The wording is a bit confronting, but I can totally share the sentiment behind it. We had a $120/head wedding reception because we really wanted a kick**** party, and we could afford it. But had our financial situation had been different, obviously we would have chosen more modest provisions, and if we had to - asked people to pay.

As for the quality - if you're paying less than $50pp, you won't get top class food. I could only imagine the comments if you were asked to pay that or more...

At the price we paid, I was VERY VERY annoyed at the people that had RSVP'ed & then didn't turn up (or buy us a gift in lieu!). Those very expensive (and delicious) dinners could have gone to some other friends that really wanted to go.

We asked for no gifts at our engagement (as it was at a bar & I didn't want to cart stuff home!) and then our guests past the hat around & doubled our tab! That was a great present!