How to transition from wedding to reception in the same room?

Question

im having my wedding and recpetion in the same room and i need to know how to go about changing the set up from the ceremony into a set up for the reception? or should i leave it the same? i dont want my guest to get aggivated while people are moving things around so im looking for the smoothest way possible. ALL HELP OR COMMENTS GREATLY APPRECIATED :-)

Answer 1

You can have a short cocktail hour as the others have stated, if that is not possible just start some music and have a team of people help set up the tables. I am sure once everyone see's what is happening others will pitch in and it will happen sooner than expected.  

Answer 2

Is there a foyer or entrance hall that you could set up with wine and h'rdurves?  It will help to have bar tables set up for some people to stand around and chat.  It will take awhile to set up for the reception.

sorry about the spelling, no spell checker.

Answer 3

Have a cocktail hour or have everyone outside to take pictures.  If you hired a DOC (Day of Coordinator) then he/she would redecorate the room where you are having the reception.  The place that you are holding the reception should have a DOC for you.  If not delegate to others!

Answer 4

Is there a way that you could set up an area outside or in a different room for a short cocktail hour? If you can get the guests into another room or outdoors with some food and drinks then you can quickly transform the ceremony site into the reception site.

Here is what my friend did. She set up the room the same for the ceremony as you would for a reception. Everyone took their seats at tables during the ceremony, then there was no transition needed. It worked out fine. It was a little different, but everyone had a seat and was comfortable.  

Answer 5

You are going to need a great team to help push the people out for drink and stuff ! Have pictures taken in another room. Why u guys are out of the room the team of people is going to have to tranfer the room around!

Answer 6

Have everyone move outside for pictures after the ceremony, but have a few people take turns going in to transition the room into a reception area- fold and stack chairs, push out dj or speaker equipment, clear the area. after pictures, move everyone back in