How Couples Are Taking COVID Precautions For Summer Weddings
The “wedding boom” is here — so don’t be surprised if you get tons of wedding invitations in the mail for a few back-to-back summer weddings!
As the world begins to open up again, between the vaccine rollout and CDC mask guidance changing, more couples are opting to hold their long-awaited weddings. From 2020 couples who postponed their nuptials to 2021 couples who always intended to have a summer wedding, celebrating with more than just a few guests is finally possible. But, even though conditions have vastly improved, the pandemic is not over yet. Many couples will still be including certain COVID precautions in the planning and execution of their wedding to keep all guests and staff safe. These precautions can look different for everybody, depending on how large your guest count is, but there are a few things all couples should keep in mind for their upcoming weddings. Here are some of the precautions couples should consider when planning their summer wedding!
Work With Your Vendors
Chances are, if you’ve had to postpone your wedding or navigate the planning process during COVID, you’ve been working very closely with your vendors. Ensure the safety of your guests and their staff by having a discussion about safety protocols. Make sure their staff will have the proper protective gear, be tested regularly, and use gloves when serving or handling any food or other items. You will also want to discuss how any catering vendors will be offering their services. It is still recommended that individually packaged food or served items are provided instead of buffets and self-service appetizers, like a charcuterie board, that tend to be touch hotspots.
Photography by Cassidy Lynne
via Pinterest
Provide Hand Sanitizer
Encourage guests to sanitize their hands whenever necessary by setting up hand sanitizer stations at your wedding. You can place these in a few spots at your ceremony and reception sites for guests to easily sanitize before meals, during cocktail hour, etc. If you want to incorporate this safety precaution into your decor or wedding theme, create fun signage to include with your sanitizer dispensers. You can also purchase small sanitizers to hand out to all of your guests, if your guest count and budget allow, as they enter the ceremony or reception area, which could also double as a wedding favor!
Create Open Floor Plans
It’s important to create an environment that all guests will feel safe in, which is why an open floor plan is a great option. Not only does it give your guests more space to move around in, but it also creates a seating chart with built-in social distancing. Keep all reception tables at least six feet apart and use your best judgment when it comes to ceremony seating. If you are renting seating, space out the chairs or benches at a socially distant length. If you are unable to move the seating because it is built-in or are working with a smaller space, consider asking guests to take every other seat or sit with those they have arrived with.
Photography by Courtney Chau Photography
Photography by Emily Boudreau
Outside Affair
A little fresh air will do everybody some good! If you are getting married in an especially scenic venue, you may prefer to get married outside to enjoy the view and summer weather. But, hosting your wedding outside will also create a safer environment for all of your guests and staff. The constant flow of air will provide better ventilation and is considered a much more low-risk event than one that is held inside. Just make sure to have a backup plan in place in case of any major weather changes that may affect your wedding, depending on your location.
Communicate With Guests
Properly prepare your guests for your big day by letting them know the intentions of your event in a note you include with your wedding invitations. You can include the precautions you will be taking, whether you will be requiring masks for any or all guests, if you will be asking guests to get tested, etc. This will allow your guests to know all of the details before attending, giving them the chance to make an informed RSVP decision. It also shows them that you care about their comfortability and safety, which can ease their minds about their attendance.
Photography by In Our Image Photos
Share this with a bride who is planning a summer or late 2021 wedding. Searching for a last-minute wedding dress? Browse our collection of beautiful wedding gowns that are priced at $1,200 or less and will be on your doorstep in just 8 weeks!
Other Topics You May Be Interested In
