As the pandemic continues to spread the world and social distancing measures are more crucial than ever, many couples have been forced to postpone or cancel their wedding day. After many months in lockdown and these challenging times, there is nothing more uplifting than a wedding celebration.

While some things really can’t wait, it is essential to create a safe and comfortable environment for all guests, friends and family members. Celebrating your wedding in style is possible, but you might need to downsize your party – without missing out on what is essential!

Location, Location, Location!

The location of your wedding is essential. Since you won’t be able to celebrate with your friends and family members, you can now pick a more intimate yet more luxurious location. 

As many of the activities you had planned might not be possible this year, at least you can impress your wedding guests by inviting them to a more intimate venue than what you would have normally chosen such as rooftop of The Brass on Baltimore or Loose Park Rose Garden. Or, perhaps, select a wedding venue with a higher capacity, allowing for increased guest tables and better social distances.  No matter, you will have the fortune of getting married in lovely surroundings. 

The Secret Is in the Details

In my opinion, the little details can play a large part no matter the size of the wedding.  In a smaller, more intimate and safety-conscious occasion the littlest of details can make the biggest impact. One important aspect to consider is social distant guest seating and seating guests with their “circles.”  Creative seating charts or escort card displays can serve a dual purpose by adding a decor element and functionality to your guest experience.  If this was something to focus on before the pandemic, now it is essential. 

Consider seating fewer guests at tables or opting for an alternative seating system, you can create a significantly safer environment. Wedding planners can be of great help when tackling this task.  My friend Rhiannon Bosse recently planned a wedding celebration where guests sat at serpentine tables.  This allowed for more distance between guests and was a lovely way for an intimate gathering of people to socialize.  

Take All the Safety Measures Needed – But in Style

Just like many other aspects of our lives, weddings, receptions, parties and gatherings have significantly changed over the past months. During your wedding reception, it is important that your guests and vendors safety is a priority. Supply face masks to guests, hand sanitizer favors and wipes can be an essential precaution. Invest in the services of catering companies that follow proper protocol and consider upgrading to a plated dinner service.  If you hired a live band, consider making the event more of an intimate concert for your closest family and friends. 

Think About an Outdoor Wedding

As we have begun to see, the pandemic may reduce the size of weddings and parties for many years to come. Just like many other aspects of this pandemic, much of the future is unknown.

Should you choose to move forward with your nuptials, considering hosting your celebration outdoors.  Perhaps with a smaller guest list with attention to the smallest of details to ensure the health and safety for all those involved.  Or, consider eloping to the mountains of Colorado, the beaches of California or the forests of the Smokey Mountains.