If this is the same one I remeber seeing a few days ago, the cost is because she is getting a third party to do the catering. I find it unfathomable myself. If I were cooking for the whole family, I would do it because I love them and it is a pleasure to do something that they will appreciate, the financial cost doesn't come into it. Yes I can say this from a priviliged position of wealth, but if someone is struggling with the cost or doesn't want to go through the work or hassle, then don't do it, that is a free choice, and if other people have a problem with that, then let them take it on. I would have thought most families would rotate the hosting if there wasn't one subset of the family who genuinely enjoys doing it. My sister and brother in law cooked for a large group for many years and invite people round afterwards, they do that because they enjoy doing the hosting and seeing family and friends together.
