Buffet style service for your wedding or event
The style of food that you choose for your wedding or event can be a big decision that determines the whole flow of the night. Whether you are choosing a particular style due to budget, style preferences, or the overall flow of your event, we are here to walk you through a few styles of food that we see often; and discuss how they may best work for your event.
Buffet
Let’s start with a southern classic - buffet! Just about everyone in the south has been to a buffet style wedding. It’s the most popular - and for good reason. Buffets can offer a wide range of selections for guests and can be an overall crowd-pleaser.
Photo by: Caitlin Steva Photography
What do I need to know about buffets at Ravenswood?
Reception Seating
If you have this style of food, you will want to have a seat for everyone at the reception. Buffets typically have large plates to accompany the amount of food they offer. This will mean that guests cannot stand to eat their plates and will need a designated spot to sit.
Reception Food Costs
While many people tend to think that buffet service is always the most cost effective option - there could be reasons why it will not be much cheaper than other styles:
When caterers price out a buffet some will increase the cost of food on a buffet if guests are serving themselves. This is because guests tend to take more food than they would if it was served, which causes caterers to have to bring a sizable percentage of overage.
Ask your caterers if their price changes if the buffet is served and not self served - you might be surprised to find that it can be cheaper to pay for the staff fee than it is for the extra food. Some caterers also require it.
When providing buffet style food you will need a minimum of 1.5 times the number of plates per guest to account for guests going back to get seconds.
Photo by: CK Photo
Buffet Locations
Buffet style service is easy to do both inside and outside of the house. When placed inside we commonly see them inside the blue or red rooms for the easiest flow. When outside we commonly see them under a tent, or on our porches. A few things to think about when making your decision on location:
You do not have to leave additional space under your tent for buffets and lines if it is inside the mansion.
Caterers can get to buffets easier inside to replenish food since it’s closer to the kitchen if it is inside.
It minimizes the issue of bugs and temperature control issues when inside.
Putting the buffet inside means guests have a further walk to get their food.
Guests will need more direction on getting food if it is inside, as they will not be able to see it from their seats.
Photo by: Allie Chambers
What about other food service options?
Thanks for following along in our three part series about food service options! In our next post, we’ll be discussing plated meals. Stay tuned to see your options!
Want more information for your event?
Contact us now and we’re happy to answer any questions you have about hosting your wedding or event at Ravenswood Mansion!