Buffet Table Decorating Ideas

Setting up a buffet can be a hassle free way to entertain a large crowd of guests. The buffet table should look attractive and appealing to the guests, so along with the food menu it's also important to decorate the table creatively. It might seem difficult to come up with something unique each time you throw a buffet party.

Having a theme for your party can be an aid to decorating your buffet table. You can have a particular theme like a pool side party or a theme based on color. If you are celebrating an occasion or event, you can decorate the buffet table as per what the occasion calls for.

Choose round-styled tables or long tables on which the food can be arranged comfortably. You could choose a table cloth of a particular color and use contrasting colored napkins. For example, if you are having a new year party you can use shades of blue with a combination of silver. You can also make use of ribbons, flowers, mirrors, etc. to decorate the lower half of the table cloth.

Arrange the plates and cutlery in a way that they are easily accessible to the guests. You can wrap the cutlery with the napkins and seal them with a fancy ribbon. They could be placed at the end of the table so that they are picked last.

You can place the food platters on different levels on the buffet table to make it appear visually attractive. You can do this by placing the food platters on sturdy plastic boxes, stacked books or inverted pots covered with linens. Make sure that the buffet table does not appear cluttered.

Placing a centerpiece could be visually pleasing to the guests' eyes. It also enhances the overall look of the buffet table. Make sure to use the correct amount of lighting to highlight the centerpiece. Arrangement of the party food should be done in a systematic but attractive manner starting with the appetizers and salads followed by the main course and side dishes, and finally desserts.

Make use of different shapes and types of serving dishes and glasses to serve the food and drinks. The dinnerware can be in combination with the color theme of the buffet party.

To add to the decorative value, use candles placed in glass, candle holders with colorful marbles or floating candles along with flower petals in bowls. You can also make use of different types of flower arrangements and table top fountains. Vegetables, ice and fruit carvings can be used to enhance the visual appeal. A chocolate fountain will be a great hit with the guests, especially with kids.

Remember to keep your buffet table simple yet attractive and it will surely earn you the 'Wow' you would look out for.