A grazing table can elevate your wedding with a memorable visual centrepiece and a wide variety of quality food. Whether you’re hosting an intimate ceremony or a large reception, the key to an exceptional grazing table lies in meticulous planning, clear objectives, and professional execution. This guide outlines the essential steps to plan a wedding grazing table with precision and care.
Requirements
Start by identifying the role your grazing table will play. Is it the main meal or a pre-dinner offering? Will it serve as a dessert table or support a themed concept? Understanding your specific requirements will help shape your budget, portion sizes, and food selection.
Guest Count
Determine your guest numbers to calculate how much food is required. A standard estimate is 100–150 grams of food per person for light grazing, or up to 400 grams for a main meal alternative.
Venue and Timing
Confirm table dimensions, indoor/outdoor setting, and service time. These factors affect table layout, food choices, and supplier logistics.
Set Your Budget
Clearly define a budget range. High-quality grazing tables vary in price depending on food selection, table size, styling complexity, and service inclusions.
Allocation
Split your budget across categories:
- Produce (60–70%) – cheeses, cured meats, fruits, dips, breads.
- Styling & Decor (15–20%) – flowers, props, risers, boards.
- Logistics & Service (10–15%) – setup, delivery, staff, pack-down.
Choose a Style
Your grazing table should align with your overall wedding theme. Choose a colour palette, aesthetic, and presentation style that complements the event.
Popular Styles
- Rustic – wooden boards, earthy tones, wildflowers.
- Elegant – white linens, marble platters, fresh florals.
- Mediterranean – olives, vine leaves, terracotta serveware.
Select the Menu
Balance your table with a mix of textures, colours, and flavour profiles. Prioritise quality ingredients and avoid items that spoil quickly.
Categories
- Cheeses – soft (brie), hard (aged cheddar), blue (gorgonzola).
- Cured meats – prosciutto, salami, bresaola.
- Fruits – berries, grapes, figs, dried fruits.
- Dips & condiments – hummus, pesto, chutneys.
- Carbohydrates – artisan breads, crackers, lavosh.
- Vegetables – cherry tomatoes, cucumber, marinated artichokes.
- Sweets – dark chocolate, nougat, macarons (if applicable).
Hire a Professional
Engage a specialist grazing service such as Goodness Gracious Sydney to handle sourcing, styling, and on-the-day setup. Professionals ensure food safety, visual consistency, and time-efficient delivery.
What to Ask
- Are they insured and food safety certified?
- Do they accommodate dietary needs?
- Can they provide styling add-ons or custom concepts?
Coordinate Timing
Work with your venue and caterer to finalise setup times. Grazing tables are ideally assembled one to two hours before service. Avoid early setups in hot conditions, especially if refrigeration is unavailable.
Executing
Ensure a clean, level table surface. Use risers to build height and dimension. Place cheeses and large items first, followed by meats, then produce, condiments, and breads. Fill gaps with fresh herbs, nuts, or edible flowers.
Before guest arrival, review:
- Table symmetry and presentation.
- Cleanliness and spill-free surfaces.
- Knife placement and utensils.
- Labelling for allergens or dietary options.
Food Safety Measures
- Keep perishable items under 5°C prior to display.
- Avoid leaving food out longer than 4 hours.
- Use gloves and utensils during setup.
Planning a wedding grazing table requires strategic decision-making across design, budgeting, food safety, and coordination. By clearly defining your vision and partnering with a specialist like Goodness Gracious Sydney, you can achieve a seamless and visually stunning feature that enhances your celebration.
