Posts Tagged “plated meals”

2009 seemed to bring a fun new trend for many of our wedding receptions – pre-set salads with buffet service.  Many wedding clients sometimes go back and forth on what type of service to provide for their guests’ dinner.  It is a myth that a plated meal is always less / always more expensive than a buffet service — but more about that in another post.

One way to have a higher level of service without breaking the bank is to offer a pre-set salad followed by a dinner buffet.

Pre-set salad can be in a vessel – like a martini glass as well as a traditional plate.

Lobster Martini Salad

Caesar Salad Martini

Hearts of Palm Salad by A Catered Affair

Avocado, Spinach and Daikon Radish Salad

Pre-set Salads

Garden Salad with Beet Curls

A pre-set salad allows the guests to find their seat and relax for a moment.  Once they have finished their salad, they are then welcome to mingle and visit or go straight to the buffet – they choose how to complete their meal.  The client does not have to incur lots of additional fees for additional waitstaff – because it is preset.

Obviously, this level of service is less formal than a fully served meal but a little more service than just a buffet.  We want to help our clients find the best balance for their guests and their budget.

Buffet Station

Clients want different service styles for different types of events.  Sometimes spacing in the event venue does not allow for the square footage needed for buffets and their footprints – and plated meal service is necessary.  Sometimes the client wants to share a higher level of service with their guests – and plated meal service is necessary.

table setting for dinner service

Plated Dessert Ideas by A Catered Affair

getting ready for plated dinner service

Buffet dinner parties can be very versatile — allowing for a wide range of experiences.  Guests can enjoy thematic events, specialty buffet stations and interactive food experiences.

Sandwich Station for a Tiffany Blue Sweet 16 Event

Creole Catfish Appetizer Station