Planning a wedding is extremely stressful, but with the added uncertainty of a global pandemic, the event may end up becoming more than what you bargained for. But fear not, if you are in love and don’t want to postpone your wedding, planning a wedding during COVID-19 doesn’t have to be stressful. With a few precautions and changes, you can hold a perfectly safe wedding even during the pandemic.
You can get up-to-date information and guidance and support on coronavirus (COVID–19) through GOV.UK.
Getting hitched during COVID
Since there is no clear indication on when the current situation with the pandemic will improve, it is best to accept the fact that we will have to make do with following coronavirus guidelines. There have been positive developments, such as the widespread vaccination drive and the steady return to some semblance of normalcy. Couples who have already paid deposits and made bookings in particular, should just go ahead and have their wedding since cancelling may potentially lead to more expenses. This guide will help you plan a wedding that is not only beautiful and memorable but also compliant with COVID-19 protocols.
Here is a list of things you will need to do to ensure a safe and sound wedding:
Keep the guest list short
This is a no-brainer. The government has already warned against big events with many attendees as they can become super spreader events. The Gov.UK has advice and guidance designed to assist people planning to get married or form a civil partnership. There are some key dates as well with regards to the amount of numbers allowed. However, it is worth noting this will be subject to the outcome of the Scientific Events Research Programme and that these may change.
Top Tip: have different times for guests to attend in their bubbles. That way different bubbles can attend during different parts of the day.
Keeping the number of people in attendance low ensures that enforcing COVID protocols will be easier. You will not need to rent a huge venue to accommodate all the people and meet social distancing guidelines.
Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post
Limit guests traveling long-distance
Must have guests living nearby should be included but you might want to consider limiting the number of ‘must have’ guests who are far away. This is because the need to travel long distances can increase the possibility of contracting COVID. If they are overseas it might not even be possible for them to attend. If you do invite someone who is far away, they may also not want to travel so don’t be upset if they can’t attend.
Stream the wedding
Now, limiting the guest list doesn’t mean that those close to you cannot attend. Instead of taking part in the flesh, guests can be invited to an online event. Using technology and very little equipment, you can stream the entire event and get everyone involved in your grand event, even those who cannot be there in person. There are also really good wedding photos apps that can help you connect with your loved ones, like PhotoSwap, which helps you collect and share any photos taken by your guests on your big day.
Shop online
Shopping is an inevitable part of a wedding. No matter how simple you keep things, there are always items that need to be purchased. Decorations, flowers, clothes, shoes, the list goes on and on. The good thing is that now you can buy everything from a wedding dress to flowers online without any hassle. While most brides and grooms will still prefer to get their outfits fitted and tailored to the correct size, you can keep your shopping trips to a minimum by doing most of the buying online. There are several websites where you can choose your prom dress that would also be perfect for bridesmaids dresses too.
Check with the venue
Before you book a venue for your wedding, check what measures they have in place to protect you and your guests. Questions to ask include:
- Can you have an outdoor ceremony?
- Do they have a refund policy in case you have to cancel due to COVID-19?
- Can they move the dates if needed?
- How will they manage social distancing?
Top Tip: Some wedding insurance policies are not offering cover for Covid-19. Make sure you check what’s covered in the policy before taking one out. When paying for your venue consider using a credit card as you might be able to claim some money back if the services are not rendered. Check with your credit card company what refund you will be entitled to before you book.
Remember, the day is for you
Everyone has opinions about weddings at the best of times. Who should be invited, who should be seated together, who should be the bridesmaids, and on and on! Getting married during a pandemic makes it even more difficult to take everyone’s opinion into consideration. So don’t! The day is for you and your partner. It is difficult enough to create the wedding of your dreams. This is made so much harder with all the restrictions. Do what suits you and your husband/wife to be. Whilst you might want to take your loved ones opinion into consideration, remember it’s your special day and that is what matters!
Overall, you can plan and execute a lovely wedding even during a pandemic. You just need to be extra careful and make sure that you and all the guests follow government guidelines until these have been eased.
