EmilyT: Our reception is on the pool deck as well and Yamina gave us the option of plated or buffet so I think you do have the option as long as your guest numbers are right (we have 39 guests + me and the groom). I didn't like the plated options much so I chose the BBQ buffet, and made some slight changes to the menu, which Yamina said was fine. (We asked to drop the tuna & salmon kabob and replace with the beef kabobs from the Caribbean buffet.). She said you get everything on the buffet which seems like a better option than having to choose from the plated meals...I thought it was a better selection! I've read good things about the Caribbean buffet on this forum as well