Can You Have a Wedding without a Sit-Down Meal?

Formal plated dinners at weddings might feel common, but common doesn’t mean required! There are plenty of alternative options that your guests will love. Full dinners can quickly blow your budget, especially when you have a lot of guests. Having a different type of food experience not only shakes things up for guests who are attending weddings every weekend during wedding season, but also gives you a chance to save some money on those per-head costs.

That said, keep in mind that guests will expect some sort of food at a wedding, especially one that occurs around dinner time. In your invitations, make it clear whether you will have a full dinner, heavy appetizers, light appetizers, dessert only or any other options for food. This is especially important for guests who might need to bring a backup snack for health reasons. If budgets are tight, consider moving your celebration to “off hours” to save some money on a lighter meal alternative.

Additionally, don’t forget about having a place for everyone to sit, even if they won’t be eating at their tables. Include a mix of lounge areas, high-tops, and regular tables with chairs. You can even have the venue staff bring over chairs from the ceremony area for more seating.

Alternatives to a Sit-Down Dinner

Passed Appetizers

Appetizers are perfectly acceptable, even for a dinner time wedding. If you are serving apps, be sure to have a few options so that there’s something for everyone, regardless of their personal tastes. Aim for heavier hors d’oeuvres that will leave your guest feeling like they had a complete meal. Talk with your caterer about balanced options.

Parfait Buffet

A build-your-own parfait buffet is perfect for a brunch time wedding. Include multiple flavors of yogurt, plenty of fruits, and some hearty granola. Pair this with an eggs and bacon station for a full breakfast time meal.

Smoothie Station

You’ve heard of omelet stations or waffle stations, but both of those require sitting down with a fork and knife. Take the idea of made-in-front-of-you food with smoothies instead, something that your guests can take on the go with them. We imagine this would be perfect after (or even before!) a morning ceremony.

For at Home Guests

If you’re including a virtual wedding as part of your event, don’t forget about the at-home guests, especially if you are streaming part of your reception. Let them know what’s on the menu and provide them with a recipe so they can make their own version at home.