Easy recipes for a reception?

I have a budget of around $1500. I need to feed around 200-250 people, and I realize this is not a lot of money, but it's all I have. The function is for the Bid Day reception for the new members and their families. It is on a very hot day, and everyone is going to be scorching. It is a very exciting time, and I want the food to look and taste great. I want to go beyond the normal barbeque and cold cut sandwiches. If anyone has any ideas, that would be great. I will most likely be preparing this food the day/night before, and possibly that morning. Thanks so much!