Sharing Plates vs. Plated Dining: Choosing the Perfect Wedding Breakfast for Your Day

Beetroot Cured Salmon

The Corner House Sharing board

Your wedding breakfast is more than just a meal, it’s one of the first moments you & your guests will truly relax, celebrate & connect after saying “I do.” The way you choose to serve it sets the tone for the rest of the day. At Byre Barn, we know that every couple’s vision is unique, so the choice between a sharing plate feast or an elegant plated sit down is all about the experience you want to create.

The Wedding Breakfast: More Than a Meal

Traditionally, the “wedding breakfast” is the first meal enjoyed together as a married couple, no matter the time of day. It’s a chance to celebrate with family & friends, savour incredible food, & soak up that just married glow.

At Byre Barn, all wedding breakfasts are designed in partnership with award-winning chef Matt Sworder from The Corner House, using the very best seasonal Kentish produce. Whether you opt for generous sharing platters or beautifully plated dishes, every bite is designed to be memorable.

Option 1: The Sharing Plate Feast

Perfect for: relaxed, sociable weddings where conversation & connection are key.

The vibe: Sharing boards arrive at the table, for guests to help themselves & pass around.

Pros:

• Interactive & informal: Gets everyone talking & creates a lively, communal feel.

• Flexible portions: Guests can choose what they love most.

• Visually stunning: Vibrant platters make for beautiful table styling.

Considerations:

• Works best with long banquet style tables (Perfect for Byre Barn setting)

• Requires space on the table for serving dishes.

• Guests may need to reach across to serve themselves.

Option 2: The Plated Wedding Breakfast

Perfect for: timeless, elegant weddings with a more formal flow.

The vibe: Each guest is served an individually plated starter, main, & dessert, often chosen in advance from your menu.

Pros:

• Refined presentation: Every plate is picture perfect.

• Easier flow: Speeches & courses can be timed more precisely.

• No table clutter: Leaves more room for florals, candles, & décor.

Considerations:

• Less interactive than sharing plates.

• Requires more pre-event menu planning.

Byre Barn’s Take: Why Not Both?

We believe your wedding breakfast should reflect your personality as a couple. Many of our couples choose a hybrid approach, perhaps a plated starter, followed by a sharing-style main, & then an indulgent plated dessert. This way, you get the elegance of a formal meal with the warmth & energy of a shared dining experience.

Final Tips for Choosing Your Style

1. Think about your table plan: Long tables lend themselves to sharing.

2. Consider your guest list: Will your guests enjoy helping themselves, or would they prefer service?

3. Match it to your theme: Sharing suits rustic & bohemian styles, plated suits classic & contemporary.

Let’s Create Your Perfect Wedding Menu

Whether you imagine a lively feast or an elegant plated affair, Byre Barn & Matt Sworder, The Corner House Kitchen will create dishes that reflects your tastes & wows your guests.

Arrange a private tasting & see your ideas come to life.

Contact us at weddings@byrebarnkent.co.uk

Find out more at www.byrebarnkent.co.uk