Pasta buffet

Sounds good. I suggest several pans instead of just one big pan .

I agree with pp, if you're using a caterer, they'll be able to prepare pasta dishes and keep them the appropriate temperature and consistency. If by chance you're thinking about doing this yourself, that is, self-catering, and you don't have experience, I'd encourage you to rethink that idea for many reasons (e.g., liability, time/effort, etc. -- there are a million posts on this forum about the drawbacks of self-catering, so it's easy to search for and read them).

If you pick the right caterer, they should be able to execute it correctly. I've seen pasta at weddings and it's been totally fine when served hot.

I've heard great things about them and am sure that if you hire the right team they'll make it spectacular, after-all how did they become a thing anyway? Right, I think you should reach out to vendors who do this, check our their reviews and try the I am assuming you can try them out like you would any other caterer and that will ensure you've made the right choice. Get it girl!

Just spectating here, because I plan on doing a pasta bar too. I was nervous about the noodle quality as well (please, be al dente!) and I am glad to hear others had good experiences.

If you have a caterer i'm sure they will be able to handle your worries! a pasta bar sounds absolutely fantastic! penne is always a great noodle choice - i feel it holds up the best for stuff like this.

I love the idea of the pasta bar! Your caterer should be able to do this with no issue. I would say ask the caterer you've hired or are considering hiring how they plan on ensuring all of the noodles are good quality.