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Dallas, TX – The final thing most of your guests will remember about your wedding day is the wedding reception. The dancing, the socialization and, of course, the food, can leave a lasting impression on your guests. Knowing the services offered by your wedding caterer can help you to make the most of this special time together with friends and family.

When you’re planning your reception, your own personal preferences and budget will dictate the type of food and beverages you offer. Understanding the types of foods and various courses involved lets you make an informed decision. Here are some of the most common wedding caterer services:

The Open Bar

Many couples will choose to offer an open bar to their guests at the reception. The open bar usually runs through the entire time of the reception, although last call may occur an hour or so prior to the end of the night. An open bar might include things like top shelf liquor, cream drink and frozen drinks. An open bar will usually offer soft drinks, as well. If you’re on a budget, you can also scale back the open bar to include beer, wine and soft drinks.

The Cocktail Hour

Not every reception includes a cocktail hour, but many do. During the cocktail hour, you will have a variety of different food service possibilities. These food options may be served by the wedding caterer staff, or, more commonly, are offered in buffet style. There will typically be a number of hors d’oeuvres, cold deli platters, fruit and cheese trays, breads or even hot pasta dishes.

The cocktail hour is often a less formal portion of the wedding reception. It sometimes takes place in a separate room from the reception area, and lasts an hour. The wedding party often doesn’t attend the cocktail hour. This allows time for guests to arrive, and for the wedding party to make their entrance at the end.

The Main Reception Dinner

You have, essentially, two options when it comes to your reception dinner. You can have buffet-style dinner with chafing dishes that allow guests to pick from the various items offered on the menu. Alternatively, you can have a seated dinner that will let guests pick from a selection of main courses. Typically, a salad and soup or small appetizer may also be served. The menu you have for your reception depends, at least in part, on whether you choose a buffet style dinner or a plate service.

Cake Service

The final service offering of the night is typically the cake service. After the couple cuts the wedding cake, the wedding caterer may serve a slice of the wedding cake to each guest. Again, this can be more of a self-serve arrangement or it can be delivered to the guest tables by catering staff. Tea or coffee is often served during this time, as well.

There are many other service possibilities your wedding caterer may offer. From a desert bar to ice sculptures to gourmet foods, your caterer can add touches to your reception to make it truly memorable.