Weddings after COVID-19

Ceremony:

• Outdoor ceremonies are optimal for better airflow for guests. If there are only indoor options, think about having fewer guests in larger spaces. A smaller event in the present doesn’t mean you can’t have your full-sized version at a later date. The smaller the wedding, the more personal it can get, like having the time to hear speeches from all.
• Virtual weddings have become a trend to accommodate quarantine in 2020. Having a live stream of your day can be a fantastic option to include everyone on the guest list or anyone who is not able to join your intimate celebration for any reason.
• Ensure social distancing measures are accommodated: leave more space between chairs, ensure signage is visible, direct the flow of traffic, etc.
• Consider gloves as more of a timeless fashion statement (we see you, Audrey Hepburn), as they were traditionally used instead of PPE. Perhaps provide personalized gloves and masks as favours for your guests.

Reception:

• As with the ceremony, an outdoor venue is most favourable, but in the case of an indoor option only, ensure your venue has a sanitation policy in place. How are they keeping their staff and guests safe? Make sure to ask as many questions to rest assured the venue and vendors are taking all the precautions necessary. If your venue does not have a sanitation station set up, remember to provide sanitizers, masks and gloves.
• Opt out of the traditional receiving lines, instead thank your guests for coming during the dinner portion of the night
• More time and thought will need to be placed on seating arrangements. Try less guests per table (instead of 10 people per table, seat only 5-6) and try to seat your guests according to household or susceptibility.
• For catering, new rules and etiquette will have to be implemented. We recommend choosing plated meals instead of family-style or serve-yourself options. Cocktail hour may need a new look as well. Ask your caterers about items that are individual bites. Also think about offering serve-yourself drinks that can be disposed after.
• The biggest challenge in social distancing is to try to avoid a large crowd on the dance floor. A unique spin could include dance competition games, Trinity Bellwoods inspired floor “artwork” that maps out sections of the dancefloor, or even hiring a dance show or a concert for guests to watch will keep guests in their seats longer.

Now more than ever, the wedding planner pros are here to help. We are making it our duty to educate and guide our couples through this transitional time and advise on best practices. One thing is for certain, being together to celebrate these special moments will be more revered than ever and we can guarantee people will not take a moment for granted.