Let’s talk the best (& one of the most important!) parts of a wedding-the food! Yep, we’re talking all about wedding meals. The different types, how to orchestrate them and trends we’re seeing.
First, let’s talk basics. There are 3 main types of wedding meals: buffet, plated or stations. We see all of these at weddings, and there is no right or wrong way to approach your specific wedding meals. A buffet allows guests can pick what they would like to eat based on the selections you’ve made, while a plated meal is served directly to them at their seat. Stations are a newer trend we’re seeing, and a more fun option where there are different themed stations that your guests can pick what they want from each. It isn’t uncommon to have stations during your cocktail hour while you serve a buffet or plated meal during the reception! With any of these options, it’s important to think of how many courses you’re going to have and the presentation of each. We see couples choose to have a plated salad with their meal, then allowed their guests to continue to be served or stretch their legs by getting up to head to the buffet.
One of the biggest things we cannot stress enough is how you are going to notify your guests of their seats/tables before the meal even begins. And, depending on the wedding meal type you choose, this can affect this detail as well! A simple seating chart or escort card display where it lists the guests’ names and their table numbers is perfect for a buffet and allows your guests to choose their own seats once they arrive at their table. If you are choosing the plated option, there is a bit more work involved for you, the host! You can still have a seating chart, to let guests know which general direction to head, but they will need to have a place setting assigned to them once they arrive at their table. This will need to have some type of indicator on it, letting the catering team know which guest gets which wedding meal type.
You might be asking how to choose your wedding meals. Well, that depends. Budget plays a big factor into this decision, along with aesthetics. Talk with your venue and/or catering professional on different menu options and choose what would be best suited for your wedding style and guests’ tastes. We always recommend the best catering options to our clients because food is probably one of the only things that your guests will remember after the wedding is over!
Whichever type of wedding meal you choose, make it something that reflects you, the couple, and your styles! If you hate green beans, don’t have them on your menu. This is also an opportunity to get creative with the little pretty details such as menus or place cards. We love seeing what is created by some of our favorite paper professionals to incorporate the meal indicators or seating chart into the overall decor.
