What should I serve at my wedding reception?

I'm getting married next August and am on a strict budget but don't want it to feel that way. Originally I was planning to have a local soulfood restaurant cater the buffet style dinner but my future sister-in-law offered to cook everything (shes an amazing cook that does all of the family events). I see the pros and cons of both ideas so please don't get into that, I just want some suggestions on what to serve if I decide to go with my sis-in-law. I want stick to your bones food and will most likely be serving an actual dinner and then appetizers a few hours later. What are some foods that can be for the most part made ahead of time and will still be great once reheated? I'm thinking roast or ham or something along those lines, my sis-in-law said maybe meatloaf. Ideally I'm gonna have a couple kinds of meats and like 3 sides plus a salad and cornbread/rolls. There will be lots of drinks so I need lots of good food to go with it. I don't want any of my guests going home hungry!