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Much like everything else during a global pandemic, couples around the country are scrambling to figure out how to have or plan a wedding while practicing social distancing. While it may not be what most envision for their nuptials, there are ways to continue with wedding planning and even have a wedding during a global pandemic.
Wedding planning and the coronavirus
Be aware that you may need to postpone.
You may need to pick a future date if your plans don't adhere to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's guidelines for events and gatherings. Wedding venues unable to stick to these guidelines may opt to cancel and postpone weddings during the coronavirus pandemic. Some couples have also decided to halt wedding planning.
Megan Mace, of the pop duo Megan and Liz, has been discussing her wedding planning process on YouTube and recently expressed her hesitation. "My wedding is in October but realistically there's not enough of a way to tell yet." So she has decided to wait things out. "I don't want to make more work for myself than I have to. I figure its easier to just plan once than to plan, unplan and then re-plan," she explained in her Wedding Wednesdays video planning series.
Say yes to the dress online.
Part of the fun of choosing a wedding gown is gathering with the bridal party and trying on different options. But buying online works, too. Some online bridal shops offer the option to purchase online and return. Smaller boutiques may let brides purchase a sample, or schedule a time to come in to try on dresses. It may not be the wedding dress experience most brides are seeking, but the past few months have required a lot of flexibility and pivoting, and wedding gown shopping is no different.
Have a virtual bachelorette party.
While it's not the same as an in-person night out with your best girlfriends, a virtual party on Zoom may be a way to stay socially distant while coming together for a fun night in. Many sip and paint businesses are holding virtual events that allow friends to get together online and paint right along with an instructor. With countless online party options like wine or cooking supplies parties, there's bound to be something that works for every bride's interest.
Get your marriage license online.
If you're in the wedding planning stages during the coronavirus, performing mundane tasks may be especially difficult. With state offices closed or operating with reduced hours, getting an appointment for necessities like marriage licenses can be a challenge.
New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo spoke recently spoke about weddings and marriage licenses. "There's now no excuse when the question comes up for marriage. No excuse, you can do it by Zoom," Cuomo said during one of his daily COVID-19 press conference updates. Not all state governments have in place the executive order that allows for virtual licensing and ceremonies. Couples can research the availability in their state.
Coronavirus wedding venue ideas
Consider a small backyard wedding.
A small, intimate setting is ideal if you're able to narrow down your guest list to a manageable number. Couples who have had their events canceled by larger venues are taking things into their own hands. Intimate backyard weddings have been popular in recent months. Couples are even taking catering to a new level by bringing food trucks in. A mobile food truck can add a cute touch to a cozy backyard wedding.
Sarah and William Ellis own and operate the Mellow Cafe Food Truck, a perfect addition to events like socially distant weddings and graduations. This business model is ideal for a backyard brunch wedding. "Inviting a mobile coffee shop to be a part of your special day will still allow you the opportunity to connect with friends and family while practicing social distancing in the fresh air," Sarah told Mom.com
Stream your wedding for friends and family.
A wedding livestream may work for you if your first priority is marrying the love of your life. Couples can plan to meet up with an officiant to perform the wedding ceremony. Once everything is in place, it's simply a matter of setting up the cameras. Wedfuly has coordinated with Zoom to provide streaming wedding services for couples looking to get married during COVID-19 restrictions. More do-it-yourself type couples opt to livestream through YouTube or Facebook Live.
COVID-19 honeymoon tips
Consider a staycation honeymoon.
This is a great, safe choice for couples who aren't comfortable with traveling. A staycation may not be the blissful tropical getaway most brides hope for, but whether it's on a mini road trip to the mountains, tackling a home improvement project together, or exploring the history of your own city, it's the quality time together that matters.
Buy honeymoon insurance.
This is a smart option for couples who decide to take their honeymoon during the COVID-19 global pandemic. While none of us are really sure what the fall months hold in terms of the coronavirus, putting off a wedding any time of year has its challenges. When planning a wedding, or any vacation for that matter, buying travel insurance is a smart idea.
