Make Your Quarantine Wedding Memorable And Unique

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many couples to postpone or cancel their wedding plans. While it can be disappointing to have to change your original vision, there are still plenty of ways to make your quarantine wedding day special. From creating a vow ceremony and taking a photo walk down memory lane to virtual wine tasting and recreating your first dance, there's much you can do to celebrate your love while abiding by health and safety guidelines.

Create a vow ceremony

If you're struggling to write your vows, try the following:

• Begin by jotting down all of the thoughts that come to mind about your partner and relationship.
• Highlight your favourite items and use them in the final copy.
• Write no more than three drafts, taking a few days – even a week – in between edits.
• Include only the most important details, such as the first time you met or when you said "I love you".
• Avoid using absolute words like "always" and "never".
• Embrace sentimentality – if the words are heartfelt, they're not cheesy.
• Seek inspiration from pop culture, such as quoting a passage from your favourite book or a line from your favourite film.

Once you've written your vows, go ahead and read them out loud many times. This will help you to gauge whether your promises are clear and complete, and to focus on your speed and tone.

DIY decorations

Vintage Suitcase Guest Book Table Display

This travel-inspired DIY decoration involves designing postcards of all the places the couple has visited together and asking guests to write notes on the back. To complete the look, include vintage suitcases and a globe, creating a perfect touch for travel enthusiasts.

Cozy Blankets for an Outdoor Wedding

Provide blankets for your guests, along with a cute hand-painted sign that says, "To have and to hold, in case you get cold." This idea not only adds a comfy and intimate vibe to your outdoor wedding but also serves as a reusable favor for your guests to appreciate.

Rustic Wood Heart Guest Book

Create a unique and inexpensive decoration by getting a wooden box and hearts from a craft store. Add writing utensils, and you have a simple yet meaningful DIY decoration that will last a lifetime.

Driftwood Wedding Arch

If you're having an oceanfront ceremony, a charming ceremony arch made of driftwood adorned with seashells and copper foil garlands is a perfect choice. You can also use driftwood for centerpieces, creating a one-of-a-kind display for each table.

Hanging Flower Arrangements for Ceremony Chairs

Add a bohemian and rustic touch to your wedding by hanging flower arrangements, waterproof fairy lights, or monogrammed mason jars from the ceremony chairs. Fresh flowers will bring life and color to your special day.

Paper Flower Napkin Rings

Laser-cut paper rings with butterflies or dragonflies add a whimsical touch to your tablescape. These paper napkin rings are not only tough but also create a significant visual impact when multiplied across each table setting.

String Light Canopy

Design and assemble your own tent made of string lights to create a romantic and intimate atmosphere for your reception. This DIY decoration acts as a light source and a beautiful focal point for your guests to admire.

Memory Wall Made of Wood

Build a memory wall full of family photos and heirlooms to show your appreciation for your loved ones. This simple DIY project adds nostalgia and sentimentality to your wedding, making it a meaningful detail for you and your family.

Painted Mason Jar Vase

Mason jars are a budget-friendly and versatile option for DIY decorations. You can fill them with flowers and greenery or decorate them with twine or lace to match your wedding theme. They can be used during the ceremony and reception, adding an old-fashioned vibe to your special day.

Garlands of Greenery

Garlands are excellent for filling sparse areas and adding a touch of lush greenery to your wedding venue. Drape them over banquet tables, the newlyweds' chairs, a bar area, or use them to rope off reserved ceremony seating. They are versatile and can be used in various ways to enhance your décor.

Floral Photo-Booth Backdrop

While flower walls can be expensive, a garden-inspired backdrop is a more affordable DIY alternative. Decorate a wooden canvas with individual flowers or fill it with blooms and greens to create a stunning escort card display or photo booth backdrop.

These DIY decoration ideas will help you create a beautiful and personalized wedding, even during quarantine. With a bit of creativity and effort, you can make your special day memorable and unique.

Virtual games and experiences

Virtual Games

• Jackbox, Code Names, and Free Space are excellent options for a fun virtual game night with your bridal party or a large group of guests. These games are sure to keep everyone entertained and create a joyful atmosphere.
• Card games offer a wide variety of options, such as "Slapjack," "Snap," "Cheat," and "Memory." These games are simple yet engaging and can be played with your partner or a small group.
• Board games with a twist: If you're looking for something more interactive, try adding a creative twist to classic board games like Scrabble. For example, the first person to complete a word gets to ask the other player a truth or dare question. This way, you can make it more exciting and personalised.
• Console games: Dust off your PS4 or favourite gaming console and spend some quality time playing together. It's a great way to bond and create lasting memories.

Virtual Experiences

• Virtual wine tasting: Organise a wine tasting session with your partner or invite friends and family to join. You can explore different wines from the comfort of your home and make it a fun and educational experience.
• Virtual travel: Many destinations and museums now offer virtual tours. If you and your partner are travel enthusiasts, this can be a great way to explore new places and satisfy your wanderlust without leaving your couch.
• Virtual museum visits: From art galleries to roller coasters, there are numerous virtual experiences available. You can travel the world and discover new things together, creating unique memories.
• Virtual workout class: Get your heart pumping and join a virtual workout class together. It can be a fun way to stay active and release some pre-wedding jitters or post-celebration excitement.
• Virtual bachelorette/bachelor party: If you're celebrating with a bridal party, consider hosting a virtual bachelorette or bachelor party. There are many fun ideas, such as virtual cocktail-making classes, online games, and more.

Cook a meal together

Cooking a meal together can be a fun and intimate way to celebrate your wedding day in quarantine. Here are some tips to make it a special and memorable experience:

Choose a meaningful menu

Select a menu that holds a special significance for both of you. It could be a recreation of your first date meal, a dish that is native to your honeymoon destination, or a family recipe that has been passed down through generations. If you're feeling adventurous, you could even try making a custom ramen noodle bar or a sushi station!

Keep it simple

While it's tempting to go all out for your wedding meal, try to keep the menu simple and fuss-free. Opt for dishes that can be served at room temperature or prepared in advance to reduce stress on the day. This could include mezze-type dips, salads, and pizzas.

Delegate and outsource

Don't hesitate to ask for help! Reach out to your family and friends to see if they'd be willing to contribute a dish or two. It could be something they're known for making well or a dish that holds a special meaning for them. You could also consider outsourcing some of the work to local caterers or restaurants, especially if there's a particular dish you have your heart set on.

Make it interactive

Create an interactive and engaging experience by setting up food stations or allowing your guests (if you have any) to customize their own dishes. This could include a build-your-own taco bar, a dim sum sampling plate, or a do-it-yourself crostini station. Not only does it provide variety, but it also adds a fun element to the meal.

Set the mood

Create a romantic and intimate atmosphere to enjoy your meal. Dim the lights, play some soft music in the background, and light some candles. Don't forget to dress up for the occasion, too! Get dressed in your favourite fancy outfit and enjoy the feeling of being all dressed up, even if it's just for the two of you.

By following these tips, you can make cooking a meal together a fun, intimate, and unique way to celebrate your quarantine wedding. It will surely be a memorable experience that you'll cherish for years to come.

Movie night

Choose the Right Movie:

Select a movie that will appeal to everyone and is age-appropriate. If you're having trouble deciding, prepare a few options so you can switch if needed. Consider a double feature with two related movies or a fun theme.

Create a Cozy Atmosphere:

Whether you're watching indoors or in your backyard, add some cozy elements to enhance the atmosphere. This could include soft lighting, comfortable seating with blankets and pillows, and a well-maintained space. If watching outdoors, ensure your equipment is weatherproof and your screen prevents glare.

Delicious Snacks:

Prepare some tasty snacks like popcorn, candy, and healthy treats. You can even make it a potluck and ask each guest to bring their favourite movie snack. Don't forget to offer some refreshing drinks as well!

Connect with Others:

Use technology to your advantage and invite guests who can't be there in person to join virtually. Tools like Netflix Party or Teleparty allow you to watch and chat simultaneously, creating a shared experience even when apart.

Safety First:

If you are hosting guests in person, ensure you follow safety guidelines. This includes social distancing, providing hand sanitizer, and disinfecting shared surfaces. Ask guests to bring their own snacks and drinks if possible, and use disposable plates and utensils to reduce the risk of contamination.

Make it Fun:

Encourage guests to dress up as their favourite movie characters or create a fun photo booth with movie-themed props. You can even have a friendly competition for the best movie-themed costume or trivia quiz based on the chosen film.

By following these tips, your quarantine wedding movie night will be an enjoyable and memorable experience for all!

Frequently asked questions