Catered Reception: Buffet vs. Plated Dinner
When couples plan your reception dinner the question always comes up, do you want a buffet or a plated dinner? Here is the description of both:
Buffet Dinner- A buffet is a system of serving meals in which food is placed in a public area where the guest generally serve themselves.
Plated Dinner- A plated dinner is a system when the caterer and staff plate each entree and then serve to each guest.
Most couples choose the buffet because they believe its cheaper, and most of the time it is, but I would advice you check with your caterer. I have worked with caterer’s where the plated dinner is not that much more than the buffet. Chose the option that fit with your reception the best.
Two more options that are becoming popular to chose for your reception is food stations and family-style.
My favorite is the food stations, the food stations can be setup all through the venue with different foods at each station.
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Family-style is great for a couple that wants their reception to be more about family getting together and enjoying each other. It’s also perfect for a smaller reception, where all the guest can seat together at a long table, and pass the food to each person.
Whichever option you chose, just take into consideration which would work best with your reception.









