* Buffet is cheaper. Buffet dinner is usually cheaper than a plated sit-down because it requires less preparation time (imagine controlling 200 individual panels over a number of oppressive dishes). Plus, dinner buffet need significantly fewer operating personnel (1 server to 25-30 guests vs 1 server per 10-15 guests for plated or family-style dinner.)
* Buffet is easier to arrange. It is not necessary to keep your guests' RSVPs to gather with their choice of dinner entrance.
* Buffet offers more flexibility for your guests. With a buffet set up, you can bid more items to choose from. It also provides an excellent opportunity for your ethnic background to be included in the menu by including one or two items from your culture.
* Buffet is more relaxed. Want more informal and interactive atmosphere for your wedding reception, a buffet may be the right choice for you.
Things to remember:
* With a buffet dinner, people tend to have larger portions, more food than is needed. All professional caterer should know this and plan accordingly.
* One of the biggest disadvantages of a buffet is that your guests might have to wait in line for their food. Try the buffet tables to place, so they are accessible from both sides. For larger parties, consider arranging 2 buffet stations on both sides of the ballroom.
* For a buffet dinner, you have about 1 server per 25 guests. It is not usually included in the price of food so you should budget. Catering company calculates the total time (travel, setup, serving, cleanup, etc.).
* Do not assume that what you want, other people might as well enjoy it. Let your personal taste in the way while planning the menu for your wedding. For example, you would not want a 100% seafood menu to earn. Variety is the key. Make sure you have several options to choose from, so do not forget at least one vegetarian product to offer. Ask about special dietary needs and allergies.
