Seated dinner

The most formal — courses, place cards, and clear pacing. Perfect for weddings and gala dinners.

Cocktail reception

Passed bites and stations. Best for anniversaries, mixers, and celebrations of life.

Family-style

Warm, generous, communal. Ideal for rehearsal dinners and milestone celebrations.

Tasting menu

Chef-led, quiet, refined. Chosen when the meal itself is the event.

Guest experience

Seated dinner is the most held. Cocktail is the most social. Family-style is the most warm.

Cost differences

Seated is typically the highest, family-style close behind, cocktail the most flexible.

Timing

Seated: 2h · Family-style: 90m · Cocktail: 2–3h open.

Best event types

Match the format to the moment — we will help you decide.

Calculator

Try our event calculator to see planning ranges for each style.

Final recommendation

When in doubt, family-style. It always feels like Waterhouse.