Dining Styles Explained and Which One Is Right for You

When planning a wedding or event, the way your guests are served plays a big role in setting the tone. Whether you're dreaming of a long, relaxed lunch or a lively cocktail party, your dining style should reflect the kind of experience you want to create.

At Eden Catering & Events, we offer a variety of dining styles to suit different celebrations. Here’s a simple breakdown of our four most popular options, with some helpful guidance to find the perfect fit for your day.

Canapé Service

What it is:
Canapés are beautifully crafted, bite-sized dishes served by roaming waitstaff. Guests help themselves as they mingle, creating a relaxed and social atmosphere.

Why we love it:
This style is perfect for events where movement and conversation are central – think cocktail weddings, garden parties, or post-ceremony drinks. Canapés allow for a wide variety of flavours to be enjoyed in a casual yet elegant setting, with no need for formal seating.

Best for:
Cocktail-style weddings, engagement parties, networking events, or outdoor celebrations where guests will be on the move.

Buffet Service

What it is:
A buffet is a self-serve style where guests can choose from a variety of dishes displayed on a long table. It’s a relaxed and flexible way to dine, allowing guests to return for seconds (or thirds!).

Why we love it:
Buffets offer great variety and customisation. They’re ideal for feeding a large number of guests efficiently, and the self-service element keeps things easygoing and informal. It’s also a great way to cater for a mix of dietary needs.

Best for:
Family-style weddings, corporate celebrations, birthday parties, or any event where you want guests to feel at ease and well-fed.

Banquet Style

What it is:
Also known as share-style dining, banquet service features large, beautifully presented platters brought to each table for guests to serve themselves. Think abundant dishes passed around like a festive family dinner.

Why we love it:
Banquet dining creates a warm, communal atmosphere and encourages conversation. It strikes a lovely balance between casual and elegant, with generous servings and a real sense of abundance.

Best for:
Long lunch weddings, intimate receptions, or celebrations where you want guests to connect and linger over food.

Individually Plated (Alternate Drop) Service

What it is:
Each guest is served a plated main course, typically with two meal options alternated across the table. This is the most traditional and formal service style.

Why we love it:
Plated dining offers a seamless, polished experience. It’s ideal when you’re after a refined presentation and structured timing. Guests simply sit back and enjoy the service, with no decisions to make or lines to queue.

Best for:
Formal weddings, black-tie events, or occasions with a set schedule such as speeches, toasts, or entertainment.

Final Thoughts

Every event is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to dining. Whether you’re planning an elegant sit-down dinner or a laid-back afternoon gathering, the right service style can elevate your event and create an experience your guests will remember.

Still not sure which style is right for you? We’d love to help you decide. Get in touch or join us at one of our upcoming tasting events to explore the options in person.