Many couples dream of saying their vows with the red rocks of Sedona behind them, and the photos from those ceremonies last a lifetime. Once the ceremony ends, however, you still need a comfortable place to eat, dance, give toasts, and celebrate, and that is where many couples run into sticker shock. A growing number are choosing a simple plan: say “I do” in Sedona, then drive a short way down the road to celebrate in Old Town Cottonwood. The Connection Room is a modern, nature-inspired private event venue built for exactly that kind of day.
Why Split the Ceremony and the Reception?
A ceremony and a reception have very different needs. Your ceremony needs a stunning backdrop and a short program, while your reception needs tables, a food prep area, good sound, restrooms, parking, and room to move for several hours. Trying to fit all of that into one scenic location can be costly, so splitting the day lets you put your budget where it matters most.
How far is Cottonwood from Sedona?
The drive from Sedona to Old Town Cottonwood is about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your ceremony location and the time of day. That is short enough for guests to follow along easily, and it gives your caterer time to finish setting up before everyone arrives.
What Makes This an Affordable Reception Option
Two of the biggest line items at many venues are required in-house catering and a food and beverage minimum. At The Connection Room, neither one applies.
Bring your own caterer
Outside caterers are welcome, so you can hire the Verde Valley caterer you love or set up a casual taco bar. Because there is no food and beverage minimum, you are never required to spend a set amount on a menu you did not choose. The full kitchenette and catering-friendly prep area gives your team a clean place to plate and serve.
Simple, clear pricing
The venue offers hourly, half-day, and full-day rentals. The rate is $150 per hour plus a 20% service fee. A 50% deposit holds your date, and the balance is due 45 days before the event. There is also a $100 refundable key deposit. Some high-demand dates may require full non-refundable prepayment, so it pays to reach out early if you have a popular fall or spring Saturday in mind. For a deeper breakdown, see our guide to event space rental cost in Cottonwood, AZ.
What Is Included in Your Reception Rental
You do not have to rent a long list of extras to make the room feel finished. Your rental includes:
- Tables and chairs, plus lounge seating for guests who want to relax
- Linens and decor, with more decor options available on request
- A full kitchenette and catering-friendly prep area
- Audio-visual equipment, including high-speed WiFi, a projector and screen, and a high-quality sound system
- A private bridal suite that also works as office space
- Ample, easy-access parking and a private elevator
- On-site venue support with setup and logistics
The projector and screen work well for a photo slideshow, and the sound system handles toasts, a playlist, or a DJ. You can see the full list on our services page.
A bridal suite for quick changes
Many couples change out of their ceremony attire into something easier to dance in, and the private bridal suite gives you a calm place to freshen up before your grand entrance.
The Look and Feel of the Space
The Connection Room was designed to feel warm and natural, which complements a red rock ceremony beautifully. Arched windows provide soft natural light, greenery is draped across the beams overhead, ring chandeliers add a modern glow, and a sunburst wall creates a ready-made backdrop for first-dance photography and family portraits. Browse the portfolio to get a feel for the room before your tour.
How Many Guests Can You Invite?
Capacity depends on your layout, since a seated dinner with round tables requires more floor space than a standing cocktail reception with lounge areas. The best way to plan is to share your expected headcount and preferred reception style, and the team will help you design a layout that fits comfortably. Our event venue FAQ covers more on how layouts work.
Planning the Rest of Your Wedding Weekend
Old Town Cottonwood sits in the heart of the Verde Valley, close to Clarkdale, Jerome, Camp Verde, and Sedona, with wine tasting rooms, shops, and restaurants within walking distance. That makes it easy to build a full weekend around your wedding.
The night before the big day, many couples host a relaxed dinner for the wedding party. If that is on your list, read our guide to rehearsal dinner venues in the Verde Valley. For earlier celebrations, we also have tips on hosting a bridal shower in Cottonwood.
Get vendor help
If you are planning from out of town, ask the team for recommendations for trusted local caterers, florists, and planners who know the Verde Valley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a wedding reception venue near Sedona that allows outside catering?
Yes. The Connection Room in Old Town Cottonwood welcomes outside caterers and has no food and beverage minimum. It is located about 20 to 30 minutes from Sedona, so couples can marry on the red rocks and celebrate at a reception nearby. A full kitchenette and prep area is included for your catering team.
How much does it cost to rent The Connection Room for a wedding reception?
The rate is $150 per hour plus a 20% service fee, with hourly, half-day, and full-day options. A 50% deposit books your date, and the balance is due 45 days before the event. A $100 refundable key deposit also applies.
What is included with a reception rental?
Tables, chairs, lounge seating, linens, and decor are included. You also get a kitchenette, a projector and screen, a sound system, high-speed WiFi, and a private bridal suite. Parking, a private elevator, and on-site setup support are part of the rental too.
How many guests can the reception space hold?
Capacity depends on whether you are planning a seated dinner or a standing reception. The best approach is to share your headcount and preferred layout with the venue, and the team will help you design a floor plan that accommodates your group comfortably.
How far in advance should we book a wedding reception?
Book as early as possible, especially for popular spring and fall Saturdays. Some high-demand dates require full non-refundable prepayment, and reaching out early gives you the best selection of available dates and more time to plan your layout.
Book a Tour
Ready to see the space in person? We would love to give you a personal tour and discuss your reception plans.
Address: 637 N. Main St. Suite 2B, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
Phone: (928) 456-6200
Email: info@connectionroom.org
Book a tour: https://connectionroom.org/contact/
