The Corona Virus is throwing the world for a loop, here is what you need to know to adjust your wedding and still make it a memorable day
The 411 on the Corona Virus
There are one million confirmed cases worldwide as of April 2nd. The US passed China in confirmed cases, and there are at least 245,601 across the United States. Most states have issued stay-at-home orders or shelter-in-place recommendations unless for emergency activities like grocery store visits or doctors appointments.
Governor Herbert has asked that if there has to be group gatherings it be under ten people, and people are at least six feet away. He has urged staying at home and practicing good hygiene.
What does this mean for your wedding?
COVID-19 has thrown everyone for a loop, and sadly that doesn't exclude brides or engaged couples. Some couples are deciding to postpone ceremonies or receptions. Some couples are eloping so they can start their lives together and only pushing back the large group gatherings.
Going forward in what choices to make might seem tough because all of the plans you thought were making your day special may have just changed. As a bride myself, I understand and I feel for you. The best advice I have gotten so far came from someone I loved dearly. They told me that really the best part of marriage isn't the one day you put on a white dress, its about building a life together through the good and the bad. This is something I have had to remind myself each time we have gotten a new piece of bad news.
Its not about the wedding day, its about the person you get for the rest of your days.
Some New Ideas and Takes on your Wedding Plans to help Fight the COVID Craziness
Despite all of the craziness and worry, I am quickly finding out myself that things will all work out and there are things that you can do to still make this your own unique and special time. Here are some ideas to help:
1: Elopements
Sometimes elopements get a bad wrap. If you are feeling like your wedding day may never come around this may be something to think about. Moving up the day and having a small
ceremony that only includes your family, the officiator, and your love may not be a bad idea. It is becoming very common and very acceptable during this unprecedented time to move up your wedding date and get your life started with your honey. If you do decide to do this, maybe do it somewhere outside. Most things inside are closed, and being in the open air usually allows for more separation between guests so you can keep the 6-foot rule. It may also be a good idea to live stream or film the ceremony so any family that can't come, they still have a way to participate in your special day
2: Drive-By Bridal Showers and Bachelorette Parties
With usual weddings during a time without a worldwide pandemic, these gatherings are normal and very useful. They are a time to get congratulations and gift off your registry that help get the couple ready to start their own home. With the recommendations to stay home and social distance, drive-by parties are a good way to still be able to get the basic gifts you need to help build your home and stay withing the recommended guidelines for social distancing. You can provide party favors and have a spot for gift drop off, but otherwise communication can be within the 6-foot rule.
3: Adapted Invites/Evites
If you aren't sure when your date is going to be or if you are getting married but not able to have a reception, maybe consider a newer or different idea.
a: We Tied The Knot cards -- You can work with your invitation printing company on design, but you could make little cards to send right after you get married that basically say you are sorry you couldn't celebrate with everyone, but if they want to send their love they can visit your registry or send money via Venmo or other means.
b: Invitations with a Change Up -- You can send invitations like normal but maybe include a snip it about how the dates are flexible. If you decide to do invitations you could actually leave off a date and supply social media handles or the link for your wedding website to give more announcements about dates as things with COVID-19 change and get better.
c: E-vites -- With everything going on, so much of life has moved online. Invitations are such an easy thing to move online so there is no contact with anyone and no need worrying about delayed delivery. They also would be really easy to link your wedding website or registry
Here are some other random tips for other wedding planning odds and ends:
-- Shop online! So much is on sale right now thanks to the virus. Watch for deals on bridesmaids dresses, home furniture, and anything else you need to plan the wedding and life afterwards.
-- If you do decide to elope or have a last minute ceremony, you can find the basic flowers in basic colors at grocery stores like Trader Joe's, Sam's Club, or Costco. There are YouTube videos for everything, including how to be your own DIY florist. Its cost effective and good if you're in a pinch.
-- Most vendors are doing everything they can to work with clients so don't be afraid to reach out and communicate early about anything that is making you nervous or any changes you are planning on making.
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