How to Arrange a Buffet Table at a Wedding Reception
One of the highlights of any wedding is the reception, complete with the great company, music and, of course, great food. One way to showcase food easily and affordably is arranging a buffet table. This method presents food in an eye-catching manner, which follows a simple organizational pattern involving colorful decor, elevated plates and two-sided dishes, making any buffet table appealing, engaging and ready to be devoured.
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Things You'll Need
- Table
- Tablecloth or decorative fabric
- Cutlery (knives, forks, spoons, napkins)
- Plates
- Food
- Decorative pieces (flowers, candles, vases, etc)
Instructions
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Set out a long, wide table. Because buffets showcase a variety of food items, generally an 8-foot table is advisable. But, this may also need to be longer or shorter depending on the number of reception guests.
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2
Space the table at a designated point in the reception hall. This is generally close to the kitchen because you'll need to make it easy to continuously exchange and replenish the food.
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3
Set a tablecloth on the table. The tablecloth should be engaging to the eye and may even coordinate with the wedding colors or theme. Keep colors bright and use a variety of them, as opposed to dull tones, such as gray or one-toned tables, which can be boring and unappealing to a buffet.
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4
Place and organize the food platters. Beginning with the plates, stack two rows of plates at the front of the table, followed by a bowl of salad, soup and pieces of bread, which have already been cut up. The main dishes, such as meat and fish platters, should be next, followed by side dishes, such as vegetables, pasta and rice. Additionally, make sure the displayed food is garnished. This doesn’t have to involve intricate décor, but should look appealing and set a dish apart. Some unique garnishes include lettuce leafs, parsley, flowers and fresh fruit.
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Place every dish on each side of the table. For every dish on the table, there should be a corresponding one on the other side. This will enable guests to have easy access, avoid traffic and may allow food supplies to last longer.
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Use risers on a buffet table to showcase different dishes and create additional space. Place an elevated dish in the center and create different heights around it. Create additional space by elevating food with sturdy crates, books or boxes, which you cover with a fancy piece of fabric or cloth. This is specifically ideal for desserts, such as elevated and tiered cakes.
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Fill in additional space with accent pieces, such as flowers, plants, vases, candles, streamers, fresh fruit trays and other decorative pieces. This creates a nice and lasting effect on any buffet table.
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Place spoons, forks, knives and napkins at the end of the table. This position makes it easier for guests to pick up food without having to balance cutlery as well.
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Tips & Warnings
Put drinks on a separate table to avoid spills
Keep any chafing dishes set back from the edge of the table if you are expecting any child guests.
References
- Photo Credit some appetizing food at banquet table image by Aleksey Kondratyuk from Fotolia.com
