Love Must Go On: Answers For How to Throw a Wedding During COVID-19
May 27, 2020
Just because this Mia Thermopolis meme is a little too relatable right now doesn't mean that you should let COVID-19 halt your love story.
While this situation has definitely shaken the wedding industry and changed so many plans for brides across the world, it doesn't mean that you can't have a smaller, more intimate version of your dream wedding ceremony! Whether you're trying to figure out how to cut down your wedding party, plan your own hair and makeup or deciding who to let officiate your marriage, we're here to guide you through the ins and outs of throwing a wedding during COVID-19 so that you can feel confident walking down the aisle during these uncertain times. And remember - you can always have a small, virtual ceremony now and plan for the after party at a later date! If love is calling your name but the future feels uncertain, take a deep breath and check out these answers for how to throw a wedding during COVID-19:
IS IT LEGAL TO GET MARRIED RIGHT NOW?
While states are beginning to slowly re-open as we end the near of May, it's important to remember that each state differs in terms of what is and isn't allowed at a wedding during COVID-19. Before hosting your ceremony, make sure to check out your state guidelines and also consult with the county's clerk's office as cities within a state can also vary in regards to rules around throwing a wedding at the current moment. Once you've confirmed that your virtual or small wedding is legal during COVID-19, you can begin planning all of the other fun parts of your ceremony!
HOW CAN I MAKE SURE THAT EVERYONE WHO WANTS TO SEE ME GET MARRIED, DOES?
Even if you're throwing a smaller, in-person ceremony, you're probably going to have a view guests opt into the wedding through a video call. Lucky for you, there are plenty of platforms that will make sure that everyone who wants to see you say "I do" to the one you love, can. While Zoom is the obvious answer for most because you can specifically invite each person that you want to view your wedding, there are other options such as Google Meet or even FaceTime that will allow everyone to tune in. You can even make it more public by streaming your wedding on your Instagram or Facebook Live feed if you want your event to be watched at a greater scale.
WHAT ARE THE ALTERNATIVES TO MY WEDDING VENUE?
There's a great chance that if you're planning on having your wedding ceremony during COVID-19, your original wedding venue has either cancelled or postponed your original date. But there's no need to worry - you can still have that romantic ceremony you've always fantasized about but just at a smaller, more homey scale! Reach out to friends or family that will already be attending your low-key wedding to see if they can host you tying the knot (especially if they have a gorgeous backyard!). If that's not an option, reach out to your wedding planner or florist to see if they have any tips for turning your home into the venue of your dreams since they're already familiar with your vision. They'll be able to help you organize the day so that you aren't overwhelmed by the ceremony with less help around.
HOW DO I DECIDE WHO CAN AND CANNOT COME TO MY WEDDING?
We know that cutting down on your guest list isn't easy, but remember, they can always watch you tie the knot over Zoom! If your state is beginning to allow small gatherings, maybe only invite the parents of the bride and groom to attend and one or two other close friends or family members. Your guests will understand that you're trying to keep the safety of everyone in mind, so don't stress too much about limiting the attendees of your event. Blast out that e-vite to everyone you love with the link to your wedding and get your ceremony rolling!
HOW DO I MAKE MY INTIMATE CEREMONY FEEL SPECIAL?
As we mentioned above, if you're able to, consult with your wedding planner and florist to see if they have any tips for you replicating your dream ceremony at home. Set up some flowers, string some lights in the backyard or living room and make a playlist that represents your relationship. If you want to include your guests a little more, ask the best man and maid of honor to give a speech on the call with all of your guests. Little additions like these go a long way to make your at-home nuptials feel a little more personal and memorable.
HOW CAN I CAPTURE MY LOVE STORY DURING COVID-19?
Now for the fun part - photographing your special day! If your state allows, ask your photographer if they'd feel comfortable capturing your ceremony at a distance. If this isn't an option for you, buy a simple tripod and set your phone on a self-timer in an area with lots of light - a simple but beautiful solution to when a professional isn't available. You can even do a COVID-19-themed photo shoot like the Enchanting by Mon Cheri real bride did above to show that your love is strong enough to last through these hard times!
To our real brides - keep your chin up! People will be grateful to have something to celebrate during these times, so there's no need to let the current circumstances crash your love story.