(MS) — One of the biggest decisions a couple has to make when planning a wedding concerns how to feed the guests. This boils down to two choices: a sit down meal or a buffet style serving. Each has their ups and downs, and which route to take typically depends on a number of factors.

• Degree of formality: Formal weddings often call for a sit-down meal, as it’s generally viewed as more elegant. But this doesn’t exclude the buffet- style option from formal weddings. At more laid back, but still formal, weddings a buffet-style meal is perfectly acceptable. For weddings that aren’t as formal, it’s generally best (and less expensive) to offer a buffet style meal.

• The guest list: The global nature of the world today means friends and family are spread out more than ever. The guest lists at many weddings are increasingly looking like a United Nations summit, with attendees coming from all over the map. If a wedding guest list features many guests who have flown or traveled from afar, it might be more appropriate to offer a more relaxed, sit down meal.

The age of guests should be considered as well before deciding on a meal option. If there will be lots of elderly people or even guests with young children, it’s probably easier on them to offer a sit down meal. For weddings that boast a particularly young guest list, a buffet style might encourage more mingling and allow those guests to meet one another a lot easier than a sit down meal would.

• Budget: Buffet-style meals are generally less expensive, but this isn’t always the case. Some think a sit-down meal will cost more because a wait staff is required to serve the food and drinks. While this is true to an extent, buffet-style meals still require a staff on hand to replace food that has run out. In addition, the time of day of the reception plays a role as well. For example, a buffet-style lunch will not be nearly as expensive as a buffet-style dinner. In general, though, a buffet at a wedding is almost always more budget-friendly than a sit down, typically costing far less per plate.

• Flexibility: Guest lists are often unique, with each guest having particular preferences when it comes to food. This makes buffets an especially attractive option. Sit down meals can be very limiting, which won’t bode well for picky eaters. A buffet, however, offers many selections, and chances are even the pickiest of eaters will find something they can devour. TF082431

(MS) — Top to Bottom: 1. Delicate beading on a perfect A line silk satin gown by Matthew Christopher. 2. Elegant and sophisticated beaded silk ball gown by Daniel Thompson. 3. Delicate gold beading on a silk satin gown is a one-of-a-kind creation by Claire's collection. 4. Sparkle, sparkle and more sparkle is the hallmark of this delicate crystal beaded A line gown by Claire's collection. TF082470

(MS) — Gail Garrison is almost as renowned for her charming personality and beauty as her taste in creating winning designs. Growing up in Denver, Colorado, Garrison learned to sew from her mother and grandmother, receiving her first sewing machine at age 6. By the time she was a high school student, Garrison was already designing clothes. She studied fashion design and pattern making at the University of Colorado, and moved to New York after graduation to pursue a career in modeling and fashion styling. Today, Garrison's pieces can be found in specialty stores across the country, and she attracts an elite clientele. Here are some looks from Gail Garrison Couture (Top to bottom): 1. Reimbroidered French lace complements a soft A line skirt to make this look soft and feminine. 2. Everyone will take notice of this draped fitted gown with baby pull-ups gathered around the skirt and train. 3. Gold opulence is sure to radiate everywhere. French Chantilly beaded lace is peaking above a fitted drape front gown with side organza pleating. 4. Tiny Swarovski crystals are scattered on top of this form-fitting trumpet skirt gown. TF082471