Formal fine China for wedding dinnerware would be pretty awesome, but to serve numerous guests, it's not very realistic. However, there's no need to give up your dream if you want a fine dining experience at your wedding. There are different ways you can go about this and you don't have to resort to disposable plates if you don't want to.
A starter set of fine China can most likely serve your wedding party, or you can keep it simple and just choose real dishes for the bride and groom. For wedding reception guests, fancy plastic disposal dinnerware is totally appropriate and will contribute to making the event memorable. Let's explore some different ideas you can consider. Then, you can assess your own needs, how many guests you will have, and your budget to help you determine what's best for you.
Why Choose Special Wedding Dinnerware
Wedding dinnerware is a special and timeless addition to any couple's special day. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing, but it also serves as keepsake to the newlywed couple that they can use after their nuptials. Just like many other things involved in a wedding, the dinnerware can come with a lot of traditions. However, many modern couples are opting out of old traditions and making their own path.
Wedding dinnerware is typically made of high-grade China, with each piece uniquely crafted with intricate details that make them stand out. The design of the dinnerware commemorates the union of two people and marks a beginning of something more beautiful to come. However, we see modern themes that use different types of materials and even designs and colors.
Today, wedding dinnerware comes in various shapes, sizes, styles, designs and colors which can represent unique personalities, capturing every heartfelt moment from the wedding in stunning detail. It’s no wonder why these dishes become a treasured part of family heirlooms for years to come!
These ideas for dinnerware for your wedding reception are sure to motivate your creativity in creating an ambiance for your special day. There are so many different types of plates for weddings, it might seem hard to choose.
Wedding Dinnerware Ideas
Setting a table specifically for the wedding party is common. If perhaps you have chosen a dinnerware pattern in a wedding registry, chances are that you have a starter dinnerware set that you received at your bridal shower. This can be used to serve your wedding party and will look spectacular in a table setting.
If you just have a few place settings, using it for the place setting for the bride and groom will be memorable and special. Serving platters from your chosen dinnerware pattern can also used on a serving table. This reflects your style and makes memories that can be carried on from generation to generation.
Mikasa Love Story is an excellent choice of dinnerware that will serve not only for the wedding, but for a lifetime.
Dinnerware for weddings from Amazon
Here are some dinnerware sets available on Amazon that could work perfectly for a wedding venue or reception. Click any of the photos to see the details on Amazon (Amazon affiliate links which won’t change your price but will share some commission)
600 Piece Gold Dinnerware Set - Plastic Dinnerware
As far as plastic sets go, this one is great quality, looks beautiful, and you get a lot of pieces for the price. You should always aim for more than the headcount at events like this (since people can drop or spill or use more than one), so this is a good deal.
Exquisite 200 Pcs Heavyweight Disposable Plastic Plates and Cutlery Set
These don't look like plasticware at all and they are also a great price for what you get. Another thing that I love about this set is that the plates are heavyweight so they won't be so flimsy for guests to hold.
Gibson Home Oslo Porcelain Dinnerware Set, Service for 4 (16pcs), White
This plain white set from Gibson is elegant, but simple, so that it goes with any wedding theme and won't distract from other wedding décor.
Gibson Home Round Embossed Dinnerware Set, Service for 4 (12pcs), White
This set has a lovely little pattern on it that helps it stand out, while being a cream or off-white shade that I love. It's classic and sturdy and these can be reused after the wedding, too.
Elama Service for Four 16 Piece Porcelain Dinnerware Set, White-Round 2
This set has a more modern design than the previous one and is a pure white color, versus the off-white or cream color. I think it's really fun and the design makes it "pop" more than a flat white plate or bowl. These are a real value for their price, too.
Plastic dinner plates
Should you use plastic dinnerware at your wedding? Some people frown at this idea, but others find it much more practical for modern weddings and there are more beautiful designs of plastic plates than ever before.
For serving guests, plastic disposable dinnerware is a well accepted option. Long ago, disposable dinnerware was kind of tacky for formal events, but nowadays there are disposable dishes that appear to be formal dinnerware in a table setting.
Plates, bowls, wine glasses, and flatware that look like fine China, glassware and silverware are readily available. This is a wonderful choice for weddings, either for wedding dinners or simply serving wedding cake and beverages.
Eco-friendly plates
If you want something that is disposable, but you worry about the excess waste, there are eco-friendly dinnerware ideas. Many of these are made from recycled materials, and can be recycled themselves afterwards.
When you use disposable plastic plates, you can't beat the ease of cleanup. If the wedding reception is a large-scale event, you may even feel like this is the only option. Having fine China for hundreds of people is not feasible for most people.
What plates do you need for a wedding?
When we talk about wedding plates, we are typically referring to the reception. And how many plates you need and which types will depend on what is being served at the wedding. Typically, salad plates or dessert plates can be used for the cake.
Dinner itself may be served on regular sized dinner plates. You may also need bowls or cups, or glasses, depending on what is being served. Whether you use plated with gold or disposable plastics, it's all about capturing the look and feel that you desire for your special day while also hitting all the modes of functionality that are needed.
At the end of the day, only you can decide the perfect plates for you and your event, but I hope you feel better equipped to make that decision now that you have all of this information.
Share Your Wedding Ideas - Wedding Dinnerware
Weddings are special and sharing photos and stories from your special event will be inspirational to others. For other brides and grooms who are planning their wedding, looking at yours can give them ideas for what they want. When it comes to planning the reception and dinnerware, you may want your wedding planner to help you with it. They have experience in this industry and can guide you to the perfect options for your needs.
We would love to hear what kind of wedding dinnerware you used for your wedding. Furthermore, tell us what you plan for future nuptials! Wedding ideas are always fun to read. We look forward to seeing your wedding ideas and sharing your once in lifetime experience.
Wedding dinnerware is a small part of the big picture of wedding planning. Small details can play a big part in making the event extraordinary and unforgettable. You can have tons of fun coming up with wedding ideas of your own and giving your personal touch in planning your wedding.
I wish you blessings in your marriage and the best in making your wedding day spectacular and memorable.
Kathy acquired the blog, Recipe Idea Shop in 2024. She was raised on a farm in Arkansas where having a big garden and good food to eat was the norm. She shares recipes for homemade comfort food and new trending dishes.
Kathy began her blogging journey in 2011 when she founded PetticoatJunktion.com, a home décor blog focused on repurposing and upcycling furniture, and thrift store finds.