Glossary · Events & planning
Serving window
Definition
The serving window is the agreed period during which the van is open and serving guests, separate from the time needed to arrive and set up.
When you book an ice cream van, the serving window is the stretch of time it is actually handing out ice cream, for example during a wedding drinks reception or the afternoon of a school fete. Arrival, setting up and packing away happen either side of it, so the van is on site for longer than it is serving.
Choosing the window well makes a big difference. At weddings it often follows the meal or fills the gap before the evening. At corporate events it may match a lunch break. Too long and the van stands idle; too short and guests miss out. Duration is one of the things that shapes your quote, so tell us when you would like service to start and finish.
Related terms
- Dwell timeDwell time is how long guests stay at an event or in one area. It shapes how demand for ice cream spreads across the day.
- Queue managementQueue management means planning how guests line up and are served so waits stay short and the queue does not block paths or other activities.
- Event organiserThe event organiser is the person or company that plans an event, books suppliers and makes sure the site, permissions and safety are in place.
- DepositA deposit is a payment made when booking to secure a date. It confirms the booking and is usually taken off the final balance.
- The full glossary54 terms, from soft serve to street trading licences.
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