Have a plan
what should i do about my wedding?
step 1: evaluate risks 30-45 days out
before doing anything communicate with your vendors
step 2: know the risks and MAKE a plan
step 3: the plan on before the day
step 4: the day of your wedding
step 5: make your decision and let go
Evaluate the risks and know them by your local area and county of where the wedding is to be taking place. Evaluate local and state government guidelines about the likelihood of a shut down or travel restrictions if you are traveling to your wedding venue. If rescheduling is to occur I would do this 30 days out and not 6 months out since release phases and cases have changed week by week. It's hard to predict what will occur 3-6 months before your wedding and your vendors have been able to do this on a pro level by now.
It sounds simple but I cannot stress how necessary this is, before making a decision you NEED to communicate with your vendors. Everyone is different and requirements are different from a venue to catering to a photographer. Also remember that rescheduling should be a last resort after reviewing all of your options. We are told that this pandemic may last anywhere from a few months to even potentially a year, if not longer. With numerous couples rescheduling and new couples booking you will likely not have the date you originally wanted and may further extend you and your fiancé from being married. Have an open mind to new dates.
Know your vendor's rescheduling polices and remember that every vendor requirement is different, because each business financial need is different so it is best to double check and to never assume. Rescheduling fees may apply for certain vendors in order to reschedule your date.
Also your vendors are in the trenches with you, weddings are our livelihood. We are still continuing to serve our clients during this time, so ask us what we have seen done at weddings to reduce risks, ask if there are suggestions to minimize contact with vendors, etc. You'd be surprised how dedicated and creative they have been to ensure weddings are happening for their couples and keeping others safe.
Follow guidelines for your wedding to take place. (I.E. In July there was a restriction on gatherings of 100 guests for events. This is not the same restriction of 10 guests for a house party.) Know the guest number then further assess things that need to be in place.
Ask yourself, do you want to have ___ guests or less. Either way, make a decision and inform guests that are coming and those won't be able to and offer them the option to "live stream" your ceremony. Allow those that aren't comfortable to attend to not attend.
Communicate to your vendors about safety practices and precautions they are taking. (Wearing masks, if are ill, etc.) Ask if the venue will provide hand sanitizer stations, etc.
Have signs for your guests about sanitation. Also have disposable masks available and/or colored wristbands that allow others to know their comfort zone with touching so you're not asking continuously, "Can I hug you?"
Have chairs and tables for dining spaced, and options for guests to meander outdoors.
Have a clear mind and heart. As I would say, let go and let God. Be still in your decision and focus on the happy. Girl, you're going to be MARRIED! You should be excited! Let your heart be full of joy and don't stress. Be present. And delegate tasks out before the wedding. Have a planner to take care of all the odds and ends, or have a dedicated family member team do this. Soak in this time and be present. If folks do not come, know it's not to be taken personally. Focus on the bright side.
When speaking with brides for 2020, most are scared of someone catching or spreading covid at the wedding. Know, this that there is fear in anything known. The best thing to do is evaluate what we do know. Communicate with your vendors about what preventative measures will be in place on your day, if you feel more are needed talk and communicate with your vendors. These guys have been servicing weddings and likely have measures in place for things you may not have even thought of. But, the best advise? Sit with your fiancé go over your options, pray over it, and be at peace with your decision. Do not allow yourselves to get lost in, "What ifs?" do what you can and have a plan. The pandemic isn't in our control, but we can control our actions and help reduce the spread while having fun .
