What You Can Do If Your Wedding Is Affected By COVID-19
Many couples who planned on getting married are struggling amid the novel coronavirus pandemic and are faced with the stresses on how to go about it. In a period where isolation is disrupting the event industry, weddings are among the ones being affected. So what can you do if you and your fiancé are in this dilemma? Should you postpone or cancel your wedding? Or better yet, how can you keep coronavirus from ruining your big day? Consider the following tips.
Reduce Guest List
Chances are many of your guests are opting themselves out from attending your wedding anyway, especially the ones traveling from far. This would be the time to reduce your guest list and keep guests local to immediate family only.
Re-Visit Your Wedding Vendors
Check your contract and see what the policy is for cancellations or rescheduling. Look for the “Force Majeure” clause if available and re-visit with your wedding vendors to discuss options. It would be entirely up to your wedding vendor whether they would be flexible in a time of crisis, but don’t go with the expectations of getting your deposit refunded.
Consider Eloping
This could be your chance to elope on a beautiful mountain, in a forest or on a clifftop. Think about it! Not only would you be reducing wedding costs and guests, you would only have close friends and family, away from big crowded areas or cities, and your pictures and video would look amazing!
Marry Now, Celebrate Later
This is tricky but also an option. This will involve waiting to see how things play out with the virus and once the situation has been cleared to socialize as normal. If you go this route, a simple ceremony at the courthouse, at your church, or even in the intimacy of your backyard is a great way to do this. This will require good communication with your guests and vendors to pick a new day to celebrate big.
Live Stream Your Wedding
If the show must go on but don’t want your loved ones to miss out on the event, have someone live-stream the event. Social Media platforms, like Facebook and Instragram, allow for people to see live what is being recorded. Prerecorded speeches can help, too. Although this may not be the most ideal situation for everyone, it works in this time of emergency.
Ask Your Venue About Cleaning Procedures
It’s okay to ask about the cleaning plan and what they have done to enhance their cleaning procedures in a time of pandemic crisis. Ask what cleaning procedures will be implemented before and during your wedding, whether hand sanitizing stations will be available for guests. The same goes for hotels.
Practice Social Distancing Etiquette
Encourage your guests to practice good hygiene etiquette. A “Hygienic Hello”, such as a wave or an elbow bump is a good way to be considerate with others during this time. Keep handshaking, hugs and kisses to a minimal and follow the recommended space in feet whenever possible if socializing with people. Also, be mindful of any food items or serving stations that would be left in the open.
It’s still possible to celebrate your wedding day. Remember, to every problem, there is a solution.