Picture Thanksgiving dinner. You’re seated at a table with family and friends. Guests serve themselves from platters and bowls of food that are passed around the table. Conversation is lively as friends and family connect over a shared meal. Now imagine that experience at your wedding celebration.
Food by The Franklin of Soulard, Chef Culley Freese | Florals by Faith’s Florals
Walking into your reception space and seeing tables set not just with beautiful flowers and candles, but with beautiful food. Large platters of roast chicken drizzled with herb butter, bowls of vibrant seasonal vegetables, and colorful salads artfully arranged to catch the eye and awaken the appetite. Guests lean in, passing dishes hand to hand, pausing to admire, to serve, to share. That’s the magic.
“Couples who choose a family-style meal at their wedding are trying to get that feeling for their guests and give them a reason to interact. Having a conversation while passing food is a great way to get guests talking to each other,” says Casey Fechter, Director of Events for Olive + Oak Hospitality Group.
This style of service doesn’t mean every course has to be passed. Many couples opt for a mix, perhaps a plated starter to keep things neat and timely, followed by hearty mains and sides passed between guests. Dessert could be a self-serve station or artfully plated sweets, depending on your vision.
“You can offer more options than a plated dinner and you get interaction among the your guests,” shares Cecily Hoffius, co-owner of Ces & Judy’s Catering. “It’s a nice choice as long as you feel your guests will be comfortable with it.”
It’s an approach that works for many styles of weddings, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, and it makes the dining experience part of the entertainment.
Ces & Judy’s Catering
“The typical client is someone who wants to achieve that family-oriented feel to the reception. For them, the dining experience is an integral part of the evening, not just something to get through so they can hit the dance floor,” explains Bridget Bitza, Chief Revenue Officer for Butler’s Pantry.
Family-style also allows for more creative, elevated menus. Picture a whole snapper presented on a platter, roasted quartered chicken with crispy skin, or broccoli dressed with parmesan, pine nuts, and a drizzle of vinaigrette. “The food isn’t less fancy,” says Brad Bardon, Executive Chef with The Social Affair.
“In fact, family style gives us an opportunity to serve a wider variety of food than we could with a plated meal.” But it’s not just the menu that matters, it’s the table. A lush centerpiece is lovely, but with family-style service, the food IS the centerpiece. “Styling each platter and plate is a priority so the food actually becomes the centerpiece,” says Kelly Spencer, Founder of The Social Affair.
Practicality also plays a role. Rectangular or round tables can work, but there must be enough space for passing dishes. “If the food is the star, we expand your menu,” says Fechter.“ You may pass to the person next to you but you may also be passing dishes across the table,” adds Kara Bailey, Co-Owner of Bailey’s Restaurants. “Couples should keep that in mind when considering floral design and the overall tablescape.”
And yes, your guests will be full. “We know how to properly estimate the quantity of food needed for each table so couples can be confident their guests will have plenty of food,” assures Meredith Beck, Events and Catering Director for 612 North.
By the end of the meal, the clinking of silverware slows. Laughter grows warmer. Someone inevitably asks, “Who’s taking the last bite?”
Just like at Thanksgiving.
Family-style service isn’t just about what’s on the plate. It’s about turning your wedding meal into a moment, one where every guest feels like part of the story.
