[future_ponder]

I am having a buffet dinner and wanted to know if I need to have arranged seating.

Also, a lot of the guests will be use to the idea of an "snack" reception, but I am wanting a more formal dinner (with a little dancing). Should I arrange for a served meal instead of a buffet dinner, or is there another way to make sure that the guests will understand that the reception is not an eat and leave event if I do have the buffet style dinner. [crazy]

[Nancy Tucker]

Dear Future Ponder,

Your meal does not set the tone of the reception. You will need music during dinner with someone announcing the formal events as they occur. For instance, when you arrive at your reception, will you be announced into the reception room? will you then have your first dance, toast and blessing? Whomever will be doing this announcement will be keeping your guests posted. After dinner have the father daughter/family dances and then guests will be invited to the dance floor.

Whether you decide on a buffet or a seated meal, it is always best to do a seating chart. When guests are left to their own devices, they'll have one table blocked off for 4 people and another will have to have 12 in order to accomodate your numbers. Make the decision for them and it's much less headache.