Wedding Options: Serving the Meal

The food at a wedding is one of the most important aspects of the event. It's actually what most guests remember from weddings, so of course you want it to be memorable!

There are several options when it comes to the food for a wedding reception. There are different types of food and various ways for it to be served. The type of food served also coincides with the type of reception.

A casual wedding would usually have the food served buffet-style. Buffets are also appropriate for semi-formal and sometimes formal weddings. A buffet is a good way to go if you want to offer a variety of food options, and it is a good way to cut costs.

Photo by Rodolfo Arpia Photography

There are some innovative twists to buffets that have recently become popular in the wedding world. You can make a buffet of basically any type of food. A mashed potato bar is something that has been spotted at weddings.

Photo by 217 Photography

There can also be food stations, which is a very modern take on the buffet. Each food station will have an entree, and there will be a few for a variety of selection. Some examples are a pasta station, carving station, and seafood station. The stations can also feature different ethnic foods, such as sushi and spaghetti.

Photo by Joy Marie Photography

A new trend for buffets and stations is the dessert bar. Some feature just candy, with the guest filling up a bag or box as their favor. Some bars feature candy, cake, and other desserts, giving guests a large selection to choose from!

Via Amy Atlas Events, photo by Leanne Stamatellos

A fresh take on a more modern wedding is the cocktail and hor d'oeurve reception. This reception usually takes place at a time that would be too early for dinner to be served. The cocktail and hor d'oeurve reception can be formal, trendy, or a bit more casual. It allows you to be more creative and offer a variety of food. The hor d'oeurves can be set up buffet style or passed by servers. It's a great way to mingle with your guests and still have a great party!

Photo by Jennifer Schumacher Photography


Photo from TheKnot.com

Finally, the formal wedding reception with a plated meal. At this reception, guests have assigned tables, and it is a more elegant affair. The plated meal is served to the guests, and there is usually three or more courses served. It's nice for the guests, because they don't have to "work" to get their food.

Photo by Focus Photo Tahoe


Photo from Salted Butter

When it comes time to choose what kind of wedding reception and food you want to have, think about your own style. You want the food and drink that you provide to your guests to be of good quality. If they're going to remember the food the most out of any other aspect of your wedding, make it something to remember! You're essentially hosting a party, and you want your guests to enjoy it!