Written by: Alexandra Sferra
Covid-19 has changed every detail in our lives today, and it is absolutely mind blowing to even think about what is going on.On top of the stress and anxiety that that holds, you’re now planning a wedding during a freaking global pandemic… awesome. With restrictions on what to eat, how close to stand, and how many people can attend your own wedding, planning a safe event are going to have its’ challenges.
Some couples have opted for the virtual wedding option or postponing all together but know you do not have to do any of that, and there are ways to still have your beautiful celebration of love and still play it safe. First and foremost, you must make sure you are following the safety guidelines set by local, state and federal authorities. Since states are going through phases of opening and closing, check with your state to ensure the phase you are in now and what it looks like it will be on the day of your wedding. Obviously, that is impossible to know for sure, but usually you can get a pretty good gauge on what to expect since we are a little far into the pandemic and things are staying open.
Here are some tips to ensure you are planning a safe wedding:
1. Find out your venue’s new capacity rules
This is for the brides who are holding their wedding at a venue versus private areas. Since the pandemic started, venues have had to change their capacity guidelines. Check with yours to adjust accordingly.
2. Space out the ceremony for your guests
Working with your venue helps, or using various software’s found online to organize your seating to make sure social distancing is in order.
3. Space you, your fiancé and your officiant
Placing tape will help space out everyone upfront, including yourselves and even the bridal party along with the officiant.It is important to make sure you are safe, along with everyone else involved upfront. Some couples even hand the officiant a microphone and stand them off to the side to get the job done!
4. Consider moving the wedding to a larger space
I know, moving then entire wedding seems scary, but moving it to a larger area if you had planned on it being inside in a smaller building, is necessary. Usually, having an outside wedding during the pandemic, it will allow you to have all your guests as planned and more guests will feel safe to attend and let loose while feeling safe.
5. Adjust your guest list
When evaluating on who can and cannot come, take into account those who have to travel long distances. You could even invite them but note that it is understandable considering the situation if they cannot make it.
6. Adding a live stream option
Live streaming the ceremony or setting up a zoom meeting is a great idea, especially for the older folks who want to see you get married to the love of your life, but physically can’t.
7. Discuss food options
Having a buffet may not be the way to go when it comes to the food being served at your wedding because it could potentially be putting people at risk. Ask your caterer to serve plated meals instead, oral alternatives to buffet style.
8. Sanitizing stations
Make sure you have hand sanitizer in areas around the ceremony and reception to make your guests feel safe, and to ensure that everyone has clean hands when it comes to touching things and each other!
Overall, make sure to discuss all solutions and alternatives that can be made to ensure that you and your guests are completely safe. Being comfortable is important for you and your guests so you can focus more on enjoying the day, and celebrating in the moment!
