While living through these crazy times, there are still moments of joy that should be celebrated - and your wedding day should be one of them! With the pandemic still in everyone's mind, it can be easy to feel scared or worried about how your big day might be affected. Fear not, as experts from the wedding industry have shared their tips on how to make the proper modifications to celebrate in style and still follow proper guidelines and safety protocols. Read below to check out some great advice you can implement into your gathering!
Opt for Alternative Set Ups
The Edgewater Hotel is finding fun ways to have couples adapt to be safe while also having a nontraditional look! "As an alternative to a traditional ballroom reception set up, guests may opt for a unique floating barge event experience. This unique venue can play stage to the host’s band while wedding guests dance and imbibe on their private waterfront balconies and soak in incredible views of Elliott Bay.” This aligns with their effort to provide both socially distanced and memorable affairs.
Comfortably Distanced
Grand Event Rentals suggests that couples use up any space that they have. Expand your dining areas, reception, and ceremony space, or create a private event in your own backyard with fully customizable tents and structures. Be sure to check them out if you are looking to rent these items to make your space COVID-friendly.
Bring the Outdoors In
If outdoor weddings just are not your thing, The Hyatt at Olive 8 has some advice for you. As Di Gomoward, Area Associate Director of Events for A Seattle Collection, suggests, "With creative lighting and a few well-placed centerpieces, you can bring the outdoors in. Additionally, social distancing measures are top of mind. We recommend pod seating alongside lounge areas to keep guests comfortable while creating an intimate environment."
Set The Tone
Just because you are making some changes to your big day, doesn't mean you have to put a halt to throwing a great party! Bamboo Beats tells couples, "Even if a full-on dance party is not in the cards, please consider hiring an experienced DJ to create an uplifting musical mood that brings guests together in an ethereal, loving, albeit socially distanced way." Create a cool ambiance with your music, and set the tone with how you want your night to go with the perfect music!
Preparation Is Key
If there is one thing couples absolutely need to do while planning, is be prepared for sudden changes. Alderbrook Resort & Spa recommends couples to "make a tiered list of invites so you are prepared as restrictions lift or get tighter. Plan on staggering when you send out invites to allow for less correspondence as things change during the planning process. Have a backup plan and a backup plan to the backup plan. Be prepared for anything and actively discuss what you are okay with forgoing and what is important to maintain as restrictions come and go." While this might feel like an extra step, it is crucial during these times as restrictions can change at the drop of a hat. At the end of the day, it will be worth it so you do not have too much stress during the final days leading up to your wedding!
