The past year has brought about a seismic shift in our daily lives, as the global pandemic has forced us to adapt and evolve at an unprecedented pace. For many, 2020 has been marked by unexpected career changes, prolonged periods of isolation, and a desperate need to reimagine every aspect of our routines to prioritize safety and public health. Amidst this chaos, one of the most pressing concerns for couples has been navigating the complexities of planning a wedding amidst COVID-19.
From costly cancellations to virtual celebrations, lovebirds have had to get creative in order to make their special day a reality. As we continue to navigate these uncharted waters, here are some innovative and practical ideas for making your wedding a success despite the challenges posed by the pandemic.
Pros and Cons of Having a COVID Wedding
While some may struggle with the decision to proceed with a COVID-19 wedding, others see it as an opportunity to reimagine the traditional celebration. On one hand, safety concerns are paramount – any social gathering carries inherent risks, and the memory of your special day could be marred by negative outcomes. Additionally, a coronavirus wedding will likely diverge significantly from the vision you had for your big day.
However, with a willingness to adapt and adjust expectations, there are numerous safe and thrilling ways to bring your COVID-19 wedding to life, fostering a unique and memorable experience that injects hope and joy into a challenging time.
Planning a Wedding During COVID 19
When planning your wedding amidst a global pandemic, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed by the added pressures. Every aspect of your special day will be influenced by COVID-19, from sourcing your dress to adapting events outdoors. The key is to approach each decision with a thoughtful consideration of how it may be impacted by the pandemic. Start by reviewing traditional wedding planning elements like venue, theme, and guest list, but don’t forget to factor in the current climate.
This proactive approach will help you feel confident that you’ve accounted for every potential issue.
If you’ve already chosen to postpone your wedding, you can likely build upon your original plans with some adjustments to accommodate social distancing and public health measures. It’s all about finding creative solutions to make your celebration safe, beautiful, and enjoyable for your guests.
That said, there are certain aspects of a traditional wedding that require special attention – think dancing, favors, and the bar. Below, we’ll offer a few ideas to help you modify these elements and ensure your big day is nothing short of spectacular.
Virtual Wedding Ideas
In recent times, couples have been embracing innovative ways to make their special day more inclusive and accessible. One such approach has been to live-stream their ceremony over video conferencing platforms like Zoom. This option has proven particularly beneficial for those with loved ones who may not be able to physically attend the event due to various reasons, allowing them to still feel a part of the celebration.
For instance, individuals with at-risk family members can now participate remotely and enjoy the joyous occasion from anywhere in the world.
Zoom Weddings
To create an intimate atmosphere for the big day, choose a picturesque ‘venue’ – even if it’s just your coziest room at home – and add some thoughtful decorations that will be visible over Zoom. This can include candles, flowers, or other personal touches that make the space feel special.
Another way to bridge the distance gap is by hosting virtual toasts!
You can have a bottle of bubbly sent to each attendee, and invite a few loved ones to share heartfelt stories about you and your new spouse. This can be a powerful way to create a sense of connection with your guests, even when you’re not physically together.
While some may worry that an online wedding lacks intimacy, these types of personal touches can actually help foster a deeper sense of community and celebration.
Live Stream Your Wedding
Incorporating virtual elements into your wedding can be an excellent way to include distant friends and family who wouldn’t be able to attend due to health and safety restrictions. One unique approach is to host an intimate in-person ceremony and then live stream it online for those who couldn’t be there in person. This allows you to share the experience with a broader audience, ensuring that everyone feels included and connected to your special day.
When it comes to live streaming, there are various platforms to choose from, including YouTube, Facebook Live, and others. If budget or logistics make hiring a professional difficult, consider enlisting the help of a trusted friend or family member who’s comfortable behind the camera. With their help, you can capture the ceremony in high quality and share it with your loved ones worldwide.
Share Recordings
When live streaming seems too daunting, consider recording the highlights of your special day instead. This way, you can share cherished moments with loved ones after the fact. Encourage your best man and maid of honor to pre-record their heartfelt speeches, perfect for sharing even if they’re unable to attend in person. Not only will this be a thoughtful gesture for those who couldn’t make it, but it’ll also allow you to relive your wedding day years from now.
COVID Safe Outdoor Wedding Ceremony Ideas
While an outdoor wedding may seem like a no-brainer for safety, it’s essential to remember that even in wide open spaces, precautions are still necessary to mitigate the risk of COVID transmission. To achieve this balance, consider incorporating measures such as social distancing and mask-wearing into your celebration. By doing so, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all your guests.
Backyard Wedding at Home
There’s something undeniably charming about a backyard wedding. When weather permits, exchanging vows amidst lush greenery or serene surroundings can evoke a sense of intimacy and nostalgia. If you’re considering this unique setting for your big day, start by brainstorming ideas to make it truly special. Think creative uses of space, personalized touches, and memorable moments with loved ones.
By incorporating these elements, you’ll create an unforgettable experience that’s as warm as the sentiment.
Beach Weddings During COVID
A beach wedding has long been the ultimate dream for many couples. The picturesque setting not only offers breathtaking scenery but also provides an effortless way to maintain social distancing among guests. With its serene atmosphere and natural beauty, it’s no wonder why a beach ceremony has become a top choice for those seeking a memorable and idyllic celebration.
Outdoor Weddings and Cold Weather
When unpredictable weather threatens to ruin an outdoor reception, consider renting a tent with heaters as a contingency plan. Many tent rental companies offer space heaters for rent alongside their tents, providing a cozy and comfortable alternative. By opting for a tented reception in your own backyard, you not only save on venue costs but also reap the benefits of being outdoors while still enjoying a safe and sheltered atmosphere.
Other Outdoor Spaces
When it comes to planning a safe and memorable wedding, there are several outdoor spaces that can provide the perfect setting for your special day. Consider deserts, parks, and forests, which offer ample space for guests to spread out while also providing a beautiful natural backdrop for photos and memories. The scenic views and wide open spaces of these areas can help create a sense of freedom and joy, making them an excellent choice for couples looking to keep their celebration safe and fun.
Socially Distant Wedding Ideas
As we navigate the ongoing pandemic, one key takeaway has been the importance of social distancing. This concept typically involves taking precautions when in public or at a social gathering by maintaining a safe physical distance from others, spending time outdoors, and donning face coverings. For many, this has led to an outdoor wedding becoming the new norm – and for good reason. The risk of COVID-19 transmission is significantly reduced when events are held outside.
Furthermore, encouraging guests to gather in small, dispersed ‘pods’ rather than congregating in large groups has also been a recommended approach.
Spread Out the Ceremony
When planning a COVID-safe wedding, it’s essential to prioritize social distancing during the ceremony. Instead of traditional rows of seats packed with guests, consider setting up chairs at a safe distance from each other. To minimize intermingling and promote distancing, you can assign seating in advance. This approach ensures that those living together are seated together, while maintaining sufficient space between groups.
By taking these precautions, you’ll create a safer and more comfortable environment for your guests.
Pod Seating
If hosting an outdoor wedding isn’t feasible, it’s crucial to rethink your indoor seating arrangement to create more space between table settings. This can be achieved by strategically placing tables and encouraging minimal mingling among guests seated separately. To reinforce social distancing guidelines, consider using signs or visual reminders throughout the venue.
When designing your pod-style seating chart, prioritize grouping people who are comfortable sitting together, ideally those already familiar with each other, such as family members or roommates. As a courtesy to your guests and a personal safety measure, consider wearing a mask when visiting with them.
Micro Weddings
For those who find the prospect of hosting a large gathering amidst social distancing measures overwhelming, consider scaling down to an intimate micro wedding. This option typically involves inviting only immediate family members and possibly a few close friends, such as bridesmaids and groomsmen. If feasible, having everyone quarantine beforehand and undergo testing can also help ensure the safety of your guests.
A micro wedding can be a lovely way to celebrate with your closest loved ones, offering an unprecedented level of intimacy. To accommodate those who won’t be able to attend in person, you can utilize our virtual wedding ideas to live stream or share your special day with the rest of your guest list afterwards.
Creative Ideas for a COVID Safe Wedding
As you plan your COVID-19 adapted wedding, you’ve likely tackled the big decisions: choosing a venue that fits your needs, deciding on an indoor or outdoor setting, and curating a thoughtful guest list. Now, it’s time to focus on the finer points of creating a celebratory atmosphere despite the unique challenges of this era. Discover how to thoughtfully adjust every detail to ensure your special day still feels like, well, a wedding.
Sanitizer Stations
To further enhance the guest experience, consider providing ample opportunities for them to maintain personal hygiene throughout the event. This can be achieved by designating a dedicated area where individuals can easily access sanitizer and other essentials. To take it to the next level, incorporate convenient amenities like table wipes or even hand sanitizer stations that dispense fresh supplies as needed.
Spread Love Not Germs Signs
As the world navigates the challenges of COVID-19, couples planning to tie the knot are no exception. The pandemic has undoubtedly changed the wedding landscape, but that’s not to say you can’t make it a memorable and joyous celebration! In fact, there are plenty of creative ways to adapt to the new normal. Take, for instance, incorporating clever signs with tongue-in-cheek phrases like ‘Spread Love, Not Germs’ or ‘Love is Infectious, But So is COVID-19’.
These signs not only add a touch of whimsy to your wedding decor but also serve as gentle reminders for your guests to prioritize their health and safety. By doing so, you’ll be able to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that’s just as magical as any traditional wedding.
Matching Masks
To address concerns about the aesthetic appeal of masks, consider creating a custom design that complements your wedding attire. A bespoke mask in matching colors or patterns to your dress can create a stunning visual cohesion. This approach not only ensures your mask is fashionable but also reinforces the overall wedding theme. Additionally, having your wedding party wear coordinated masks in the same hues as your wedding colors will further enhance the sense of unity and style.
Send Welcome Baskets Ahead of Time
As the world continues to navigate the challenges of coronavirus, couples are finding creative ways to adapt their wedding plans. One innovative approach is sending welcome baskets to guests prior to the big day. These thoughtful gestures not only show appreciation for out-of-town attendees but also provide a practical solution for maintaining safety at the event.
Consider including essential items such as face masks, hand sanitizer, and clear instructions on how to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. By doing so, you’ll alleviate any concerns or confusion guests may have about wearing masks or practicing social distancing. Simply include this information on your wedding website or send out regular email updates in the weeks leading up to the wedding date.
This proactive approach will not only put your mind at ease but also show that you’re committed to prioritizing the well-being of your loved ones and their guests.
Social Distancing Wristbands
Imagine a scenario where you’re surrounded by people at an event or gathering, and you’re not quite sure who is open to conversation or physical touch. To bridge this gap, consider implementing a simple yet effective solution: providing guests with colored wristbands that serve as a visual cue for their comfort level. The options could be something like ‘talk to me’, ‘give me a hug’, or ‘personal space, please’.
This not only encourages people to communicate their boundaries but also fosters a sense of community and understanding. You can find customizable wristband sets on Etsy to make this concept a reality.
Tailgate Wedding
When planning an outdoor wedding, it’s not necessary to sacrifice guest interaction for safety. With a spacious venue, you can create a unique and memorable experience by hosting a ‘pod-style’ celebration. Imagine having individual groups of guests separated enough to maintain social distancing, yet still able to see the action unfold as you make your way down the aisle.
Depending on the location, guests can even stay in their vehicles like at an outdoor movie theater, but with the added bonus of being able to celebrate with you while donning masks for safety. This format allows each group to mingle and toast to your special day from a safe distance, making it possible to still feel included and connected to your celebration.
Safe Food Service
When planning a wedding amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s crucial to prioritize safety in all aspects of the event. One essential step in this direction is to opt for a service-style meal instead of a buffet. The latter can be particularly risky due to the inherent contact between guests and food. In a buffet setting, individuals are encouraged to touch, handle, and congregate around each other’s plates, creating an ideal environment for virus transmission.
By contrast, a service-style meal allows for more controlled and individualized food distribution, significantly reducing the risk of cross-contamination. If possible, consider shifting your menu toward this safer approach, where each guest’s food is carefully brought to them, minimizing unnecessary contact between diners.
Serving Drinks During COVID-19
When it comes to drinks and bar management, another key consideration is crowd control. To alleviate the issue of lengthy lines at the bar, consider implementing a unique approach: placing two bottles of wine, one red and one white, on each table. This strategy limits drink sharing to within each guest’s ‘pod’ or group, reducing the likelihood of overcrowding. Additionally, serving beers in cans can help minimize open-air exposure, further contributing to a more relaxed atmosphere.
Skip the Cash Bar
When hosting a bar at your event, prioritize the safety of your guests by taking precautions against the spread of germs. Ensure that both bartenders and patrons wear masks to prevent respiratory droplets from being transmitted. Additionally, consider forgoing the cash bar option to avoid the exchange of physical money, which can harbor germs. Instead, opt for an open bar policy where drinks are served without the need for physical currency.
This will not only reduce the risk of germ transmission but also minimize contact with high-touch items like credit card readers.
Disposable Cameras
Lawn Games
While traditional dancing might not be feasible during the ceremony, you can still create a lively and engaging atmosphere by incorporating fun wedding activities. One idea is to utilize board games or trivia questions that can be enjoyed from a safe social distance. Consider leaving small games on each table for guests to play while mingling, or set up cornhole stations with gentle competition.
These low-key games can help break the ice and create a sense of community among your loved ones, even when physical distancing is necessary.
Take the Opportunity to be Charitable
When faced with the dilemma of having a non-refundable catering deposit due to unforeseen circumstances, consider reaching out to the catering company to explore alternative options. Instead of letting the food go to waste, discuss the possibility of donating it to those in need. This thoughtful approach not only helps alleviate some of the financial burden but also makes a positive impact on your community.
Take inspiration from this couple in Ohio who used their non-refundable catering contract as an opportunity to give back to their area, making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Honor Lost Loved Ones
As we gaze upon the beauty of Clarks Landing’s picturesque scenery, our hearts are reminded of the countless lives lost to COVID-19. For many, the pandemic has taken its toll on families, resulting in the loss of beloved loved ones who would have otherwise celebrated with us on this special day. In times like these, it’s essential we acknowledge and honor those who can no longer be with us.
One meaningful way to do so is by setting up a memorial table at your wedding, adorned with cherished photos and mementos that tell the stories of their lives. Allow the memories of your loved ones to serve as a poignant reminder of the precious time we have together, and let the joy of your special day be a testament to the enduring power of love.
COVID Themed Wedding Favors
As couples navigate the complexities of planning a wedding amidst the ongoing pandemic, embracing the unique circumstances can lead to a memorable and meaningful celebration. Consider incorporating small tokens or mementos into your wedding favors, serving as a poignant reminder of your special day despite the challenging times. These thoughtful gestures can help create a sense of unity and gratitude among your guests, ultimately making your COVID wedding a cherished experience for all involved.
Hand Sanitizer
Offering personalized hand sanitizer at each guest’s table setting is a thoughtful touch that serves multiple purposes. Not only does it provide a practical favor for guests to take with them, but it also doubles as a unique memento of the celebration. With their names or initials prominently displayed on the bottle, this small gesture can become a cherished reminder of the special day. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to show your appreciation and leave a lasting impression.
Custom Face Masks
Personalize your wedding festivities by gifting custom-made masks that not only serve as a practical reminder for your guests to wear face coverings but also become a unique conversation piece. A tasteful nod to the special day, these fabric masks can be designed with subtle references to your union, adding an element of whimsy and humor to the overall atmosphere. As an added bonus, they’ll help ensure everyone stays safe and healthy throughout the celebration.
Getting Creative in the time of COVID
As we navigate the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic, it’s crucial not to lose our sense of humor. Amidst the gloom, laughter can be a powerful tool for coping with adversity. In fact, incorporating COVID-themed elements into your wedding celebration can be a brilliant way to add a personal touch and bring some levity to an otherwise solemn occasion.
By embracing creative solutions, couples can turn their special day into an unforgettable experience.
This might involve trading formalities for a casual barbecue vibe or crafting humorous signs that poke fun at the pandemic’s absurdities. Ultimately, it’s about finding ways to adapt and keep the spirit of celebration alive despite the extraordinary circumstances.
Making the Most of Your COVID Wedding
As the reality of a COVID wedding sets in, it’s essential to shift your focus from disappointment to making the most of this unique situation. Embracing the unconventional aspects of your special day, like masked photoshoots, can actually become a memorable and treasured part of your wedding story.
The key to navigating a COVID-safe wedding is striking a delicate balance between prioritizing safety for all attendees and incorporating personal touches that make the celebration meaningful and enjoyable. By adapting your plans according to the ideas shared earlier, you’ll be able to create an unforgettable experience that you’ll cherish for years to come.
Of course, it’s also perfectly reasonable to decide that it’s best to wait until conditions are safer before hosting a larger wedding. Ultimately, it’s essential to prioritize what matters most – your health, the health of your loved ones, and the joy of celebrating your special day.
Read More About Safely Gathering
When embarking on the wedding planning journey, it’s essential to consider intimate gatherings. For those newly beginning their wedding planning process, exploring small wedding ideas can be a fantastic starting point. However, with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it’s crucial to prioritize your guests’ health and safety. To achieve this, follow the CDC event guidelines as well as local laws to ensure that your special day is both memorable and risk-free for all attendees.