Family Affair

The gang's all here. So for a laid-back fete, serve family style as they do at the new Ace Hotel and Swim Club in Palm Springs. Aunt Ann and Uncle Al can choose what they want off the grill and when they get back to their seats at the communal tables, they'll find platters piled with more than enough grub to go around. Nothing gets conversation going like, "Please pass the ceviche."

For more information, go to acehotel.com/palmsprings.

The Bar Scene

Seating arrangements feel like a death sentence? Set yourself (and your guests) free with food stations. Strategically placed inside the reception location and replenished throughout the night, this Graze Away menu from Los Angeles-based caterer and party planner Lulu Powers, who's known for her elegantly quirky events, is sure to keep things light, lively, and moving along nicely.

Gaga Gala

Pull out all the stops — then add foie. If a seated affair is what you're after, take creative cues from Bite's Scott Skey and Nick Hosea. The innovative New York duo dreamt up a menu to be served in tasting plates to each table, which allows for excellently attentive service while actually minimizing servers' presence on the floor, scoring deluxe points without a trace of snoot.