Buffet-style is the only way for a budget brunch.

Yes. Buffet-style keeps costs low and stress lower.

When you have people over, the temptation is to make three different quiches, a fruit platter, mimosas, and a fancy cake. That’s where you blow your budget and your sanity. Pick one star dish — a big frittata or a breakfast casserole — and build the rest from cheap, easy stuff: sliced fruit, yogurt, bread, butter, coffee. Mimosas are just OJ and cheap sparkling wine. People care about the company more than the menu. Set everything out on a table and let guests serve themselves. No plated courses, no timing pressure.

Your friends will remember the conversation, not the garnish.