How to Set Up a Buffet Table for a Party

A buffet-style meal can work well for a small group of loved ones or a large gathering of family and friends. No matter the size of the celebration, you want to ensure that the table will efficiently showcase the tasty fare you've prepared and allow your guests to move freely at the party. The buffet table should also display the event's theme in a way that tastefully accents the entrees, appetizers, and beverages you've prepared. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Position the buffet table in the center of the party space so guests can easily walk around the table to fill their plates with food.

2

Place plates and napkins at the left end of the buffet table. Guests can form a line from left to right when adding food to their plates. This keeps a steady "traffic" flow at the buffet table and prevents guests from bumping into one another.

3

Fill glasses with spoons, forks and knives. Place the glasses next to the plates and napkins.

4

Fill chafing dishes with the party's main courses. Arrange the dishes starting on the left and forming a line from left to right in the center of the buffet table.

If the celebration has a fiesta theme and you're serving tacos, dishes filled with warm tortillas, seasoned shredded chicken or beef, and refried beans allow guests to fill their taco shell with the fillings of their choice before adding the toppings.

5

Fill smaller chafing dishes or decorative bowls and dishes with side dishes that complement the main course. Bowls of shredded cheese, lettuce, and sour cream are fitting for a taco buffet, while chafing dishes of mashed potatoes, candied yams and hot buttered rolls complete a Thanksgiving-style buffet.

Chose dishes in colors that coordinate with the celebration's theme, such as burnt orange or cranberry red for Thanksgiving, and bright red and yellow for a fiesta-style party.

6

Sprinkle color-coordinated table confetti between serving dishes on the buffet table.

7

Place small vases at the corners of the table or in between serving dishes if space permits. Fill the vases with synthetic flowers in hues that match the party decor, as the blooms will continue looking festive throughout the party.

8

Place smaller additional accents on the table if you have room. Try using mini sombreros or horns of plenty to coordinate the party's theme.

9

Position a smaller beverage table as far away from the main buffet table as possible. This prevents spills and keeps guests from getting in each other's way. Place pitchers or bottles in the center of the table and glasses or cups along the border of the table.