Wedding Tip #5: Get the Dish on Dining Options

by NicoleC on May 14, 2012 in Nicole's Wedding Blog

Deciding which type of dining style best suits your big day is a difficult task. Traditional wedding go-ers may prefer a sit-down dinner, while the party type may enjoy a casual atmosphere with heavy hors d’oeuvres and killer cocktails. If there’s anything my fiancé Nigel and I have learned throughout the planning process, is that you can’t please everyone.

You need to assess your budget and strategically choose an option that best suits not only the majority of your guests, but fulfills your vision. It is your big day after all.

Once again, REAL SIMPLE weddings breaks down dining styles into four simple categories: 1) Sit-down dinner, 2) Buffet or food stations, 3) Cocktail party, and 4) Casual Barbeque. Page 108 of my so-called bride bible narrows down who should choose which option, who should avoid it, and what questions to ask. Genius!

My advice: Don’t choose one extreme or another. Arrange for salads to be served at the table, but entrees to be served buffet style. Other ideas such as giving a mini dessert as a take-away or organizing a candy bar can also add a fun twist!