When you compare Wedding Packages, it is easy to focus on the package name or the number of choices included. A better approach is to look closely at what each package provides for your wedding day.

A clear checklist can help you compare your options without overlooking important details. Start with cocktail hour, reception selections, dessert, and the type of meal service. Then look at how each option fits the celebration you want to plan.

A Couple's Checklist for Comparing Wedding Packages

At Windows on the Water, we offer three package options: Classic Sit Down, Platinum Sit Down, and Floating Reception. Each option has a different combination of cocktail hour, reception, and dessert selections.

Before choosing one, review each part of the package carefully. The goal is to understand what is included and how the food service works. This makes it easier to compare your choices and select an option that suits your reception plans.

Start With the Cocktail Hour

Cocktail hour is the first part of the package to review. Check how many cold displays, chef attended stations, and passed hors d'oeuvres are included with each option.

The Classic Sit Down package includes four cold displays, three chef attended stations, and ten passed hors d'oeuvres. Platinum includes four cold displays, two upgraded cold displays, four chef attended stations, and twelve passed hors d'oeuvres.

Check the Cold Display Choices

Not every cold display is the same. The standard selections include Bruschetta Duo, Caprese, International Cheese and Fruit, and Vegetable Crudité.

Platinum also includes upgraded cold displays. These include Mediterranean, Tuscany Antipasto, Tuna Carpaccio, and Norwegian Smoked Salmon. The Platinum package includes a choice of two upgraded cold displays.

Review the Passed Hors D'oeuvres

Passed hors d'oeuvres are another detail worth checking before you choose a package. Look at both the number of selections and the available options.

Classic includes ten passed hors d'oeuvres, while Platinum includes twelve. Floating Reception follows the Classic cocktail hour structure, so it also includes the Classic cocktail hour selections.

Look at the Reception Format

The reception format can make a major difference in how your meal is served. Ask whether the package uses plated selections or food stations.

Classic includes one appetizer, one plated salad, two entrée choices, and one vegetarian option. Platinum includes one appetizer, one salad, three entrée choices, and one vegetarian option. Floating Reception includes one plated salad and four entrée stations.

Check the Entrée Selections

Your entrée choices are another important part of the checklist. Review how many selections are included and what type of choices are available.

The verified entrée options include chicken, short ribs, grouper, salmon, sea bass, filet mignon, lamb chops, cauliflower steak, and mushroom ravioli. One vegetarian option is included with the Classic and Platinum packages.

Review the Dessert Options

Dessert should also be part of your package comparison. At Windows on the Water, the packages include a custom wedding cake and five passed desserts.

The Platinum package also includes a Chocolate Fantasies Station. Additional dessert options are available separately, including a Sundae Bar, Viennese Table, and Bananas Foster Flambé.

Compare the Coffee and Tea Service

Simple details can be easy to overlook when comparing packages. Check whether coffee and tea service is included with your selected option.

Classic, Platinum, and Floating Reception all include coffee and tea with the dessert portion of the package. Knowing this before making your choice gives you a clearer view of what is already part of your selected package.

Look at the Differences Between Packages

Once you review each section, compare the packages as a whole. Classic provides a traditional structure, Platinum adds more cocktail hour and reception selections, and Floating Reception uses entrée stations for the reception.

The right choice depends on how you want your meal to be served. Looking at the details rather than choosing based only on the package name can make the decision easier.

Ask About Additional Dessert Options

If you want something beyond the standard dessert selections, review the available upgrades. The 2026 brochure lists several additional dessert choices with separate per person pricing.

These include Bananas Foster Flambé, Family Style Assorted Pastry Platter, Sundae Bar, Viennese Table, and Espresso, Cappuccino, Flavored Coffees. Late night snack options are also listed separately.

Make Your Checklist Before Choosing

Before selecting your package, write down the details that matter most to you. Compare cocktail hour selections, reception format, entrée choices, dessert, and coffee and tea service.

At Windows on the Water, our three package options give couples different ways to structure their reception. Taking time to compare the details can help you choose the option that fits your celebration.

Talk With Windows on the Water

If you are reviewing Wedding Packages and want to understand the differences between our options, our team can help you look through the available choices.

You can contact Windows on the Water at (609) 208 9475 or info@windowsonthewaternj.com. Share your wedding plans with us, and we can help you learn more about the package options available for your celebration.

FAQs

What should I check first in a wedding package?

Start with the cocktail hour, reception format, entrée choices, dessert, and included beverages. These details show what the package provides for your wedding.

How many package options does Windows on the Water offer?

Windows on the Water offers Classic Sit Down, Platinum Sit Down, and Floating Reception. Each option has different cocktail hour, reception, and dessert selections.

Does every package include a wedding cake?

Yes. Classic Sit Down, Platinum Sit Down, and Floating Reception include a custom wedding cake as part of their dessert selections.

Does Platinum include more food choices?

Yes. Platinum includes additional cocktail hour selections, twelve passed hors d'oeuvres, four chef attended stations, three entrée choices, and a Chocolate Fantasies Station.