How to Plan a Wedding During the Pandemic
As we all know the Covid-19 outbreak at the beginning of 2020 rocked the entire world. Many things have changed. We’ve had to alter some things and make important decisions surrounding our daily lives. No longer are we able to go outside without wearing a mask and carrying a hand sanitizer has become more important than paying a bill.
Many businesses were forced to close as the effects from the pandemic limited and canceled many family gatherings and social events. One grand event that experienced many unexpected changes was wedding planning. This broke many couple’s hearts. The COVID-19 pandemic rocked the wedding industry so hard that many wedding venues had no choice but to close which left many couples in frustrated. Although many businesses now have put plans in place to proceed and many couples have decided to continue with their plans it’s still a bit concerning especially with the rise of the new Delta variant.
The most famous question for couples who are inviting guests is “Would it be safe to be around so many people?” Sadly this has become a fear for many. Although The Delta variant adds a new layer of concern for many, couples are still proceeding with caution adding safety measures like masks wearing, hand sanitizing stations, smaller guest counts, alternative seating arrangements, choosing safer ways of serving foods and other precautions.
As couples move forward with their wedding plans, here are a few tips to consider on how to proceed safely while planning your wedding during a pandemic.
- Keep Informed and Follow Local Guidelines – it’s important that you stay informed with rules and regulations for your specific area. Keep in mind that rules and regulations differ by state. Some areas may even require vaccinations for entry to venues so staying up to date is very important.
- Hire a Wedding Planner – as you already know planning a wedding during a pandemic is not a very simple task. If you’ve never thought of hiring a wedding planner, now is the time to do so. They will ensure that you have a great experience while making sure there are proper safety measures in place.
- Consult With Your Venue – maintain an open and honest conversation with your venue. Be sure to ask about their rules and guidelines. You want to ensure that they are taking proper precautions and they have safety measures in place. Be sure they are up-to-date with the latest local, state and federal safety guidelines. Remember to also inquire about their social distancing and sanitation policy. What is their cancellation policy if rules should change? What contingency plan do they have in place? As of now, choosing an outdoor venue is an awesome idea. This option is indeed covid-friendly, as more people tend to feel more comfortable attending an outdoor event. Though it doesn’t prevent anyone from contracting the virus it does minimize the risk with proper social distancing and other healthy protocols in place.
- Don’t be Afraid to Downsize your Wedding Guest List – this decision may be a difficult one to make but it’s definitely necessary. Keep in mind that a smaller guest list is extremely manageable especially during this time and the reason for your decision to downsize is to reduce the risk of getting anyone exposed. A smaller guest list will also make your guests feel more comfortable. So consider an intimate wedding for the safety of yourselves and guests.
- Inform your Guests on your Wedding Website Regarding the Guidelines for your Wedding Day – do you have a wedding website? Your wedding website is the perfect place to outline the safety and sanitation measures you’ve put in place regarding COVID-19. This will bring clarity for your guests and alleviate any confusion. Be clear when outlining all guidelines. Be sure to inform your guest about mask wearing, sanitizing, social distancing and everything else you’d like them to know. The https://www.theknot.com/gs/wedding-websitesb is a great place to build your wedding website.
- Adjust your Wedding Seating Layout Plan – keep your wedding guests safe by spacing them out and reorganizing seating arrangements. For the ceremony, instead of placing seats together where they have to scoot down the rows to be seated, have them stand during the ceremony to keep everyone at a distance. Keep in mind the length of your ceremony remembering that your guest will be standing. There may be guests who are not able to stand, have a few spaced out seating available. For the reception, space out seating as much as possible. Limit having too many guests at one table. Speak directly to your venue coordinator and find a creative and safe layout for your wedding.
- Speak to your Venue Coordinator and Cater Regarding Food Service – as of now plated meals are the most simplest and sanitary option. We also recommend custom plating hors d’oeuvres to minimize close contact and food handling/passing. We also recommend that all chefs and servers wear masks and gloves for proper safety measures. Bars and other counters should have plexiglass screens as well. For bar services, instead of having guests approach the bar and stand in line, opt for table services instead. Missing the whole idea of serving up a pretty signature drink? Speak directly to your wedding and venue coordinator to find creative ways to serve your wedding beverages.
- Safety is Priority – To keep you and your guest safe remember to put safety measures in place. Provide gentle reminders on wedding signage like mask wearing, sanitizing, handwashing, maintaining social distancing and all guidelines you’ve put in place. Remember to also limit contact with shared objects like pens. If guests will be signing your guest book, provide a “clean pen” and “used pen” jar. Another idea is to offer “shared items” as keepsakes to limit contact. To be extra careful, you could consider doing temperature checks upon guest arrival, or if you feel more comfortable, ask guests to provide a negative test or vaccine confirmation before your wedding day.
Love is not canceled and your wedding don’t have to be either. However do have a serious conversation with your partner coming to terms that you both will have to make a few important decisions and adjustments for your wedding during this pandemic error. Keep in mind that you both are still in love and will still celebrate your love story together. Don’t get discouraged, plan
safely and accordingly with an open mind. Life is not perfect, things are constantly changing, we just have to adjust ourselves and make the best of what we have. Minimonies and micro-weddings have become a popular solution for many couples since the outbreak of COVID-19. Who says bigger is always better? Opt for an intimate, memorable mini-wedding then if you choose to, plan a larger wedding celebration with all your family and friends at a later date. Happy planning and make a choice to enjoy every moment!
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