September 18th, 2009 | 
Author: We are getting invited to more and more "potlucks" lately. I was just wondering how you all felt about them?
Here’s my beef with them. I understand the need for a potluck with a 4th of July cookout and co-worker birthdays, etc. But I’ve been invited to these potlucks: kid and adult birthday parties, baptisms (parents didn’t even supply the cake!), Thanksgiving (we were asked to bring the cooked turkey) and wedding receptions (with a list of where the bridal party was registered too!).
I was raised to host your own party, if you couldn’t afford what you wanted a) simplify or b) don’t do it.
Also, what do you do when you have to leave the party? Take your platter with the food or leave the food with the host in another container? What if your food/drink hasn’t been used?
Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Posted in Wedding Cake Decorations
Hi first I want to state that I hear your frustrations on being over-invited to these type of events.
However I was brought up in an area where pot-lucks are the norm–& to do one, makes it easy on the host. BUT saying that–not for EVERY single type of event.
Mostly just large dinners that a group agrees on & never for a wedding reception–I agree: TACKY!!
I’d suggest that the next time you are invited to a pot-luck only go if you want to od something for it.
If you don’t, simply write a card & a small gift if you want to give one & drop off with a "I’m sorry I can’t attend".
Then move on! With big family gatherings that is different.
Allow for pot lucks & ask for a different dish each year–don’t get stuck with the Turkey every time just b/c others don’t offer–they may not think to.
Another option is to host a potluck with the group that continues to invite you to these things.
Then to suggest on each invite of what to bring saying that you will supply the paper plates, napkins & punch if they bring the rest. My husband & I have chosen to host a # of events in our group of friends often in this way.
Its not the best but we do it 2-3x a year & call them "bring your own eats" parties…
For the most part they go over well, for those that don’t want to bring anything–don’t get to eat lol or they don’t come.
Overall though, they are usually reserved for families or friends who are like your family type of events.