How to Talk to Wedding Guests about Vaccinations
Not sure how to talk to your guests about all that surrounds COVID-19? Well, most people are in the same boat as you. It can feel like an awkward conversation that you just want to end. The topic of vaccines before COVID was already polarizing, but COVID has only made things more difficult. With that in mind, we’ve compiled our best tips for talking to your wedding guests about vaccinations - whether you are requiring vaccines for your wedding or not.
With COVID-19 on the rise again due to the Delta variant, people have been more willing to snag the shot. Some people got theirs when it first became available, others are still hesitant. How you talk to your guests about vaccines matters, because it sets the tone for your wedding. We recommend:
1. Being clear and direct.
First, be clear. It’s important to be clear and direct with your guests about what you want. We’ve seen people communicate their decisions in various ways, some creating an invitation insert to let people know of their desires moving forward. For instance, let’s say you’re asking everyone to be vaccinated, and if they aren’t, for them to please join your wedding virtually. Here is how you can be clear and direct when making that request:
With the desire for safety at the forefront of our minds, we are kindly requesting that only those who have received both shots of the vaccine before our wedding date join us in person. If you have not, we ask that you join us virtually via LoveStream.
2. Setting the focus on you and your future spouse.
The second most important part of your COVID wedding message to guests is setting the focus on you and your spouse. Reminding people that this is your day, and what you want from it is ultimately the most important part. No, that’s not selfish, it’s realistic and fair. Your wedding day should reflect you, your desires and your values. Here’s a great way to word that:
As a couple, we have decided that we feel most comfortable if everyone is vaccinated at our wedding. We feel this decision will allow us to enjoy our wedding to the fullest. We hope you understand. If you have not received the vaccine, we ask that you join us virtually.
3. Communicating that you respect all decisions.
The last part that is critical of your COVID wedding message is to communicate your respect of people’s decisions. Maybe they don’t feel comfortable with getting the vaccine in that short of time, or for various health reasons are unable to. Respecting their decision is key to communication that leaves the door open. Here’s an example:
While we are simply doing what we feel most comfortable with, we understand that some of you might not be comfortable with getting vaccinated, and we respect that! We are celebrating virtually and would still love you to join the party online!
Being clear, reminding guests of your intent, and showing respect to their choices are three great ways to communicate your COVID wedding policies to them. No one is perfect, and your message doesn’t have to be, but these tips and examples are a great way to make sure guests understand what is expected of them and feel respected in the process!
Photo Credit: Wiley Putnam