Are you going to an event? Does the flyer read ‘BYOE?’ What does that mean? This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this acronym.
Meaning
Are you heading out to an event this weekend? Did you check the flyer to see what’s available when you get there? Many parties and large outdoor events don’t provide any catering or concessions for attendees. Check the flyer and look for the term ‘BYOE’ in the copy.
If you see ‘BYOE’ anywhere on the flyer, it stands for ‘Bring Your Own Everything.’ So, what does that mean? The event will have no concessions or facilities for food, drink, and comforts. So, if you’re going to an event in the park, you’ll have to bring food, drinks, chairs, and an umbrella to keep the sun off you.
Typically, ‘BYOE’ refers to food and drinks not being provided by the event or your host. If you’re hosting a small get-together and you don’t have the cash to supply everyone with food and drinks, text them BYOE with the invite, and people will know they have to make their arrangements before arriving at your place for the event.
Example Usage
“We’re going to the event this weekend, and the flyer says ‘BYOB.’ What does that mean? Does it mean we have to bring everything ourselves?”
“If you’re coming over this afternoon, BYOE. I’m short on chairs and umbrellas, and you’ll need your own booze and food.”
“The flyer for the event says it's BYOE. We better make sure we make a checklist to ensure we take everything with us.”
“I’m going to invite the fellas to watch the game on Sunday. I’ll tell them it’s BYOE, so you don’t have to worry about preparing any food or drinks for them.”
Origin
The expression ‘BYOE’ has unknown origins. It’s part of a subset of acronyms used by event managers and hosts. The term's first appearance in the Urban Dictionary was in March 2020. Language experts are at a loss to explain the origin of the acronym, but some believe it started to appear on flyers promoting events in the 1990s.
Phrases Similar to BYOE
- BYOB.
Phrases Opposite to BYOE
- Fully catered.
What is the Correct Saying?
- BYOE Bring Your Own Everything.
Ways People May Say BYOE Incorrectly
Some people may confuse ‘BYOE’ with other acronyms like ‘Build Your Own Empire.’ However, ‘BYOE’ is among the many acronyms people use when planning events.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase BYOE
You can use ‘Bring Your Own Everything” (BYOE) when creating an invitation to an event you’re hosting that won’t have any catering. BYOE reminds people that you’re not offering food or beverages at the event, and they should make plans to bring them themselves. You’ll often see ‘BYOE’ on flyers for large events.
If a flyer says ‘BYOE,’ you should assume there is nothing available on site. You’ll have to bring everything you need yourself. From food and drinks to chairs and umbrellas, take it all. There will be nothing available at the event venue.