Pickle: Buffet vs. Sit-Down

You can't decide what to do for your reception. Do you have a buffet and let people pick what they want, or do you have a set menu with a sit-down dinner? You may be tempted to go with what costs less, but you should know a few things before putting down that deposit.

Photo Credit: Theknot.com

The Pickle: Would a buffet or a sit-down dinner be better for my reception?

The Solution: Consider your options. Ask these questions when considering a caterer:
What is the pricing? By the hour, by the head, by the food provided? Is there a minimum?
Does it include the work of servers? How much if it doesn't? How many would be needed for buffet? For a sit-down dinner? Does it cost extra for vegetarian plates? Food for vendors at a reduced price?

Then ask these questions to yourself:
~ Is my wedding formal, semi-formal? A more formal wedding would have the sit-down dinner, while the buffet allows for a more casual feel.

~ How much of my budget is allotted to my catering? If the food of your reception is one of your budget priorities, then a sit-down dinner wouldn't make you cry when you put down the extra dollars.

~ What food are you wanting to serve? If you are planning a dinner of food that isn't generally what people would eat, then you may be wasting plated meals and money. A buffet allows for people to chose what they want.

~ How much time do you have? Sit-down dinners take more time, while buffets can be come and go. This can make a difference on over-time fees. 

So, as you can see, it comes down to budget and what you are going for. All in all, either option can still have beautiful presentation. Always check portfolios to see how caterers set up their food.