If you want to set the buffet table at your next family gathering then you have come to the right place. Here you will find out what changes you can make to ensure you’re catering for everyone, so you don’t have a thing to worry about.
Vary the Height
With centerpieces, you would vary the height, so you should do the same with your buffet table. It’s a great way for you to make sure that your display is appealing to the eye, and it adds a bit more dimension to your setup too. Make sure that you elevate the dishes that aren’t too messy, as the last thing you want is to have sauces spilling over onto your tablecloth. Some people like to stack books underneath the tablecloth so that they can create elevation, and this is a great way for you to add another dimension to your display.
Clear Beginning
Guests should always know where the buffet starts and of course, where it ends. Keep all of your plates and dishes at one end of the table where possible. If you do this, then you will be able to stop any traffic jams from happening. If you have a big group then try and pull the buffet table away from the wall a bit, so you can have people go along either side.
Identify the Dishes you Want
This is so important. When developing your menu, you have to make sure that you are considering any vegan and vegetarian alternatives. This is a great way for you to make sure that people are not going to have any allergic reactions. Label the dishes if you can and be sure to include any important ingredients. This could be peanuts, for example. This is a great opportunity for you to show off your creativity. Your labels can be as simple or they can be as colorful as you’d like, not to mention that you can dress them up as if you are having a themed party. If you want to put something easy on, then why not look up how to make egg salad?
Be Mindful of Drips
Place some smaller plates near every dish so that your guests have somewhere they can put all of their utensils. Now may be the time for you to put a small plate under any beverage dispensers you have, if they have a tendency to drip.
Save Utensils
You don’t want your guests to be fumbling with napkins or utensils, as they are filling up their plates. If possible, you need to keep these at the other end of the table if you can as this will help everyone to get the food they want without compromise.
Position Everything Strategically
Place any items that have a smaller quantity near to the end of the table. Guests tend to fill their plates early on, so if you do not have as many portions of a single food item then it’s great to place it at the other end of the table. If you can do this, then you will soon find that it stays on the table for longer.