SHOULD I HAVE A PLATED SIT-DOWN DINNER OR A BUFFET DINNER?

One of the first things a couple has to decide on is what kind of food service they will have during their wedding reception. The most debatable question, “should I have a plated sit-down dinner or a buffet dinner?”

The Founders Inn wedding packages offers 5 hour reception which includes a choice of a 4-course plated dinner or a 3-entrée buffet. While there is controversy that one style of service cost more than the other, there is no price difference with The Founders Inn wedding packages.

There are pros and cons for each type of service but keep in mind when choosing your style of dinner,  the dinner service should stay within 1 hour to 1 ½ hours to allow time for your other wedding activities. 

The first option is having a buffet dinner which is recommended for any number of guests with a minimum of 25 people. Guests are invited to the buffet to make their dinner plate. Buffets are always a good option for those picky eaters and as well for those heavy eaters. Buffets are hassle free without having to send menu cards for pre-selected dinners. Please note the buffet is not intended for "all you can eat". The Chef will carefully formulate and portion to each guest serving. In addition, left-over food cannot be packed and removed from the event space keeping in accordance with the health and food state regulations.

The advantage of a plated dinner is that it provides an elegant and upscale dining experience. Unlike the buffet, your guests will be served at their table. While a plated dinner is more formal, it will also require more effort from you. Menu selections must be determined 4 days prior to your wedding day and table place cards must indicate each guest entrée selection. Be prepared to contact guests who have not responded by the RSVP due date to ask for their menu choice. Lastly, beware for the “Chatty Cathy”. This person can prohibit dinner service as the Founders Inn’s etiquette is to not serve the next course until the entire table is finished.

When making your decision, there is no right or wrong answer. While both dinner styles are different, ultimately, it is your preference as the bride to which style will best reflect you and your dream wedding. Bon Appetit!

Venue Planner versus Wedding Planner

There are a million little details that go into your special day. You cannot be in two places in the same time so hiring a wedding planner will only keep you from catching the dreadful bridezilla virus.

 

It is common to have a venue planner and a wedding planner; however, it is important to recognize the difference between each.

 

At The Founders Inn and Spa, each bride will be assigned an experienced venue planner. The venue planner handles all venue related details, to include food, set up and final invoices.

 

So now you are wondering what’s left for my wedding planner to do? Your hired wedding planner will stay by your side from the beginning to the end. This person will plan the intricate details of your wedding and coordinate your schedule of events throughout the day.

Responsibilities for both the venue and wedding planner will over-lap such as the set-up of your reception and both may be liaisons to your vendors.

 

The bottom line; couples need both a venue planner and a wedding planner. Both planners should coincide to efficiently work together as the goal is to make YOU, the bride, happy. 

 

Happy Planning!!!