Wedding and Reception in One Room
Making Magic Happen: Have Your Wedding Ceremony and Reception in One Room
Planning your wedding can be both exhilarating and overwhelming, especially when faced with the decision of whether to have your ceremony and reception in the same room. Some venues only have this option if you want both your ceremony and reception at the same venue. Other times, you just love the reception room so much, you want to do both the wedding and reception in one room.
What is a Room Flip?
A room flip is a term that resonates within the event industry, describing the complete transformation of a space between different stages of an event. For weddings, this often means transitioning from a heartfelt ceremony to a lively dinner reception. The key to successful room flips lies in meticulous planning and teamwork to ensure a seamless flow of the event.
How Long Does It Take to Flip a Ceremony to a Reception?
The process will typically take up to an hour. During this time, your guests are usually entertained with hors d’oeuvres and cocktails in a separate cocktail hour space. And you are working closely with your wedding photographer to finish family portraits and the photos of just the two of you.
Top Tips for Managing Successful Room Flips
Entertain Your Guests
Flips can take up to an hour, so make sure guests are comfortable and entertained during cocktail hour in a separate space away from the changing of the room decor. Closing doors or curtains can keep the busily staff hidden and the noise level down until the big reveal of the new room.
Coordinate Vendor Set-up
Some vendors, like a DJ or a band, need to be in place before the flip. Make sure these vendors have the time and space to set up prior to the ceremony, so there is not a delay in starting the party.
Pre-set Tables
A good way to expedite the flip is to set up the reception tables before the ceremony and have them waiting nearby. If you want them to remain completely hidden during the ceremony, you could obscure the tables and any other unsightly elements with pipe and drape.
Create a Dynamic Change
Take advantage of the flip to create a more dynamic event experience by changing the look and feel of the space. Utilize lighting, drapery, and decor changes to make guests feel like they are entering an entirely new venue.
Additional Staffing
Transitioning quickly and smoothly will usually require additional staffing because most of the catering staff will be needed for cocktail hour. When choosing a caterer, make sure they understand your vision, what will be involved to make a smooth changeover and avoid surprises.
A room flip can add a touch of magic to your wedding day. With careful planning, creative solutions, and attention to detail, you can seamlessly transition from a heartfelt ceremony to a lively reception, creating lasting memories for you and your guests. Embrace the flip and turn your wedding into an unforgettable experience!
