Buffett Party Table Decorating

You can decorate buffets for visual appeal and arrange for convenience.

Buffet tables are typically decorated to fit a specific occasion. Effective buffet table decor should serve not only to lend a decorative quality to the party atmosphere, but should offer functionality as well. While there is no single right way to decorate a buffet table, practicing functional and aesthetically pleasing buffet table decor can help ensure that your buffet table presents the food in a pleasing and efficient manner.

Instructions

1. Place the table where guests will be able to line up and both sides, then cover it with a tablecloth suitable to the color theme you'll be using for your buffet table decorations. For Christmas, a red or green cloth edged in gold might work. A buffet table for a Thanksgiving Day feast might be brown, tan or even gold. Avoid using an all gold tablecloth unless your overall decor will be fancy.

2. Place napkins, silverware and essential condiments at the beginning of the table. If your buffet table has a particular holiday theme, consider placing these items in a suitable holder that matches the theme of your buffet.

3. Arrange foods down the sides of the table, typically in twos, with one dish on either side of the table. If you have a main course, or star attraction food, place it directly in the center of the table, about halfway down. Serve this main dish in a decorative server. Silver, china and other expensive serving dishes are appropriate if you have fancy table decor. For themed buffets, choose a serving dish that matches the theme.

4. Place finger foods, cold foods and items such as olives, pickles and cheese on stacked trays. Consider using a tray that rotates, easily giving guests on both sides of the table access to the items without having to lean around to look.

5. Place flowers and candles in the middle of the table, between the food dishes. Seasonal flowers and candles can add a nice decorative touch to your buffet table and are pleasing for guests to look at as they serve themselves. Ensure that you purchase items with muted fragrances to keep the natural aroma of the food.

References

• Dot Com Women: How to Decorate a Buffet Table
• Divine Dinner Party: Easy and Practical Buffet Table Setting Tips