Planning A Wedding Reception: Navigating Covid-19 Challenges

Planning a wedding reception during the COVID-19 pandemic can be challenging, but it is not impossible. With careful consideration and attention to detail, you can plan a memorable and safe event that adheres to COVID-19 guidelines. This may involve hosting a virtual wedding or reception via video conferencing services such as Zoom or Skype, or taking extra precautions for an in-person event, such as spacing out tables and reducing the number of guests.

How to plan a wedding reception during Covid-19: virtual or in-person?

Planning a wedding reception during the Covid-19 pandemic can be challenging, but it doesn't have to be impossible. Here are some tips to help you plan a safe and memorable event, whether you choose to have a virtual or in-person celebration:

Virtual Wedding Reception

If you're uncomfortable with the idea of an in-person wedding reception, consider hosting a virtual event instead. A virtual wedding is legal as long as the couple and the officiant are physically present. You can use video conferencing platforms such as Zoom or Skype to share your ceremony and reception with your loved ones. To make it more personal, you can design a unique Zoom background and send it to your guests beforehand. This can also be a fun way to introduce a virtual photo booth and encourage mingling among your guests. Additionally, you can create a small recipe book with easy-to-make dishes and cocktails that your guests can prepare at home, allowing them to enjoy the same meals and drinks as you during the reception.

In-Person Wedding Reception

If you decide to have an in-person wedding reception, there are several measures you can take to ensure the safety of your guests. Firstly, consider the venue and whether it allows for outdoor gatherings. If not, spread out the reception tables at least 6 feet apart and limit the number of guests per table. Ask your venue about any restrictions and whether they can accommodate a plated dinner instead of a buffet-style meal to reduce the spread of germs. Encourage guests from areas of high Covid-19 transmission to attend virtually and limit the number of guests from these areas. You can also consider requiring proof of vaccination for in-person attendees to ensure the safety of your guests.

Other Considerations

It is important to keep your guests informed about the details of the wedding reception. Let them know ahead of time if the event will be indoors or outdoors and if there are any specific requirements, such as vaccination status. This will help them prepare and feel more comfortable attending your reception. Additionally, consider hiring a wedding planner to take some of the stress off your shoulders and help you navigate the planning process during this challenging time.

How to plan a wedding reception during Covid-19: what to ask the venue

Planning a wedding reception during the Covid-19 pandemic can be challenging, but it doesn't have to be impossible. Here are some things to consider when planning your wedding reception and what to ask the venue to ensure a safe and enjoyable event.

First, ask the venue about any changes or restrictions they have in place due to Covid-19. This includes understanding their policies on guest capacity, social distancing, and food service. For example, if you originally planned to have a buffet-style dinner, ask the venue about switching to plated dinners to reduce the spread of germs and make your guests feel more comfortable.

Second, enquire about the layout and spacing of the reception area. If possible, choose a venue that offers outdoor space or a large indoor area to allow for proper social distancing. Ask about the possibility of spreading out reception tables at least 6 feet apart and limiting the number of guests per table.

Third, discuss the guest list and any potential travel restrictions. If your wedding is in an area with high Covid-19 risk or you expect guests from such areas, consider limiting the gathering size or having separate, smaller gatherings for guests from higher-risk areas. Encourage guests from high-transmission areas to attend virtually through video conferencing tools like Zoom or Skype.

Fourth, ask the venue about their cleaning and sanitation protocols. Understand the measures they are taking to ensure a safe environment, including frequent cleaning of high-touch surfaces and the availability of hand sanitising stations.

Finally, don't be afraid to ask for flexibility and adaptability. The pandemic has brought many uncertainties, and a good venue should be understanding and willing to work with you to address any concerns. Consider hiring a wedding planner to help navigate these conversations and take some of the stress off your shoulders.

Remember, by asking these questions and planning ahead, you can create a safe and memorable wedding reception during Covid-19.

How to plan a wedding reception during Covid-19: guest list

Planning a wedding reception during the Covid-19 pandemic can be challenging, but with careful consideration, you can still host an unforgettable event while adhering to safety guidelines. Here are some tips for planning your guest list:

Firstly, consider the size of your guest list. Due to physical distancing requirements, you may need to limit the number of guests you invite. Evaluate your venue's capacity and local guidelines to determine the maximum number of guests you can accommodate safely.

When creating your guest list, prioritise those who are closest to you and your partner. Consider immediate family, close friends, and members of your wedding party. Be mindful that some guests may have concerns about attending in-person events, especially if they are in a high-risk category or live in an area with a high Covid-19 transmission rate. Reach out to your guests to understand their comfort levels and encourage them to attend virtually if they prefer.

Communicate with your guests early and often. Let them know about any safety measures you will be implementing, such as physical distancing, mask requirements, or vaccination status expectations. This will help your guests feel informed and comfortable attending your reception.

If you are inviting guests from areas with high Covid-19 transmission rates, consider limiting the gathering size or hosting two separate events with smaller guest lists. This will help reduce the risk of exposure and ensure a safer environment for all attendees.

Finally, consider offering a virtual option for guests who are unable or uncomfortable with attending in person. You can use video conferencing platforms like Zoom or Skype to live stream your reception, allowing guests to join remotely and still be a part of your special day.

How to plan a wedding reception during Covid-19: food and drink

Planning a wedding reception during Covid-19 requires careful consideration and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you plan the food and drink for your special day while adhering to Covid-19 guidelines:

Firstly, consider the venue and whether it will be indoors or outdoors. If you opt for an indoor venue, ensure that the reception tables are spaced at least 6ft apart, and limit the number of guests per table. Ask your venue about any changes or restrictions, such as switching from a buffet-style dinner to plated meals, which can help reduce the spread of germs and make your guests feel more comfortable. If you're unsure about the details of the venue, don't hesitate to ask the bride and groom ahead of time.

If you're planning an outdoor reception, consider the weather conditions and provide shade or shelter for your guests. You can still enjoy a meal outdoors, but it's essential to plan ahead and ensure that the food is protected from the elements.

To minimise contact and reduce the risk of transmission, you may want to consider providing individually packaged meals or pre-plated meals for each guest. This way, your guests can enjoy their food without worrying about sharing serving utensils. If you're serving drinks, opt for single-serve options or provide a designated area where guests can pour their drinks to avoid crowding.

If you're concerned about the safety of a traditional reception, you could get creative and send your guests a recipe book with easy-to-make recipes for appetizers, cocktails, or other dishes you had planned for the reception. This way, your guests can cook and enjoy the same meals at home while still feeling connected to your special day. You could even suggest that they dress up and create a unique Zoom background to make it feel like a virtual reception.

How to plan a wedding reception during Covid-19: decorations and themes

Planning a wedding reception during the Covid-19 pandemic is challenging, but with careful consideration, you can plan a memorable event while adhering to Covid-19 guidelines.

If you are hosting an in-person reception, consider holding it outdoors, as this is safer than an indoor gathering. If this is not possible, spread out the tables at least 6ft apart and reduce the number of guests per table. Ask your venue about any changes or restrictions so you can plan ahead. For example, if you originally planned to have a buffet, ask about switching to plated meals to reduce the spread of germs. If you have a lower guest count, you could use the money you save on upgrading to plated meals.

If you are uncomfortable with having an in-person reception, you could host a virtual one via video conferencing services like Zoom or Skype. You could design a personal Zoom background to send to your guests beforehand, which could be a creative way to introduce a virtual photo booth. You could also provide your guests with a recipe book of the food and drinks you would have served at the reception, so they can cook the same meals at home.

If you are having an in-person reception, think about ways to involve guests who can't attend due to illness, travel restrictions or because they are vulnerable. You could ask your venue about any available options to stream the event.

It is also worth considering whether you will ask your guests to be vaccinated before the event.

Frequently asked questions