksy - casual family and friends group, I think it would be a nice idea. Gives everyone a chance to show off their favorite dish as well as help out with the work involved in throwing such a party. A few bottles of wine would also be nice if anyone would ask!

Answer 6

I think if you do some of the more main dish items and ask others for sides and desserts, that would be fine. Even if others bring what might be called main dish is fine, but you should be prepared if people show with nothing or everyone brings string beans.

Answer 7

I don't think it's tacky. Think of all the loved ones you're inviting who are putting love into their dishes for your parents! And it won't be boring because not everyone eats the same thing...steak, chicken, fish. Standard catering fare. And think of the conversation! "This was my great aunt's dish from the time when...?" Or, "I know you've always loved this!"

I think it's a great idea!

Answer 8

I wouldn't... this should be a nicer affair. Like others have mentioned, take them out or have a nice dinner catered. Or.. a week before, you and your friends could make several pans of lasagna and freeze it. Lasagna is so easy. Then at the last minute you just need salad, drinks, coffee, bread and desserts.

Answer 9

Yes, I think it is tacky. You are talking about celebrating 50 years of marriage. You should go all out and make reservations at a nice restaurant or contact a caterer.

Answer 10

I don't think it's a good idea, unless you have brothers and sisters who would like to save money and do it all yourselves but DO NOT ask your guests to bring a dish.