Planning A Micro Wedding During A Pandemic: A Guide

Micro weddings are the perfect compromise between large weddings and elopements. They are short on guests but not on amenities, and can be held almost anywhere. If you're planning a micro wedding during the pandemic, the first thing you need to do is be mindful of the safety regulations your wedding would need to adhere to. This includes being aware of your county's COVID-19 status and seeing what limitations your local government has put in place regarding gatherings.

Safety regulations and COVID-19 status

When planning a micro wedding during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to be aware of the safety regulations and COVID-19 status of your county or local area. Local governments may have put in place limitations on gatherings, so it is important to check these before finalising any plans.

In 2021, many couples were opting for hybrid weddings, which combine virtual and in-person elements, while others were postponing their weddings altogether. If you are planning a micro wedding during this time, it is important to take as many precautionary measures as possible to maintain a healthy and positive environment for you and your guests. This includes following safety protocols such as social distancing and choosing a venue that allows for proper distancing between guests.

In terms of COVID-19 status, it is important to stay up to date with the latest information from your local government or health authorities. This includes being aware of any changes to restrictions or guidelines that may impact your wedding plans. For example, at the time of writing, New York wedding venues had a guest limit of 50 people.

To help with the planning process, it is a good idea to hire a wedding planner who can assist with arranging seating that is properly distanced and choosing vendors and a streaming service to livestream the ceremony for those who cannot attend in person. It is also important to consider the essentials, such as an officiant to perform the ceremony and a photographer to capture the memories.

Hybrid weddings

When planning a hybrid wedding, it's important to be mindful of safety regulations and local government guidelines regarding gatherings. You may need to limit your guest list to a certain number, such as 50 people, to comply with COVID-19 safety protocols.

To create a COVID-safe environment, consider hiring a wedding planner who can help with seating arrangements and choosing vendors. They can also assist in selecting a streaming service to livestream the ceremony for virtual guests. While a band or DJ may not be necessary for a small guest list, a quality photographer is still essential to capture your special day.

Micro weddings can be held almost anywhere, so you can save money on venue costs and decorations. However, don't skimp on the essentials, such as an officiant to perform the ceremony and a photographer to capture the memories. By prioritising COVID-safety and following local guidelines, you can have a fun, heartwarming, and low-risk micro wedding.

Choosing a venue

When it comes to choosing a venue for your micro wedding during Covid, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, micro weddings can be held almost anywhere, so you have a lot of flexibility when it comes to choosing a location. You might want to consider a venue that is special to you and your partner, or simply one that is convenient and easy to access for your guests.

Another thing to keep in mind is the size of your guest list. While micro weddings typically have 50 guests or less, you'll still need to ensure that your venue can comfortably accommodate that number. It's also important to be mindful of any local safety regulations and restrictions that may be in place due to the pandemic. For example, wedding venues in New York currently have a guest limit of 50 people.

When choosing a venue, it's also a good idea to think about the amenities and services you'll need. Most micro weddings feature the same vendors as larger weddings, just on a smaller scale. You'll still need an officiant to perform the ceremony, and a photographer to capture the special moments. You may also want to consider a wedding planner, who can help with things like seating arrangements and choosing vendors.

Finally, don't forget to consider the overall atmosphere and aesthetic of your venue. Micro weddings are often more intimate and low-key than traditional weddings, so you might want to choose a venue that reflects that. Whether it's a cosy restaurant, a beautiful garden, or a unique outdoor space, the possibilities are endless. With a micro wedding, you have the freedom to create a unique and personalised celebration that reflects your style and personality.

Vendors

When it comes to vendors, micro weddings are short on guests, but not on amenities. Most feature the same vendors you see at larger weddings, just on a smaller scale. You'll still need the essentials: an officiant to perform the ceremony, whether that's a religious figure or a friend who is ordained to officiate at weddings; a photographer, where quality should reign over cost; and a wedding planner, who can help arrange seating that's properly distanced while still being ideal for photographs, as well as helping you choose vendors and a streaming service to livestream the ceremony for those who can't be there.

Micro weddings can be held almost anywhere, so you won't need as many flowers as you would in a large church or wedding hall. You may not need a band or DJ with only 20 guests if you feel they aren't interested in dancing.

The first step to planning a micro wedding during COVID is for couples to be aware of their county's COVID-19 status, and see what limitations their local government has put in place regarding gatherings, big or small. For example, New York wedding venues have a guest limit of 50 people.

Seating arrangements

One way to ensure social distancing is to opt for a larger venue that allows for adequate spacing between guests. Micro weddings can be held almost anywhere, so consider unique locations that offer ample space, such as outdoor venues or spacious indoor areas. This will make it easier to arrange seating that is properly distanced while still creating a warm and intimate atmosphere.

When planning the seating arrangements, aim for smaller tables that accommodate fewer guests. This will help maintain a sense of closeness while also reducing the risk of virus transmission. Consider assigning seats to ensure that guests from the same household or social bubble are seated together, promoting a comfortable and safe environment.

If you have guests who are unable to attend in person due to travel restrictions or health concerns, consider incorporating a livestream element. By setting up a livestream service, you can include virtual guests in the celebration and ensure that no one misses out on the special day. This hybrid approach allows for a more inclusive experience, bringing together both in-person and remote attendees.

Finally, don't forget to consult with your wedding planner or venue coordinator. They can provide valuable guidance on creating a seating arrangement that adheres to safety protocols while still achieving the aesthetic you desire for your micro wedding. With their expertise, you can navigate the challenges of planning a wedding during COVID-19 and create a memorable and safe celebration.

Frequently asked questions