Behind the Scenes of a Room Flip: What Really Happens at St. Louis Weddings

About the Role

A room flip is a coordinated transformation of a wedding venue from ceremony to reception setup, typically completed in under 60 minutes. This process involves clearing the ceremony space, moving and styling reception tables, and installing wedding flowers and décor with precision and speed.

Responsibilities

• Break down ceremony chairs, floral pieces, arch installations, and décor after guests exit.
• Remove backdrop dividers used to hide preset reception tables during the ceremony.
• Place and style reception tables, including linens, place settings, and larger floral arrangements.
• Install delicate or tall floral centerpieces, glass hurricanes, and elevated arrangements after tables are in place.
• Coordinate with venue teams, catering staff, and photographers to ensure a seamless transition.
• Light candles, preset salads, and arrange dessert displays (e.g., cake) during the flip.
• Ensure the space is photo-ready for the photographer to capture room details and a "room reveal" with the couple.

Why Consider a First Look

A first look allows post-ceremony portraits to be taken outside the ceremony space, providing vendors the full flip window to work. This protects your timeline, enhances the guest experience, and gives you more time to enjoy cocktail hour with your guests.

Photography Considerations

Photographers need dedicated time to capture reception details, such as floral installations, tablescapes, and personal touches. A "room reveal" is recommended to allow the couple to see the transformed space and have photos taken before guests enter.

Labor and Cost Factors

Labor costs for a room flip are higher due to the need for a larger on-site team, compressed timelines, and immediate availability during the ceremony. Specialized handling of floral installations and coordination among vendors also contribute to these costs.

• Larger team required on-site.
• Compressed 45-60 minute timeline for setup.
• Immediate availability during and after the ceremony.
• Specialized handling of delicate floral installations.

Vendor Teams Featured

• Planning & Design: The Codas Collective
• Venue & Catering: Marriott St. Louis Grand
• Photo: Ashley Pieper Photography
• Florals: Belli Fiori
• Hair & Makeup: @emilymillermakeupandhair
• Entertainment: Patrick Lentz Entertainment
• Photo Booth: Elemnt Booth Co
• Dance Floor: Millenium Productions
• Rentals: Styled and Staged
• Stationery: First Glance Designs