Food is one of the things your guests will definitely remember about your wedding, and choosing the right catering style can set the tone for your entire celebration. As Wisconsin wedding planners, we help couples create the perfect atmosphere for their big day, and that includes selecting a catering style that complements your vision. Whether you’re dreaming of a formal sit-down meal or something a little more laid-back, there’s a catering style out there that’s perfect for your day. Here are the top three most popular wedding catering styles and some fun ways to make them your own.
Plated Dinners
Plated dinners are a classic choice that never goes out of style. Guests stay seated while servers bring each course to their table, making for a relaxed, no-hassle dining experience. It’s great if you’re looking for something a bit more structured and want everyone to enjoy their meal at the same time.
Pros:
- Creates a polished and organized flow to the evening.
- Keeps everything on schedule with courses served at specific times.
- Dietary restrictions are easier to manage when the menu is set in advance.
Cons:
- Typically costs more because of the extra staff needed.
- Can take longer to serve if you have a large guest list.
Pro Tip: Work with Blue Plate Catering, who’s well-known for beautifully plated meals and exceptional service. To make it extra special, consider offering two or three entree options so guests can pick their favorite. Think beef, fish, or a hearty vegetarian dish—or tailor it to your crowd’s tastes.
Buffet Style
Buffets are perfect if you want variety and flexibility. Guests can serve themselves from a spread of delicious dishes, which keeps things casual and lets everyone pick what they like. Buffets are a hit for larger weddings or couples who want to offer a little something for everyone.
Pros:
- Gives guests plenty of choices, so there’s something for everyone.
- Can be a budget-friendly option compared to plated meals.
- Great for accommodating different diets and preferences.
Cons:
- Lines can form, so planning for good flow is key.
- It doesn’t have the same sit-down vibe as a plated dinner.
Pro Tip: Team up with Saz’s Catering for a mouthwatering buffet menu. To keep things moving, set up multiple buffet lines or stations to avoid long waits. You can also get creative by theming your buffet—like a Mediterranean spread or Southern comfort food.
Family-Style Service
Family-style catering feels just like it sounds: warm, inviting, and communal. Large platters of food are brought to each table, and guests serve themselves and pass dishes around. It’s a wonderful way to encourage conversation and make your reception feel cozy and connected.
Pros:
- Creates a friendly, interactive vibe among your guests.
- Offers a variety of dishes without requiring a trip to a buffet.
- Perfect for couples who want a mix of casual and formal.
Cons:
- Larger tables are needed as dishes take up space.
- Minimal tablescape designs are required to accommodate space for dishes.
Pro Tip: Tall Guy and a Grill does an amazing job with family-style service, making sure everything runs smoothly and looks beautiful. To enhance the experience, think about serving dishes that reflect your heritage or favorite comfort foods.
Adding Personal Touches
The catering style you choose is just the starting point. Adding unique extras can make your wedding menu unforgettable and give guests a peek into your personality as a couple. Here are a few ideas to add something special to your day.
If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to feed your guests, Flour Girl & Flame’s wood-fired pizzas are a great choice. Their mobile oven cooks up fresh pizzas with a variety of classic and unique flavors. Guests will love watching their pizzas being made right in front of them. With their laid-back yet tasty approach, Flour Girl & Flame is a great way to keep everyone satisfied and happy throughout the evening.
Grazing tables from Madison Cheese Boards are a fun and easy way to keep your guests satisfied throughout the event. Filled with a variety of cheeses, cured meats, fresh fruits, and delicious snacks, these spreads are perfect for people to snack on at their own pace. Madison Cheese Boards takes care of the details, curating a beautiful and tasty spread that suits your style.
For a true Wisconsin touch, you can’t go wrong with cheese curds from Curd Girl. They serve up fresh, squeaky curds made from locally sourced milk, and you can even take it up a notch with deep-fried curds. Add some tasty dipping sauces like ranch or garlic butter for an extra kick. Whether it’s for cocktail hour or a late-night snack, these cheese curds are sure to be a crowd favorite and give your guests a real taste of Wisconsin.
Make It Your Own
At the end of the day, your wedding menu should reflect you as a couple. Whether you go for a plated dinner, buffet, or family-style meal, adding those personal touches will make the experience truly special. Interactive food stations, specialty catering, and fun extras like late-night snacks or dessert bars are the cherry on top. Planning all those details can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to help! As Wisconsin wedding planners, we work with some of the best vendors in the business to make your wedding unique. Let’s talk about how we can bring your vision to life.
