Cocktail Hour suggestions?

Cheese, fruit, veggies, little sandwich quarters? Some kind of trays from your local grocery store? You need to check your caterer's contract though - they may not let outside food alongside theirs.

Wings are always a good appetizer. I would also agree with things like cheese, fruits, and veggies. You could also do a shrimp appetizer but that can get expensive.

What can your caterer provide for that $400? Will it be enough food for all your guests for that hour?

Chips, salsa, guac. You can't go wrong and people will love how casual and snacky this is! You could embellish with maybe mini taquitos or something else to add some substance. Obviously this depends on if this matches your formality and dinner menu, but for me this was a quick and easy way to provide an affordable and yummy app.