Junior Rasmussen
Family-style dining at weddings is becoming increasingly popular. It involves serving food at the table, where guests can help themselves and pass dishes along. This style of dining is said to create a social and conversational setting, allowing guests to interact and serve themselves without having to get up and go to a buffet. However, it can be challenging to manage, with potential issues around timing, cost, table space, and centrepieces. When choosing a table for family-style dining, it's important to consider the size and shape that will best accommodate the number of guests and the amount of food being served. Long banquet-style tables are a popular choice, but it's crucial to ensure there is enough space for platters and centrepieces.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Table shape | Rectangular, square, or round tables are all options. Round tables may be better for family-style dining as it can be awkward on rectangular tables. |
| Table size | Common sizes are 8' long x 30" wide rectangular tables or 5' square tables. Long tables may require larger venues. |
| Table decorations | Minimal table decorations are recommended to leave space for serving dishes. Small centrepieces or bud vases are recommended. |
| Tableware | Renting enough platters and bowls can be expensive. Consider the weight of tableware, especially for older guests. |
| Food temperature | Food may get cold by the time it is passed around. |
| Food timing | Food may not reach all guests in time, especially those at the end of the table. |
| Food quantity | There may be lots of leftovers, or not enough food for all guests. |
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What You'll Learn
Table shape and size: Rectangular, square or round?
When it comes to choosing a table shape and size for a family-style wedding, there are a few options to consider, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some insights to help you decide:
Rectangular Tables:
Rectangular tables are a common choice for weddings, with a standard size of 8' long x 30" wide. While this option can accommodate a good number of guests, it's important to carefully consider the table decorations and serving platters or bowls. Space between dinner plates can be limited, and rectangular tables may not leave enough room for centrepieces or additional serving dishes. Passing dishes down a long rectangular table can also result in food getting cold before it reaches the end, as some guests have experienced.
Square Tables:
Square tables, such as the 5' option mentioned, offer more space per guest than rectangular tables. However, accommodating these larger tables may pose a challenge depending on your venue size or configuration. Square tables may require adjustments, such as increasing the size of a tented reception area. It's important to consult with your venue and caterer to decide if square tables are a feasible option.
Round Tables:
Round tables are often favoured for family-style dining as they facilitate passing dishes around more easily than rectangular tables. They also provide a cozier and more intimate setting for guests, especially for smaller weddings. However, centrepieces can still be a challenge, as they may take up too much space, and there may be limited room for serving dishes.
Ultimately, the decision on table shape and size should consider the number of guests, the venue size, and the desired atmosphere. While rectangular tables are standard, square and round tables can offer unique advantages for family-style dining, creating a warm and conversational setting for your wedding reception.
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Table decorations: Minimalist or garlands?
When it comes to table decorations for a family-style wedding, there are two popular approaches: minimalist or garlands. Both styles can be elegant and romantic, but they offer distinct advantages and considerations.
Minimalist table decorations emphasise a "less is more" approach. This style is often chosen to create a sleek and elegant atmosphere without cluttering the table with excessive decorations. Minimalist decor can include simple bud vases, votives, and crisp white dinnerware. It is also a cost-effective option, as it requires fewer flowers and decorative elements. This approach is particularly suitable for family-style dining, where multiple serving dishes will be on the table, leaving less space for ornate centrepieces.
Garlands, on the other hand, offer a lush and whimsical aesthetic. Garlands can be made from fresh greenery, flowers, or eucalyptus, bringing an organic and natural touch to the tables. They can be draped across the tables or hung from above, creating a romantic garden-party vibe. Garlands are often paired with vintage or rustic elements, such as wooden tables, mismatched candles, and eclectic dinnerware. However, it is important to consider the cost and time involved in creating garlands, as they can be more expensive and time-consuming than expected.
When deciding between minimalist and garland table decorations, it is essential to consider the overall wedding theme, venue size, and configuration. For example, long banquet-style tables can be beautifully accented with garlands, while round tables may offer more space for serving dishes with a minimalist centrepiece.
Ultimately, the choice between minimalist and garland table decorations depends on your personal preference and the specific details of your wedding. Both styles can be tailored to fit your theme and create a memorable and enchanting atmosphere for your guests.
To achieve a minimalist look, consider purchasing or renting flowers and centrepieces from cost-effective sources such as Fiftyflowers.com, Shein, or Trader Joe's. For garlands, fresh greenery garlands can be sourced from Costco, and you can even insert sola wood flowers to avoid wilting.
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Tableware: Heavy or light?
When it comes to tableware for a family-style wedding, there are a few factors to consider when deciding between heavy or light options. Here are some insights to help you make an informed choice:
First and foremost, the style and theme of your wedding should guide your tableware selection. For instance, a black-tie wedding calls for fine china with intricate patterns, gold or silver trim, and traditional designs. Rustic or vintage-themed weddings might opt for earthenware or stoneware plates with wooden or stainless steel flatware for an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere. Modern minimalist weddings could feature solid-coloured porcelain or stoneware with clean lines and minimal ornamentation. The tableware you choose should complement the overall aesthetic of your wedding.
Another factor to consider is convenience and cost. Heavy tableware, such as china or porcelain, can be more expensive to rent or purchase and may require additional handling and cleaning fees. On the other hand, light and disposable options like bamboo, paper, or acrylic tableware are more affordable and convenient, especially for large weddings or outdoor settings. They eliminate the need for dishwashing, making cleanup easier.
The food being served at your wedding is another important consideration. Heavy tableware is often associated with formal dining and multiple courses, ensuring a sturdy and elegant presentation. If your wedding features a buffet or family-style service, lighter tableware might be more practical. Lighter options like bamboo or acrylic can be surprisingly durable and are suitable for serving a variety of dishes.
Ultimately, the decision between heavy or light tableware depends on your wedding's style, budget, and practicality. Heavy tableware exudes sophistication and elegance, enhancing the dining experience. However, light tableware options offer convenience, affordability, and sustainability without compromising aesthetics, especially with the growing availability of elegant disposable options. Remember to consider the overall dining experience, including appropriate cutlery and glassware for each course and drink, to ensure a memorable meal for your guests.
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Portion sizes: Enough for seconds?
Portion sizes are a key consideration for family-style wedding dining. While this style of dining offers a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, it also presents challenges when it comes to ensuring sufficient food for seconds.
One of the challenges of family-style dining is the lack of portion control. Without set portions, guests may serve themselves larger amounts than anticipated, leading to insufficient food for seconds. To mitigate this, it is recommended to have extra food on hand to account for potential over-serving by guests. This may result in leftovers, but it ensures that all guests have enough to eat and the option for seconds.
Another factor to consider is the timing of food refills. As caterers need to refill platters, there may be instances where guests have to wait for their favourite dishes, or some may miss out on certain dishes altogether if they are not replenished quickly enough. To address this, it is advisable to have additional serving platters or bowls to reduce wait times and ensure that all guests have equal access to the food.
The weight and size of the platters are also important considerations. Large, heavy platters can be cumbersome to pass around, especially for older guests. Opting for medium or smaller-sized platters can improve the overall dining experience and ensure guests of all abilities can comfortably serve themselves.
Additionally, the shape of the table should be taken into account. Round tables tend to work better for family-style dining as they facilitate the passing of dishes more easily than rectangular tables.
Finally, the number of dishes served can impact portion sizes and availability. Offering a variety of dishes, including proteins, sides, and salads, allows guests to customise their plates and cater to different dietary preferences or restrictions. However, it is essential to ensure that there is enough of each dish to satisfy guest preferences and allow for seconds.
In summary, when planning portion sizes for family-style wedding dining, it is crucial to anticipate guest behaviour, ensure efficient food refills, consider platter size and weight, select appropriate table shapes, and offer a variety of dishes to satisfy different tastes and dietary needs. By planning ahead and ordering extra food, you can ensure that your guests have enough to eat and can comfortably enjoy seconds.
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Cost: Pricier than plated or buffet
Family-style dining at weddings creates a social, conversational setting, with food served by guests at the table. However, it can be pricier than plated or buffet dining.
Firstly, family-style dining requires more serving staff than a buffet, which increases costs. Secondly, larger tables may be needed to accommodate the platters, which take up a lot of space. This could mean renting larger tables, increasing the cost. Thirdly, there is the cost of renting the platters and bowls themselves. Each table will need a minimum of three platters for passing: one for protein, one for vegetables, and one for starch. Additional platters may be required to reduce wait times and ensure timely table service. For example, nine platters per table (six on the table and three to replenish) multiplied by 15 tables would require 135 platters. The average platter rents for $10, so that's $1,350 just for presenting the food. Finally, family-style dining may result in more leftovers, increasing costs.
There are ways to reduce the cost of family-style dining. For example, consider the size of the platters and whether smaller serving bowls might be more suitable. Smaller dishes will be easier for guests to pass around and may reduce the need for additional serving staff. Also, discuss your requirements with your caterer, who may be able to offer cost-saving suggestions or alternatives.
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Frequently asked questions
Long tables are perfect for facilitating conversation among your guests, especially for those who haven't seen each other in a long time or are meeting for the first time. They are also excellent for creating a warm and intimate atmosphere.
Long tables may not leave enough space for large platters of food and centrepieces. You may need to opt for smaller centrepieces and ensure you have enough serving dishes.
Round tables are better for serving food family-style than rectangular tables as it can get awkward with the latter.
It's best to opt for smaller centrepieces or bud vases to leave lots of blank space for platters on long tables. Garlands are not ideal for this style of service.
