Are Dessert Buffets Really Worth It? A Comprehensive Comparison of Their Pros and Cons*

2018.03.30 published

Delicious Surprise: Dessert Buffet ♡

Popularity of "Dessert Buffet" for Wedding Desserts

A dessert buffet, where guests can choose their favorite desserts as much as they like from a variety of options, is one of the well-received presentations for guests ♡

@smileorsmile1008

However, the dessert buffet does come with its share of disadvantages.

You want to decide whether or not to incorporate a dessert buffet after understanding all its good and bad aspects, right? ◎

So, this time, we will thoroughly introduce the advantages and disadvantages of a dessert buffet＊

Advantage #1: Guests can eat as much of their favorites as they want

The biggest advantage of a dessert buffet is that guests can eat their favorite desserts as much as they desire ♡

Particularly, many women love desserts, so just hearing the term "dessert buffet" makes them excited ♩

With a single dessert for everyone, it can be difficult to consider individual preferences like “I’m not a fan of whipped cream...” or “I wanted a crème brûlée for dessert,” but with a dessert buffet, everyone can eat to their heart's content!＊

@asu_0423

Advantage #2: Allows for a different venue than the reception

Dessert buffets are often held in a different location than the reception, commonly in a living space next to the reception hall or in a garden◎

Changing the space allows for the utilization of various areas of the wedding venue, and it’s also nice to change the atmosphere ♩

Guests will feel more satisfied being in a different space rather than sitting in the same spot for an extended period＊

@eri_wedding0512

Advantage #3: Guests can relax and chat or take photos

Another great point about a dessert buffet is that guests can take their time to chat or take photos ♡

Photos taken in the reception area can often have a similar vibe whether at the main or guest tables, but changing locations allows for different atmospheres in the photos ♩

Advantage #4: Unique presentations exclusive to the dessert buffet

Hosting a dessert buffet allows for unique presentations specific to that event＊

For example, guests can be served wedding cake directly, the bride and groom may appear in aprons or chef hats, or there can be spectacular flambé presentations using fire◎

The unique presentations of a dessert buffet will surely leave a lasting impression on the guests ♩

The dessert buffet has a lot of advantages, but there are also some disadvantages that should be mentioned.

Disadvantage #1: More expensive than regular desserts

The biggest disadvantage of a dessert buffet is that it’s more expensive than standard desserts.

While it varies by wedding venue, having a dessert buffet typically costs around 1,000 to 2,500 yen more per person than regular desserts.

Since there are many more desserts to prepare, it's somewhat unavoidable, but for brides who want to save money, it can be a tough decision.

Disadvantage #2: Some guests may find moving around tedious or difficult

While the ability to change locations to enjoy spaces like a garden is an advantage,

some guests may find moving around to be tedious or challenging.

☑ A grandfather who arrived in a wheelchair might find it difficult to move.

☑ Family members might hesitate to join the dessert buffet, wondering if it's appropriate for them.

☑ Alcohol-loving colleagues or male friends might prefer to enjoy themselves in the reception hall.

For various reasons, some guests may not be able to enjoy the dessert buffet.

When planning a dessert buffet, you might need to consider whether all the guests will be able to enjoy it and if any guests are likely to find moving around burdensome.

Disadvantage #3: Less flexibility in the schedule

The final disadvantage worth mentioning is that it can lead to a tighter schedule.

The time allocated for the dessert buffet is typically about 20-30 minutes, depending on the number of guests.

Since the reception time is often about an hour and a half, fitting in speeches, cutting the cake, changing outfits, table rounds, quizzes about the color of the dress, and performances along with the dessert buffet can leave little room for relaxation and conversation.

If no performances are planned at all, it might not be an issue, but for couples expecting to include many performances or presentations, it’s essential to be mindful of time constraints.

Do you want to have a dessert buffet? ♡

We have discussed the pros and cons of a dessert buffet＊

Whatever presentation you choose, there will always be advantages and disadvantages.

Consider your guests, budget, and time allocations carefully, and decide whether or not to include a dessert buffet◎

@vmikikov

May the dessert time at your wedding be filled with cute and delicious treats… ♡

➡ Click here for the list of dessert articles＊