Are charger plates appropriate for my cocktail reception dinner?

When I think cocktail reception, I think waiters walking around with little bite-sized items, and very little in the way of seating or tables that would have chargers on them.

Are you saying you're having seating, would like to have chargers, but are only serving cocktail sized food items?

I think you should go one way or the other - ie, no need for chargers or much seating if it's a cocktail affair, OR, do a proper sit-down meal.

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It will be more like stations, not passed, but it will be substantial. Sliders, kabobs, mini tacos, etc.

I'm leaning towards not having chargers, bc it doesn't really make sense, but then I'm struggling to find something to fill the space on the tables.

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What about candles and floral decorations instead then? I suppose you could use chargers under each of the plates they use on the food stations.

Do chargers ever make sense?? Haha. They are purely decorative


Do what you want, but I think there are better ways to spend your money

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You're so right.... it's settled, I'm going in a different direction. Thanks ladies

View Quoted Comment I agree with this. We had a friend buy charger plates for her wedding and let us use them for ours. When I realized they are purely for decoration and would add to our servers list of things to do, I was like hell na. My husband and I are against using them because to use they don't make sense, they serve absolutely no real purpose, and they just make more work for the servers.

We didn't want to spend money on chargers, but I agreed it lacked something, so I ordered these placemats on Amazon, like $15 for 100. Disposable. Gives the tables a little something extra.

They don’t really serve a purpose in that situation or any really because they are basically a placemat alternative.


However, for a heavy appetizer reception, tables and chairs for everyone are a must, contrary to popular belief. I have been to many where there was no seating or chairs only for half of the guests and it was a disaster. Women are wearing heels and carrying clutches plus holding plate, a drink and needing a spare hand to eat with. Men have the advantage of pockets. In addition, you don’t know by looking who has mobility issues and can’t stand for long periods. With chairs only, you have to balance everything on your lap and drink on the floor and pray it doesn’t get kicked over. Even then guests will leave early because no consideration is given for their comfort.
Save your money for something guests will actually notice and appreciate.