New Jersey Indoor Weddings: What's Allowed And What's Not

New Jersey has a wide range of indoor wedding venues, from banquet halls to ballrooms, hotels, and private estates. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, indoor weddings were banned in the state. In August 2020, Governor Phil Murphy increased the capacity limits for indoor gatherings for weddings, allowing up to 25% capacity or 150 individuals, whichever was lower. As of June 2024, outdoor weddings with up to 100 people were permitted, but indoor receptions were still banned.

Indoor wedding receptions were banned in New Jersey during the COVID-19 pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic wreaked havoc on the wedding industry, with many couples forced to postpone their weddings as indoor wedding receptions were banned in New Jersey. This was a devastating blow to those who had planned and looked forward to their dream weddings.

In the early days of the outbreak, large gatherings were all but banned in New Jersey, and police reported breaking up several celebrations as infection rates climbed. The situation was fraught with emotional stories of loved ones passing away, and family members unable to gather and mourn their loss.

Over time, as the state's infection rate dropped, restrictions were slowly eased, and religious gatherings were eventually allowed again. However, weddings continued to carry a health threat, even as infection rates decreased. An indoor wedding reception in Maine, for example, led to more than 100 new cases of COVID-19, including an outbreak at a nursing home over 200 miles away.

Recognizing the impact of these restrictions on couples planning their weddings, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy announced steps to increase the capacity limits for indoor gatherings for weddings, among other events, in August 2020. These would be capped at 25% capacity or 150 individuals, up from the previous limit of 25% capacity with a 100-person cap. This change meant that catering facilities and banquet halls could once again host wedding receptions, albeit with groups seated together limited to eight individuals, excluding immediate families.

To ensure the safety of guests and staff, strict protocols were put in place, including mandatory mask-wearing for all staff and guests when not seated, and a minimum distance of six feet between groups. While these measures allowed for some expansion of guest lists, couples planning their weddings still needed to temper their expectations and adapt to the new normal of cautious celebration.

Indoor weddings in New Jersey are capped at 25% capacity or 150 people, whichever is lower

Indoor weddings in New Jersey are currently capped at 25% capacity or 150 people, whichever is lower. This limit was increased from a previous cap of 25% capacity or 100 people by Governor Phil Murphy in September 2020. The increase was part of a series of steps to open up indoor dining and movie theatres, as well as religious services and celebrations, during the coronavirus pandemic.

The state of New Jersey has slowly eased restrictions on gatherings as its infection rate has dropped, allowing for a lifting of the ban on religious gatherings and weddings. However, weddings still carry a health threat, even as infection rates drop. For example, an indoor wedding party of 65 people in Maine led to more than 100 new cases of coronavirus.

In addition to the capacity limits, there are other protocols in place for indoor weddings in New Jersey. Groups seated together will be capped at eight individuals, with the exception of immediate families. All groups of guests must be kept a minimum of six feet apart, and all staff and guests will be required to wear masks at all times, except when guests are seated.

Outdoor weddings in New Jersey are allowed for up to 100 people

While indoor receptions are still not permitted, there are plenty of amazing outdoor wedding venues to choose from in New Jersey. From rustic barns and picturesque gardens to elegant estates and waterfront locations, the state has something to offer for every taste and style.

For those who are looking for a small and intimate wedding, New Jersey has a variety of venues that can accommodate a guest list of 20 to 50 people. These venues provide a cozy and romantic setting for couples to exchange their vows, surrounded by their closest family and friends.

For larger weddings, some outdoor venues in New Jersey can accommodate up to 300 or even 600 guests. These venues often include spacious ballrooms or outdoor areas that can comfortably host a bigger crowd.

When planning a wedding in New Jersey, it is important to keep in mind that the state has specific requirements for obtaining a marriage license. Couples will need to provide proof of identity, residency, and their social security number, along with a witness and an application fee.

In addition, New Jersey wedding venues typically charge a 7% sales tax and a 20% service fee on top of the quoted price. So, it is essential to consider these additional costs when creating a wedding budget.

Guests at indoor weddings in New Jersey must wear masks when they are not seated

As per the guidelines issued by the Governor of New Jersey, Phil Murphy, guests at indoor weddings must wear masks when they are not seated. This mandate was announced in conjunction with the reopening of catering halls and banquet halls for indoor dining, albeit with limited capacity.

The mandate for mask-wearing at indoor weddings is part of a broader set of guidelines for indoor gatherings in New Jersey. For instance, the same guidelines apply to religious services and celebrations, funerals, memorial services, and political activities. The capacity limits for these indoor gatherings are capped at the lesser of either 25% or 150 individuals.

It is important to note that these guidelines were announced in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and may be subject to change as the situation evolves. Therefore, it is always a good idea to refer to the latest official guidelines and stay informed about any updates or changes to the protocols.

In addition to the mask mandate for guests, other safety protocols are in place for staff working at indoor wedding venues. According to the guidelines, all staff members are required to wear masks at all times. This measure ensures that both guests and staff members are protected during these gatherings.

Tables at indoor weddings in New Jersey are limited to eight people, excluding immediate family

Indoor weddings in New Jersey are allowed, but there are certain restrictions in place. The maximum capacity for indoor weddings is limited to the lesser of either 25% of the total capacity of the venue or 150 individuals. This is an increase from the previous limit of 25% capacity with a cap of 100 attendees.

In addition to the overall capacity limit, individual tables at indoor weddings in New Jersey are restricted to eight people, excluding members of the immediate family. This restriction is in place to maintain proper social distancing and reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. All guests are required to wear masks at all times when they are away from their tables.

These guidelines were announced by Governor Phil Murphy as part of the state's efforts to balance public health and safety with the resumption of social and economic activities. While indoor dining and movie theatres have been allowed to operate with restrictions, the state continues to assess the situation and make adjustments as necessary.

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