how to do food stations at a wedding receptionhow to do food stations at a wedding reception

On-theme containers, signage, cutlery and tableware (if required) will help make the space look festive, and adding height to your food station will create some extra visual impact, so consider getting some cake stands, display stands, cutting boards or trays. Here are all the pros and cons to think about. You can call your food what ever you want. Enter wedding food stations, a delicious trend that's infinitely customisable - you can go fancy with sushi or oysters, or hark back to a simpler time with some nostalgic treats from your childhood. Ireland is home to some of the best seafood in the world,so what better way to treat your guests than with a delicious oyster bar? Again, youll want to keep all of the above in mind for food ounces, but remember to be mindful that your guests may be generous while dishing out their own meal. This is a simple station that is easy and can satisfy many. [FAQs], Gem Fish Vs Barracuda: A Friendly Comparison (Include Tips, How To), What To Serve With Salad As Main Dish? ^As long as there is seating for 80% of the guests!? This will help guests make informed choices and avoid any potential allergies. Simply place in pretty vessels and provide handy bags for your guests to fill to their heart's content. Consider having a grazing table at the wedding reception. From late-night snacks to a traditional wedding meal, food truck wedding catering makes a fun addition to any celebration. ", On the invites, I'd just say, "Cocktails, stations and hors d'oeuvres immediately following the ceremony.". Nutrient Share with your guests to collect your wedding photos. Pull off a dessert reception, cocktail party, wedding brunch, or whatever style you choose. From classic rock ballads to modern-day pop hits, these wedding slow dance songs are perfect for swaying on the dance floor. Nobody is restricted to their own space. They are roaming the entire wedding reception area. Doesnt a Bump and Run party sound more inviting? Interactive food stations allow your guests to customize their fare to fit their preferences, making it all but guaranteed that your guests will be raving about the food at your wedding. Thank you so much for sharing what you've experienced. Wedding Reception Seated Dinner Alternatives Make sure to coordinate with your venue to ensure that the food stations fit within their guidelines and regulations. In fact, food is an amazing opportunity to personalize your big day with favorite dishes and cuisines that are most meaningful to you. Boring. She also rented some furniture that was on the lawn. Fish Itinerary Trip If so, then yes seating is necessary. Since seating charts are often for the caterer to know who gets which entre, you can assign people just to a certain table or forego a seating chart altogether. How do I convey this to everyone? Buffet-Style Wedding Reception: Everything You Need to Know - Brides Added bonus: Vegetarians and vegans can skip meat dishes and fill up on accompaniments. So I'd do that plus a few. Other than that, no. Guests were enjoying . It all depends on whether you want your guests to sit and dine or take a bite and move on to the next station. LOL. Share with your guests to collect your wedding photos. Start with a selection cheese in a variety of textures soft, firm, aged and blue and milks cow, goat, sheep. They can fit within any wedding theme or style. Imagine the taste of delicious, warm, mashed potatoes on your wedding day. A perfect little light snack that's easy to eat on the go, popcorncan be served at any time of the day from post-ceremony, to pre-dinner or as a late-night treat after a few dances! Our venue seats 200 and we are expecting just over 100 so space will not be an issue. Raw Bar A raw bar can be as elaborate as you want it to be based on your favorite shellfish and your budget. In this post, we wanted to get you started with a few of our all-time favourite food station ideas. It can be a combo of lounge seating, traditional tables/chairs, and hightops with stools, but otherwise it's going to be a clusterfxck. We also went to a wedding that was more cocktail style and had a blast. And so will yours!! Have a look at our list of our recommended wedding cake suppliersto see some of the gorgeous creations they can whip up. Makes sure they are sitting with people they know or you feel would have something in common. Now, for the sweet part of a wedding stations food menu. While your caterer will likely follow some of the same guidelines outlined above for salad, sides, and entres, they'll also have to account for larger portion sizes that can result from guests . Photo by Kreativ Photography via Junebug Weddings. Eating Olive Oil Outside will have round tables and inside will have small and large tables along a banquette with high top cocktail tables down the center of the room. Besides seating we'll have numerous high tops, just like at a cocktail party. So grandma might just have to stand and eat?? I really liked the flow of the reception. If you're not particularly skilled with a bag of flour, look to established donut peddlers likeThe Rolling Donutor Offbeat Donut Co in Irelandor Krispy Kreme or Doughnut Time in the UK. Updated Nov 23, 2022 Want to provide cold, refreshing drinks for an outdoor summer wedding ceremony? Always be sure to consult with your catering company and theyll be able to get the numbers squared away just right. A traditional dinner of chicken, potatoes, and vegetables is one of the cheapest food options. I think having a lounge area will be a good idea. Stand up cruising tables are really a hit. With some planning and creativity, you can execute the perfect food stations at your wedding reception. BBQ Food Station There are specific barbecue styles across the Midwest and South so a BBQ Food Station at a wedding cocktail hour can incorporate a range of rib recipes and sides, including Texas, Memphis or Kansas City ribs (there are other regional recipes in addition to these), baked beans, coleslaw, cornbread, biscuits, collard greens, potato salad and pickles. They have experience with setting up and executing food stations and can take care of all the details. These wedding drink station ideas are a great way to supplement the bar during your cocktail hour, wedding reception or at the start of the ceremony. I appreciate the cocktail atmosphere, but hate the idea of carrying my purse, drink, food, and napkin and eating standing up. It's a totally different vibe than assigned seating at tables for 10.and it's great! Typically we do also pass hors doeuvres. It'll be great. People are more food aware and avoid some foods by choice or because of dietary restraints. Recipe Donut station; where guests can choose their own toppings. It is the beginning of the reception portion of the wedding. Mac & Cheese Bar Probably the yummiest of all comfort foods, a Mac & Cheese Bar may be the most popular cocktail hour food station. This makes guests feel free to move. Cat It makes so much sense on so many levels. You could always spike the milk, and create White Russian cocktails to pair with the cookies. They are mobile. Warning: this post may cause mouths to water! I appreciate the opinions though. Food stations are the tools that let people mix, said Sabrina Hocker, wedding planner. I would think by not assigning seats, any friends, that may also be introverts or may not know many people there, would be in quite an awkward place. The shift to food station weddings is summed up in three points: What changes socially? During the cocktail hour, many couples choose to serve a variety of bites for guests to enjoy as a pre-dinner starter. As long as there is seating available for at least 80% of your guests, the evening will be fine. Though you can offer the same amount of food regardless of the format you choose, food stations offer more opportunity for menu variety and unique presentation. A sign or DJ announcement when guests enter the reception space can help make sure everyone knows what to do. Also, consider having multiple stations to prevent long lines. So tastes of the two families were similar. Dont be afraid to get creative and have fun with the food stations. As someone with disabilities, standing for long periods of time is just not feasible. Cocktail hour is the period of time between the ceremony and dinner. We were at a wedding this fall that had food stations. Think mini-sized fan favorites like beef sliders, shrimp cocktail shooters, spring rolls, fruit skewers, and so much more. Get the answers to these questions before you sign on the dotted line. We've decided to have heavy appetizers coupled with food stations. If you're having one of these food stations, professional chefs and servers are a must, and timing is crucial - you don't want raw seafood sitting out in the sun for 45 minutes because you miscalculated your wedding timeline! Seafood bars are always crowd pleasers. A real blessing for the people drinking alcohol.. Pretzel Bar You can have large soft pretzels or pretzel nuggets on display with plenty of sauces to enhance their flavor. Consider including both vegetable and seafood sushi options. Pie When we serve hors doeuvres by themselves, some people fill up on them because they are hungry, and some because they really dont know what comes next. Photo by Michelle Walker Photography via The Knot. But I wouldn't both mentioning anything in the invitations. Regional Food Stations. Dont be afraid to shake things up by adding in a few adventurous options like kimchi, sauerkraut, sprouts, guacamole and pineapple. How many guests are you having? A buffet gives guests the freedom to make their own plates according to their own preferences. You can either ask a caterer about creating the pizzas for you, or hire a wedding food truck likeDave's Wood-Fired Pizza in Ireland or Woodley's in the UK. Ladies, has anyone been to a strolling reception before who can share pros and cons? Mingling. Breads can be toasted or not, but have a few plain and flavorful options, such as garlic bread and focaccia. Also, think about the theme of your wedding and incorporate foods that fit the theme. The pizzas can range from classic Margherita to a white Bianca, and with an assortment of toppings from vegetables to meats. On the fence about having a cocktail-style wedding reception? "Each station can have its own dcor and feel almost like it's incorporated as part of the overall vision of the reception, as part of the dcor, instead of just a long table of food," says Parekh. Nor do you need to (and you know how I love my seating charts.) You're not trying to hammer tables of ten together; it sounds like some tables will be two couples, and the banquettes sound like fun. Instead use smaller tables, high and low. From salad bars to seafood stations, youve got plenty to choose from. Now, there's another option that's threatening to overtake the buffet in terms of popularity, and that's the food station. wtf. The flour and corn tortillas were home-made and cooked on a comal, a smooth, flat griddle used to heat tortillas, toast spices, sear meat and much more. Entres are typically the star of any meal, so you'll want to be sure your guests receive a portion fit to satisfy. Can you have your DJ announcing something like 'please continue to enjoy the multiple food stations throughout the evening'. Also, think about the theme of your wedding and incorporate foods that fit the theme. They allow guests to customize their dishes. Here, we're decoding the differences between food stations and buffets. You can hire your own candy floss machine from companies like The Pick and Mix Factory,Fun FoodsandPopcorn Ireland or, in the UK fromSweets For My Sweet,Candy QueensandCandy Floss World. Make your bar menu more refreshing by adding a watermelon cocktail featuring everyones favourite summer fruit. Searching for a wedding caterer in your area? You get to decide how you want to set up your food truck wedding catering. By: Kristen Klein. Cocktail hour is the perfect time for guests to mix and mingle while enjoying delicious food, drinks, and entertainment. A) it gave people a place to put their bags, shoes, jackets b) it gave everyone a seat C) it allowed everyone to sit during speeches and dances instead of awkwardly standing d) it allowed for the DJ/DOc to dismiss tables for the buffet portion. Grilling Event consultants can help determine the optimal setup, but popular layouts put stations in the corners and tables in the center of the room, which draws people out to . Subscribe to get special offers, free giveaways, and once-in-a-lifetime deals. For decades, the wedding buffet was the more casual alternative to the traditional seated dinner: They're interactive, more varied, and offer more room for customization than a standard three-course meal. The venue is partly outside and partly inside. However, before customizing your dream meal, it's important to establish exactly how much food to serve at your wedding, in order to keep your guests full and happy (not hangry). Updated Aug 08, 2022 The wedding vows are done, dinner is overguests will be itching for dessert next to keep them energized on the dance floor. Make-your-own taco station. Begin typing to search, use arrow keys to navigate. It can also lead to a more structured evening as guests focus first on eating, and then on dancing. 17of 30. An American treat which everyone can get on board with, s'mores are a combination of Graham Crackers (malted milk biscuits to us lot! I don't care for the idea. Exactly How Much Food to Serve at Your Wedding Check out Glorious SushiandMichie Sushi in Ireland, or Roll With Me or The Sushi Chef in the UK, anddon't forget the chopsticks! Information Brownies, cookies, mini cheesecakeswe're getting hungry just thinking about the options. Find wedding inspiration that fits your style with photos from real couples, Sit back and relax with travel info + exclusive deals for the hottest honeymoon destinations, To unblock this content, please click here. Education Australia Wedding Food Stations - A Better Way to Present Reception Food However, hiring a catering company can take the stress off of you and ensure that everything is executed smoothly. JUDITH RAE PHOTOGRAPHY by Maddy Sims Updated Jun 09, 2021 We'll always appreciate a great cocktail bar, but some of our favorite bars actually serve food. Health Find wedding inspiration that fits your style with photos from real couples, Sit back and relax with travel info + exclusive deals for the hottest honeymoon destinations. at weddings all around the globe. Wedding Reception Food Station Ideas. 2. Food station ideas for weddings can include a wide range of options that guests can shuffle through as they please. Action stations allow guests to decide when they want to roam around to the stations and eat. Consider having a separate beverage station or hiring a bartender to serve drinks. Ordering wedding cake is often a more straightforward approach, with one slice of cake needed per guest. Cake table by The Cake Cuppery | Photo by Paula O'Hara via One Fab Day. 1. I honestly think that if it's what you and your FH want then it's perfect! However, planning and executing food stations can be a challenge. We suggest using fewer traditional tables and chairs. My FH and I elected to have a strolling reception for 170 people. You know all your guests. Think about the flow of your reception and where the food stations will be located. We highly recommend delegating this job to a trusted bridal party member or friend - just do a dress rehearsal at home and take photographs to give your volunteer, along with a list of all the items for your station, so they know exactly what they're doing! And if you're doing a mix of big tables, little tables, casual seating, it really is impossible to do a seating chart. Just keep in mind that guests won't get fed quite as quickly or simultaneously. "People can come and go as they please, if they want to walk around and chat with other guests or dance," says Parekh. After the ceremony perhaps you have a champagne toast and hors doeuvres. "If you just want to dance and you don't want the food portion to linger, it'll be a faster way," says Parekh. They have a reason to leave one conversation and start another. It's worth checking if your venue or caterer can heat the pies for you, and prepare custard to serve them with for ultimate cosy vibes! Are you asking yourself, Is this more like an all hors doeuvres meal? Not at all. Find out why they are rapidly gaining popularity. Consider adding one of these childhood favorite wedding food station ideas to your cocktail hour. I would still provide a seat for everyone, it doesn't mean they will sit in the whole time but it does give them a place to put their stuff and sit if they need to. Rustic Pizzas A pasta station may sound and even look delicious, but its hard to eat Spaghetti Bolognese or Fettuccini Alfredo neatly, especially when youre standing. Wedding Food Stations vs. Buffets: An Expert Breaks Down the Differences Consider including veggies, shrimp and chicken that is slightly fried in a light tempura batter on separate plates or cups. However, if you're serving one cohesive meal-Parekh uses a rehearsal dinner barbecue as an example-or hosting an especially large crowd, then a buffet is often the easier and more manageable option. I understand your concept and think it sounds different and fun.but if people get tired from dancing and just want to sit for a little bit, they might not be able to. Food "Food stations are the new buffet-a little bit trendier and more modern way to do it." I had a seat for a little while and mingled the whole time before I knew it I had 4 glasses of wine and was ready to let loose but I went home instead. I would still assign tables. 29 Wedding Food Stations For a Unique Reception We've decided to have heavy appetizers coupled with food stations. Again, what you're describing is idyllic, but when the food comes out, people usually make a mad dash for it all at once no matter what it is b/c let's face it we're all vultures at a cocktail party. Southern Comfort Food Station. If you love autumnal eats, then adding a few pumpkin dishes to your wedding menu is an absolute must. What is your plan? "Visually they see the line building for the buffet and they feel like they have to get in now or they're not going to get food," says Parekh. Ask your caterer if you can have one or two sushi chefs behind the table making custom rolls for those who dont want the ones available. We have a full post on grazing tables that's spilling over with inspiration, and also features a handy guide to creating one yourself. After a couple drinks, I would be happy anywhere. Food trucks are the fun way to feast. Anyone do food stations?? | Weddings, Wedding Reception | Wedding How to Have Food Stations at Your Wedding Check out this years best local pros, chosen by couples like you. So the seat for every caboose is crucial. Mingling. Photography: Photography Anthology. I'd be kinda pissed if I went to a reception and there was limited seating. They work well as a DIY project - maybe your Granny makes the best apple tart on the face of the planet or your pal's lemon bars can't be beat! 79 likes, 7 comments - Paean Wang | So Happi Together (@sohappitogether_pae) on Instagram: "Rich jewel tones against the Maui ocean backdrop. Lay out corn and flour tortillas, pico de gallo, queso fresco, shredded lettuce and all the other necessary fixings. Food stations, however, are usually scattered around the room, which encourages guests to go back and forth between eating and dancing and to explore the entire reception space. [FAQs], How To Keep Ants Away From Cat Food [Step By Step], How To Reheat Crab Legs In Air Fryer [Step By Step], When Can I Drink Alcohol After Wisdom Tooth Extraction Reddit? Photo by White-Klump Photography via Style Me Pretty, Photo by Leeann Marie Wedding Photographers via Pittsburgh Magazine. ?. Before you set your heart on a wedding food station, there are a few things to consider: It's important to mention here that all food stations are not created equally! Culinary Capers Catering and Special Events. Yes, you will need to provide utensils and plates for the food stations. 25+ Interactive Food Station Ideas | BridalGuide Gone are the days of two entrees and a salad. They are a great way to offer guests a variety of food options and create a fun, interactive atmosphere. "We recommend a standard three-tier cake for 100 guests and adding an extra sheet cake for each additional 50 guests," he said. Amy Cakes created these espresso chocolate confections, proving there are several ways to reinterpret the drink on your wedding day. Here are a few traditional dishes that have been transformed to fit your wedding cocktail hour. It's strolling in that we have 3 tapas food stations, high top tables, and open seating for 80 people (aside from parents, grandparents, and elderly family). What is the cheapest option for food at a wedding? Mustards, melted cheese, BBQ sauce, chipotle dip, Nutella, beer and cheddar dip are some tasty options. From breakfast-themed bars to appetizer stations to dessert buffets, here are some of our favorite ideas. Do you expect people to stay the whole time? From late-night snacks to a traditional wedding meal, food truck wedding catering makes a fun addition to any celebration. delete Accommodating both you and your guests may seem like a daunting task when it comes to food selections, however we have a few wedding snack ideas that will ensure all attendees are accounted for when it comes to the wedding menu. Consider offering a variety of desserts to please all tastes. Work with your caterer and stationer to create themed paper cup holders that complement the weddings theme. "Couples who are looking for the option of not being stuck at a table all night like that, because it gives you a chance to get up and interact with other people.". Food Stations: 18 Exciting Ideas to Make Your Mouth Water Tip: if youre doing a brunch wedding or post-wedding brunch, turn your bread bar into a bagel bar and bolster it with add-ons like lox, cream cheese and jellies. Turn your wedding into a fiesta by erecting a DIY taco bar in your reception hall. Food stations are a popular trend for wedding receptions. On the details card state please join us for cocktails, heavy appetizers, and food station reception. What ends up happening is certain people save seats instead of doing the mingling you think will happen. When it comes to family-style service and figuring out how much food to serve at your wedding, having some extras of everything on hand is always a good idea. Guests have the ability to bump into new people and get to know them. Do you have any suggestions--all high tops or more seating, lounge areas?? "Lots of weddings that go to midnight are now offering a late-night snack, which ranges from a nice charcuterie board to chicken and waffles," Jeremy Michalski said.