Andrea's Wedding: All you can eat, after-dinner buffet

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One design element I hope to incorporate into my sister's outdoor beach/back deck wedding is a beautifully arrayed dessert buffet. Inspired by the photo above, I love the thought of incorporating beverages and salty snacks in addition to the candy and sweets in an after-dinner buffet.

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Patterned paper lined basic white plates for an extra design element.

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A basic serving tray and birdcage are filled with moss and presents, respectively, to further incorporate these basic elements into the nature-inspired design motif.

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More fun and unique items add whimsy to the arrangement.

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Wedding or no wedding, a cheese buffet is a practical idea if you're hosting a shower or party any time soon.

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Remember to add varying heights by using tiered stands.

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I adore the giant balloons in this 4th of July buffet.

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Another favorite buffet of mine is this brunch display, complete with salad, croissants, and coffee.

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Antique nickel serving dishes are a nice mix-up to the average white porcelain.

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Ultimately, it's the tiny details that give the buffet it's charm.

The terracotta serving dishes give this Italian buffet a more rustic feel.

Name plates for the food adds another design element.

I definitely believe flowers and nature should share the same amount of screen time as the food itself.

I also love incorporating the couple's initials, as seen here and in the first buffet at the top.

Michael's Craft Store sells these cardboard letters for a few dollars. You may remember seeing the 'A' in my office - well it will be used at Andrea's wedding, as well, along with the 'P' for Mr. Paul.

Have you done a buffet recently? Have you used any of these tips?