One of the biggest decisions you’ll make while planning your wedding (besides saying “yes!” to the dress, of course) is how you’ll serve dinner. At Chateau Joli, we see both plated and buffet-style dinners all the time, and honestly — there’s no wrong choice. It all depends on the vibe you’re going for and what fits best with your guests and timeline. So, let’s break it down in real terms to help you figure out what’s right for your big day.
Plated Dinners: Classic and Elegant
If you’re dreaming of a formal, sit-down dinner where everything feels polished and refined, a plated dinner might be your best bet. Guests stay seated, courses are brought out one at a time, and the whole experience feels pretty luxe.
Why couples love it:
- It keeps things feeling elegant and upscale.
- Your timeline stays tight (no long buffet lines!).
- Guests don’t have to get up or wait for food.
- It’s easier to control portions and budget.
Plated dinners work great at Chateau Joli if you’re having a more formal reception or if your wedding has a black-tie or classic romantic feel. Plus, it looks beautiful in photos — think champagne toasts, candlelight, and a clean, symmetrical layout.
Buffet Dinners: Relaxed and Guest-Friendly
Want something more laid-back and interactive? Buffet-style dinners give guests the freedom to pick what they like and go back for seconds if they want. It’s more casual, but still totally wedding-worthy.
Why couples choose it:
- It offers more food variety (especially helpful for picky eaters or dietary needs).
- It’s usually more budget friendly.
- Guests can mingle and move around more.
- It works well with a more relaxed or family-style vibe.
Buffets are especially great if you’re having a more social, summertime wedding. Guests can grab their plates, enjoy the scenery, and settle in wherever they feel most comfortable.
Not Sure? Mix It Up!
Some couples go with a hybrid option — like a plated salad and dessert, but buffet for the main course. Others love a family-style service, where dishes are brought to the table and passed around, like a big holiday dinner. You’ve got options, and we’re here to help you figure out what fits.
At the end of the day, your wedding should feel like you. Whether you picture a white-glove dinner service or a warm, buffet-style meal under the twinkle of the chandeliers, Chateau Joli can make it happen. We’ve seen it all, and we’re happy to share what’s worked best for past couples — or brainstorm something totally new just for you.
Need help deciding? Come tour the venue and let’s chat about your day over coffee (or champagne–we don’t judge). We’d love to help you plan every delicious detail.
We sincerely hope to encourage couples to learn more about the value and importance of choosing a locally owned business when it’s time to book the perfect venue and vendors! We are thrilled to support wedding venue owners from around the country with a weekly shoutout in our blog. You can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
