Planning a wedding requires attending to many details, from selecting flowers to booking a venue and hiring the catering company. No matter how many people you're hosting, one of the most important choices to make is how you plan to feed your guests during the reception. Plated, sit-down dinners and buffets each have their pros and cons, but the decision ultimately comes down to the style and tone of the event, the available space, and personal preference. 

The Pros & Cons of a Buffet 

Buffet-style catering is popular for many reasons. It allows you to serve a wide variety of foods and gives guests the option to select what they want to eat and how much. Couples can set up food stations, allowing everyone to choose from a variety of entrées, sides, and desserts.

The major drawback to a buffet is that it's logistically challenging. It's easy for long lines to form as people fill their plates, and it's possible that some tables could finish their meal while others are just starting. Buffets can also present challenges to guests who have mobility issues, as well as families with young children. Before deciding on this option, consider who will be attending the wedding. 

The Pros & Cons of a Sit-Down Dinner 

Catering weddings with sit-down dinners are often seen as a more formal choice. If you want an elegant- and posh-feeling reception, a plated meal is a must. Serving your guests individually also ensures that everyone receives their food at the same time. This makes it easier to time aspects of the reception, such as toasts in between courses, to maintain the flow of the event. 

However, plated dinners have the disadvantage of limiting the entrée options. Most catering companies recommend offering several selections to accommodate different preferences, but if you have guests who are picky eaters or have strict dietary requirements, a plated dinner can be challenging. Unlike a buffet, this option allows for more accurate budgeting. The caterer can determine exactly how much food to buy based on your guest head count, which means there's also less potential for waste.

For a beautiful and chic barn wedding, consider hosting your big day at Jordan Hill Farm in the heart of Richmond, KY. This venue is nestled on 85 acres of picturesque countryside and offers an elegant atmosphere and delicious food that is sure to delight you and your guests. Call (859) 623-0807 to speak to a friendly team member to learn more about the venue and schedule a tour. You can browse their amenities and get to know the area by visiting their website.