You may have noticed our ceremony begins at 1:30pm, and the reception doesn't start until 7:00pm. This may seem strange, but an early service and an evening party is actually a very traditional way of doing it. The more we thought about the idea, the more we liked it--the pace is more relaxed not just for us and our families, but for everyone. Instead of asking our guests to rush straight from the ceremony to the reception, only to wait an hour for us to show up after pictures, the break gives everyone time to go about their days for a bit. We also know weddings usually end up as a reunion of sorts, and we wanted to give our friends and family a chance to spend time together. If you're not from Cincinnati, this is your time to explore a fantastic city (see the "Things to Do" page). If making it to both the ceremony and reception isn't doable for you, we totally understand--otherwise, enjoy the gap, and come at 7 ready to party.
Well, you'll need to budget some time for driving to the reception. The Hill Home is about 30 minutes from the church and 25 minutes from downtown Cincinnati. Beyond that, we think this would be a great time to take a nap, get dinner or a drink, or explore the city. For some ideas, see "things to do" or go to http://lifeinactfour.com/wordpress/the-gap/ for suggested itineraries.
Yep, Crossroads is huge. But we're getting married in the Chapel, which is much more intimate. If you've never been before, the building looks like a huge blue warehouse. It's best to park near the East Entrance. The Chapel actually has its own entrance and foyer on that side of the building. If you come in the West Entrance, just walk across the Atrium (and grab a cup of free coffee on your way) to the double doors under the "Chapel" sign.
We like to think of the reception as a cocktail cardigan affair. Erin and Derek will still be in their wedding best, but if you want to change during the Gap, feel free. The reception isn't necessarily casual, but we'll be in a tent, not the Ritz. Expect to see the wedding party rocking some sweet sweaters.
Mid-november is still solidly autumn in the Cincinnati area. It could be pretty chilly after dark, but we promise the tent will be toasty. Outside the tent, we have an incredible outdoor fireplace, along with a fire pit area a little further away. Yes, we'll have s'mores.
We won't have a full, seated dinner, but there will be food, desserts, and drinks (including a couple beers crafted specifically for our wedding).
There are lots of hotel options in the area. We have blocks reserved at three--one close the church, one close the reception, and one right in the middle. See "Travel" for all the details.