We did CG in March 2000 for our rehearsal dinner, though I can't imagine much has changed policy-wise. They told us if we could keep it under 24, we could just do a "big table" and let people order what they wanted (which was what we preferred). If it was over 18, though (so yes 18-24 we could go either way), we could have a separate banquet, with either buffet or plated, but it was extremely expensive to go that way per person. We did much better just letting everyone order what they wanted. We were 23 adults and the total was about $1400 with tip, which I thought was not bad at all given that the banquets started at $40/person plus all the service fees and room charge, and people would not have had the cooked-to-order experience or alcohol. Most people in our group split appetizers with their date/spouse, had their own entrees, and were too full for dessert or split one. Most people had pop but probably 10 had wine with a couple people downing at least a bottle each.
We sat in the "wine room," which is off to the back, but there were a handful of other tables in that room with guests not part of our group, who I felt extremely sorry for. There is no way for a group of 24 not to be a bit boisterous, especially during the toasting (roasting).
If you're going to worry about the cost, or if you have some greedy types (we all know our own friends!) or big drinkers, fixed-price may be the way to go. Or I can highly recommend the Illuminations dessert buffets on the Italy isola or the patio between France and England. They do a great job with those but your guests would need park admission. There is an upside and a downside to everything!
One other thing we didn't consider but would have if we'd known is the pontoon boat rides. Each boat can hold 12 I think, and you can cater on, and the boats can stay together, and you don't need park admission. The catering is not horrible if you keep it simple and of course you have the experience and the view to counter the ham-and-cheese sandwiches if that's what your budget allows.
