We are having a backyard wedding with *GASP* a BBQ buffet style reception. The food will be catered and kept in Nescos. Food will be set up in a separate tent that is connected to our main tent as a buffet for guests to plate their own food. We are opting to use attractive looking plastic wear to save on costs (don't want to hear the argument to use real, it is not an option). I have included pictures of my plastic wear and the plates we are looking into purchasing. My question is, should I set the tables, or should I have the plates and silverware available at the buffet line and the dessert tables? My thought is to set the table that way the guests don't have to carry plates plus silver wear back from the buffet line. We will also have water and wine at each table, and then other drinks will be available in the food tent. If we set the tables, how many plates are needed? One for the meal and one for dessert with additional plates being available in the food area?
