How To Have A Socially Distanced Wedding
Weddings and social distancing… a year ago, did you think we’d be covering this topic? Or better yet, in March, did you think we’d still be talking about this in August?
While some states are nearly in the post-pandemic phase of reopening, others are revamping their restrictions in response to rising Coronavirus cases. For many, this adds a layer of uncomfortableness to gathering in groups and asking your most cherished friends and family to do the same.
So, we’re here to say: it’s okay to have a socially distanced wedding, it’s not weird, everyone’s doing it, and your family isn’t going to think you’re being dramatic by asking everyone to practice a little safety.
With that, let’s look at some opportunities for a socially distanced wedding during COVID.
The Ceremony
Consider having assigned seating at the ceremony. Place chairs into chunks so that each guest group that isn’t coming from the same household is at least six feet apart from each other. You may not have that perfectly straight aisle you always dreamed of, but it can help keep everyone a little safer.
Another thought is to forego the “aisle” entirely. Instead, have your guests go straight to their assigned tables in the reception area. Once everyone is seated safely, meander through the tables, giving everyone a great view of your gorgeous ensemble! Your guests will thank you when there’s less mingling after the ceremony and more time to eat and drink!
The Reception
Speaking of eating and drinking, nixing the self-serve buffet is probably one of the better ways to prevent the spread of germs. Opt for a served buffet or plated dinner instead. If servers are out of your budget, ask your buffet catering team if they can prepare pre-portioned meals in to-go boxes. Then, have your coordinator dismiss one table at a time to grab a box and return to their seats.
The Numbers
Consider downsizing your guest list in order to create more space between guests. Micro-weddings are a great alternative to an elopement that still allows the most important people to be there on the big day. Anyone who can’t be there in person can still celebrate with you via a virtual wedding!
The Dancing
Unless you and your boo have been quarantining with your parents, be wary of a first dance with your mom or dad. While dancing with a parent on your wedding day is incredibly special, it’s also impossible to do while social distancing unless you’re doing a funny no-contact dance-off from either end of the dance floor. Hey, that might actually be a great idea.
Along those lines, it might be best to cut out dancing altogether. Dancing often involves crowding into a small area and expelling air as you realize just how much energy it takes to do the Cupid Shuffle.
Instead of dancing, consider having lawn games like cornhole, horseshoes, and croquet available for guests to play while your favorite songs bop in the background. You could even provide Clorox wipes to wipe down the accessories between players.
The Bar
If your wedding venue allows it, have a BYOB wedding! That way, you save money, your guests get to enjoy their drinks of choice, and no one is waiting around a small bar at last call.
However you choose to have your wedding – with masks, social distancing, or with a smaller crowd – just remember to stay safe, have fun, and enjoy this new adventure with those you love most in-person or virtually!
photo credit: Alisha Rudd Photography