How to Plan a Wedding During the COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on all of our lives. We are living in unprecedented times, and everything feels so unpredictable. You may have been planning to get married this year and at this point, you're probably considering rescheduling your wedding. Or maybe you have decided that you just won’t have the wedding of your dreams, opting for an online ceremony or a small gathering of 10 or less people.
It’s tough, and you are allowed to be upset. It’s stressful enough planning a wedding, let alone having to deal with rescheduling and working within these new health guidelines. I know it’s disappointing to have to reschedule or make other compromises to your wedding day. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with some solutions to ease your wedding planning woes during these difficult times!
Here are some helpful tips for dealing with planning your wedding during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Reschedule with your vendors instead of cancelling if possible
You chose your vendors for a reason and they will still want to work with you in the future if possible. More than likely you've had to pay a deposit fee to your vendors to reserve their services for your date. If you are no longer able to have your wedding on that date, try to reschedule with the vendors to a date that most, if not all, of them are available. You should also look over your contracts to see what their rescheduling/cancellation policies are. Although deposits are usually non-refundable, you may be able to get a partial refund depending on the terms of the contract, if you ultimately decide to cancel.
Book a venue next year ASAP
Due to the number of rescheduled weddings, venues are likely going to be in even higher demand next year than usual. Try to secure your venue as soon as you can.
Take the opportunity to have a small intimate wedding
If you were dreading the idea of having a huge wedding, you could see the restrictions as an opportunity to have only your closest family and friends with you. I have noticed that couples who have smaller, intimate weddings often enjoy their day more because they have less to worry about! You can also livestream your wedding for the people who are unable to attend.
Have your wedding ceremony outside
Although you should still follow physical distancing guidelines, being outside with fresh circulating air is much safer than being in an enclosed space. Plus it’s so nice to be outdoors, and can make for some beautiful photography/videography.
Pro tip: try to have your ceremony in the shade or at sunset for the most flattering lighting ;)
Celebrate on your original wedding date anyway
If you need to reschedule your wedding, make some plans to have fun on the original date. Buy a cake, get dressed up, play some music and dance the night away! Just because you can’t have your wedding on the original date doesn’t mean you shouldn’t enjoy it. Try to make the best of it - it was supposed to be your special day after all!