Wedding Dinner Buffet - Advantages and Things to Keep in Mind

Here's the question: is buffet set-up tacky for a wedding reception? Some people think it is, but the reality is that more and more couples opt for a buffet style dinner for their weddings. Why? The advantages are obvious:

• Buffet is cheaper. Buffet style dinner is usually cheaper than a plated sit-down one because it requires less preparation (imagine arranging 200 individual plates vs. a few chafing dishes). Plus, buffet dinner needs significantly less wait staff (1 server for 25-30 guests vs. 1 server for each 10-15 guests for plated or family style dinner).


• Buffet is easier to arrange. You don't need to collect your guests' RSVPs with their choice of dinner Entree.


• Buffet provides more flexibility for your guests. With the buffet set-up, you can offer more items to choose. It also provides a great opportunity to incorporate your ethnic background in the menu by including one or 2 items from your culture.


• Buffet is more casual. If you want more informal and interactive atmosphere for your wedding reception, buffet style might be the right choice for you.

Things to keep in mind:

• With the buffet dinner people tend to have bigger portions, so more food will be required. Any professional caterer should know it and plan accordingly.


• One of the main disadvantages of the buffet style is that your guests might have to wait in line to get their food. Try to position buffet tables so they can be accessible from both sides. For larger parties, consider arranging 2 buffet stations on each side of the banquet room.


• For a buffet dinner you will require approximately 1 server per 25 guests. Usually it's not included in the price of the food, so you need to budget accordingly. Catering company will calculate the total amount of time (travel, set-up, serving, clean-up, etc.).


• Don't assume that whatever you like, other people would enjoy as well. Don't let your personal taste get in the way while planning the menu for your wedding. For example, you wouldn't want to serve a 100% seafood menu. Variety is the key. Make sure you have a few options to choose from, don't forget to offer at least one vegetarian item. Inquire about special dietary requirements and allergies.