When planning a wedding, couples gravitate towards accommodating their own specific taste. A truly considerate couple will do their best to take into account what their guests would appreciate, but it’s undoubtedly difficult when trying to please a mass crowd – particularly when it comes to food.

An innovative solution, that’s gaining in popularity is the concept of DIY buffet stations. Laying out an assortment of items ensures your guests have the ability, not only to pick and choose their own meal, but to customize it to their liking. This menu option is both fun and memorable, and sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Appetizers

Fon’Definitley Do

Fondue is not just delicious, but it packs a magnificent “wow” factor in its display. Listed here under appetizers, a cheese fondue is the automatic choice, but chocolate fondue would be a perfect dessert buffet as well.

Most would only think to serve artisanal breads with a cheese fondue, but being creative and providing variety is the secret to success. Broccoli florets, green beans, and boiled mini potatoes are all superb dipping alternatives. For those who are more adventurous, roasted jalapenos can be offered for a full-flavoured intensity.

Intentionally Unconventional

Fruit and vegetables are a favourable classic that, on the outset, may seem like a mundane selection for something as quirky as a DIY food buffet set up. It’s true, fruits and veggies have been dragged out and put on display in some very tiresome and blasé fashions in the past; but the fruit and veg setup doesn’t need to be boring. Presentation and range are key to a successful and stunning arrangement.

Fresh fruit served in waffle cones and veggies with their sauces in individual tumblers or shot glasses are perfect for maintaining serving sizes and add a touch of flair to a usually conventional offering.

Desserts

Nuts for Doughnuts

Hand a person a plain doughnut, some frosting, and a spattering of sprinkles, then just step back and watch them create edible art.

Everyone has their own personal favourites when it comes to this time-honoured treat, which makes it especially arduous to put together a collection that will suit every taste adequately. For example, think of the last time you picked up a dozen from your local bakery; if you asked for a mixture, you’ll notice that when you laid out the box at its destination, it’s exceedingly rare that the selection will please everyone. When you offer the ability to create your own doughnut, this becomes a non-issue.

Everyday is Sundae

Possibly the pinnacle of DIY deliciousness, the ice cream sundae is everything you could ask for in a dessert. Using any flavoured ice cream for a base, the multitude of toppings and sauces to choose from is staggering. Fruit, nuts, chocolate chips (of every flavour), various candies, cookies, sprinkles, and marshmallow will fill your display beautifully. Make sure to leave room for hot fudge, butterscotch, and caramel sauces, though!

Additionally, for those with certain dietary needs, don’t forget to include sorbet with fresh fruit, nuts, honey, and shaved coconut for toppings.

Drinks

It’s Five O’Clock Right Here

Regardless of what Mr. Bond told you, martinis are meant to be stirred, not shaken, so you can leave out the shaker this time around. However, you definitely should provide your guests with a large glass for mixing their martini with ice, and a strainer. A few ingredients to include could be gin, dry vermouth, and vodka, olive juice and olives, sparkling water, lemon twists, and of course, ice.

Hot & Cold Therapy

For a non-alcoholic option (that can still come with a little shot of boozy goodness, if you’re up for it), hot chocolate or lemonade stands are family friendly alternatives to bars.

If you’re aiming for some hot drinks, set out gourmet hot chocolate and offer different flavoured marshmallows (and flavoured liqueurs for a more adult serving).

Should you be looking to cool your guests down, a homemade lemonade stand can be a whimsical addition to your stations. Allow your guests to choose from any natural or organic juices you feel like including – lemon, lime, orange, grapefruit! You may even want to throw in some iced tea for added variety. Give your guests the option of garnishes, from mint, basil, or tarragon, to fresh or frozen berries; and lemon, lime and orange slices dress up their drink beautifully adding a fancy finishing touch!