You might be wondering, what is a family-style meal? We’re here to help 😜
Family-style meals have become more prevalent in recent years, and for good reason. This method involves large platters of your selected dishes placed on each table instead of individually plated meals. This allows guests to serve themselves while enjoying friendly conversation at the table. There are plenty of benefits to serving a family-style meal at your wedding, making it an excellent choice for couples who want to create a more communal atmosphere. At Green Mill Catering, we provide a wide range of delicious dishes so you can put together the perfect menu for your special day.
Why You Should Consider a Family-Style Wedding Meal
As you begin planning your wedding meal, you’ve got plenty of options. Each serving style has pros and cons, and it’s best to weigh the pros and cons for your big day. There are many benefits to choosing a family-style wedding meal. Below, we’ve listed some of them.
Enhanced Social Interaction
When dinner platters are passed around the table, guests are encouraged to chat and catch up. This creates an opportunity for your friends and family to eat in community with one another. It also means that everyone is served simultaneously without waiting for plates to be passed out.
More Variety
Family-style meals offer more options for guests to sample. When a meal is individually plated, guests get the same entrees and sides in the exact portion sizes. When served family-style, you can sample a wide range of options (and pass on the dishes you aren’t interested in).
Customizable Portions
When guests serve themselves family-style, they can control their portion sizes according to their preferences. This reduces food waste and is much more satisfying than receiving pre-portioned plates.
Inclusive Dining Experience
Family-style meals allow guests to make choices for themselves, making accommodating a wide range of dietary preferences, restrictions, and food allergies easier.
A Warm and Inviting Atmosphere
A family-style wedding meal creates a shared dining experience for your guests. This creates a warm and inviting atmosphere where everyone can celebrate and enjoy time together on your special day.
Things to Consider
Although a family-style meal is a great option for most weddings, you must consider a few factors. Ask yourself the following questions to make sure it’s the right choice.
- Do you have enough space? Family-style meals require tables large enough to accommodate serving dishes, plates, cups, and silverware for all guests.
- Do you want a formal wedding reception? Family-style meals are often perceived as a less formal option when compared to plated meals. Each couple must determine what type of serving style suits their vision best.
How to Plan a Family-Style Wedding Meal
So, how do you plan a family-style wedding meal? When you choose Green Mill Catering, we’ll schedule a tasting with you and your partner. Together, we’ll select a custom menu that aligns with your theme, season, and preferences. Once you’ve made your selections, it’s wise to inform your guests that the meal will be served family-style. This allows them to have clear expectations so the process runs smoothly.
Trust Green Mill Catering With Your Wedding Meal
Are you interested in learning more about family-style wedding meals? At Green Mill Catering, we’re here to make your big day the best and most memorable day of your life. Together, we’ll plan every detail so your meal experience runs deliciously smooth and guests talk about it long after their final bite. Contact us today to get started.