Comprehensive Guide to Wedding Catering Options

Choosing the right catering style is one of the most important decisions you will make for your wedding. Your choice largely depends on the style of wedding you are planning. Is it formal? Is it semi-formal? Outside? Inside? Your choices on formality and setting will dictate the style of food you have on your wedding day. Understanding the pros and cons of each option will help you plan your perfect day. In this guide, we explore the most popular wedding catering options and the benefits of each choice.

Understanding Wedding Catering Basics

What Is Wedding Catering?

Wedding catering is simply providing food and drinks for your guests on your special day. It includes everything from buffet set-ups to plated service. Different styles suit various themes, budgets, and guest sizes. Your catering choice creates the tone of your event, whether formal, casual, or rustic. The amount of food you choose to offer will largely depend on the length of your day. If you are getting married early, then usually a small bite like canapes will be offered to guests alongside a welcome drinks service.

Factors Influencing Catering Choice

When deciding on your wedding catering styles it's important to consider the following factors:

• Your overall budget

• The venue’s limitations and facilities

• Guest preferences and dietary needs

• The level of formality you want to create

Exploring Popular Wedding Catering Styles

Plated Meals

A plated service is generally considered to be the most formal of wedding catering. This style of service requires numerous members of staff to serve and clear throughout the service. It's a classic choice for formal weddings. This style of service is refined and organised, perfect if you want elegance and formality. One thing to consider with plated service is the length of time it takes to serve and clear. With large weddings, it's important to consider the length of service, especially if you are opting for a multi-course. Be mindful to allocate enough time for the food service and plan speeches accordingly. 

Sharing Boards and Family-Style Service

Sharing boards are hugely popular thanks to their relaxed, friendly vibe. Large platters of cheese, charcuterie, BBQ meats or regional dishes encourage guests to connect as they share food. Family style service involves serving large platters placed in the middle of the table with accompaniments for everyone to help themselves to.  It works well in rustic, outdoor, or modern settings where interaction is encouraged. This approach also offers visual appeal and variety.

BBQ as a Wedding Catering Option

BBQ catering has become increasingly popular, especially for outdoor and rustic weddings. It offers a relaxed approach to wedding catering and can help alleviate some costs as it requires fewer staff to serve and clear. BBQ pairs perfectly with casual, relaxed themes. It creates a warm, inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy hearty, flavourful food. It’s an excellent choice for country barns, garden parties, or beach venues.

BBQ Pros and Cons

Advantages of BBQ Catering

• Casual and relaxed option that encourages mingling

• Budget-friendly option thanks to fewer staff required

• Flexible and versatile menu options appealing to dietary restrictions

Disadvantages of BBQ Catering

• Can get messy; sauces and open flames may cause spills.

• Not suited to formal or black-tie wedding events.

• Very much weather dependent!

Expert Tips

• Plan ahead and hire marquees or tents to create covered areas

• Plan the service style; do guests approach the BBQ? Or do you require staff to serve?

• Make sure you ask the caterer about their set-up; is it a gazebo? A van? 

Sharing Board Pros and Cons

Advantages of Sharing Boards

• Encourages guest interaction

• Attractive and impressive 

• Offers variety and diversity, great for catering for different dietary needs

• Simplifies logistics and reduces serving time for caterers.

Disadvantages of Sharing Boards

• Difficult to control portion sizes

• Larger guest numbers require careful planning and more boards.

• Cross-contamination can be a concern, especially with allergy-sensitive guests.

Expert Tips

• Speak to the caterer about offering different boards to cater for different dietary needs

• Don’t forget to plan your table decor around the boards and side dishes

• Confirm with the caterer if they provide everything: boards, tongs, spoons 

Plated Meal Pros and Cons

Advantages of Plated Meals

• Elegant presentation creates a high-end dining experience.

• Precise control over portion sizes ensures all guests are satisfied.

• Easier to accommodate special diets with advance notice.

• Perfect for formal or luxury weddings aiming for a refined look.

Disadvantages of Plated Meals

• Higher costs due to staffing and extra equipment.

• Service times can extend, impacting your wedding timeline.

• Reduces guest interaction during the meal phase.

• Less flexibility for last-minute changes or additions.

Expert Tips

• Manage timing carefully to ensure meals are served promptly.

• Offer multiple menu options to cater to different tastes.

• Communicate dietary restrictions clearly to the catering team well in advance.

Making the Right Choice for Your Wedding

Choosing the right catering style depends on your theme, guest list, and budget. For a formal black-tie event, plated meals often shine. Casual or rustic weddings may lean toward BBQ or sharing boards for a more relaxed vibe. Think about your guest demographics; younger crowds might enjoy interactive options, while older guests may prefer traditional plated dinners.

Collaborate closely with your caterer. Share your ideas and request tastings or sample menus. Seeing options in action helps avoid surprises on the big day.

Conclusion

Each catering style has its pros and cons. BBQ offers a relaxed, hearty experience but may not suit formal settings. Sharing boards promote socialising but need careful planning. Plated meals give a classy feel but come with higher costs. The key is to match your style with your wedding theme, guest preferences, and budget. Always prioritise guest enjoyment, dietary needs, and logistical ease.

Don’t forget to discuss options with professional caterers. Tasting options and clear communication make your wedding dining memorable. Your perfect catering choice will make your big day unforgettable.

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