Lyla Dejesus
New Jersey has allowed weddings since 2020, albeit with restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In May 2020, Governor Phil Murphy allowed virtual weddings to take place using video conferencing technology, while municipalities could still permit in-person ceremonies subject to social distancing. By March 2021, the state loosened gathering restrictions for weddings, allowing indoor wedding receptions to proceed at 35% of a venue's capacity or up to 150 people, whichever was less. Outdoor weddings could also be held with up to 150 people.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Virtual weddings allowed | Yes |
| In-person weddings allowed | Yes |
| Indoor capacity | 35% of venue capacity or up to 150 people, whichever is less |
| Outdoor capacity | Up to 150 people |
| Date of announcement | 3rd March 2021 |
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What You'll Learn
Virtual weddings allowed
Virtual weddings have been allowed in New Jersey since May 2020, when Governor Phil Murphy signed an executive order relaxing in-person requirements to obtain marriage licenses. The order also allowed weddings to be conducted via video conferencing within the state, with certain safeguards in place. This was in response to the wedding industry being impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced many couples to put their weddings on hold.
One company that launched a virtual wedding package was Jersey City-based sustainable event-planning company, Greater Good Events. The company helped a couple from Brooklyn get married in their apartment, with the event televised on Spectrum News (NY1) and viewed by their family and friends.
The legislation allowing virtual weddings was only temporary, however, and ended in the spring of 2021. Since then, lawmakers in New Jersey have been discussing the possibility of reintroducing virtual weddings as a long-term option. In January 2024, it was reported that legislation was being considered that would allow remote marriage services and ceremonies to take place via video conferencing platforms such as Zoom, Skype, and Google Meet.
Virtual weddings offer several benefits, including helping to counteract disruptions caused by COVID-19, the flu, and other illnesses. They also provide a safer option for vulnerable family members and eliminate high travel costs for out-of-town guests.
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In-person ceremonies allowed
In-person wedding ceremonies have been allowed in New Jersey since May 2020, when Gov. Phil Murphy allowed virtual weddings in the state. Municipalities could still permit in-person ceremonies, subject to social distancing, but they were not required to do so.
In March 2021, Gov. Murphy announced that New Jersey would be loosening gathering restrictions for wedding receptions. Wedding venues could operate at 35% of indoor capacity or up to 150 people for receptions, whichever was lower. Outdoor weddings could also be held with up to 150 people. This change was due to the state's COVID-19 numbers decreasing significantly, and the new guidance was intended to give people time to plan ahead for events.
Indoor receptions had to follow indoor dining guidance, which required that people only eat and drink while seated and wear face coverings at all other times.
This change in guidance was welcomed as weddings and summer camps had one thing in common: they took months to plan.
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Indoor capacity restrictions
In March 2021, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy announced that the state would be loosening gathering restrictions for wedding receptions. The new guidance allowed wedding venues to operate at 35% of their indoor capacity or up to 150 people for receptions, whichever was lower. This meant that indoor wedding receptions could take place with the same capacity limits as wedding ceremonies, which were already operating under these restrictions. The order came into effect on a Friday in March 2021 at 6:00 a.m.
Prior to this announcement, New Jersey had already allowed virtual weddings. In May 2020, Governor Murphy issued an order permitting wedding ceremonies to be held using video conferencing technology, with certain safeguards in place for couples seeking a marriage license. Municipalities could still allow in-person ceremonies, but they were not required to do so. This order was put in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the state's efforts to curb the spread of the virus.
The loosening of restrictions on indoor wedding receptions in March 2021 was also a result of improving COVID-19 numbers in the state. Governor Murphy noted that the state's case numbers had decreased significantly, allowing for the reopening process to begin. However, he emphasized that they were not declaring victory over the coronavirus, and that the reopening of wedding receptions and other gatherings would need to be approached cautiously.
As part of the guidance for indoor wedding receptions, Governor Murphy outlined specific regulations that venues and guests must follow. These included requirements for indoor dining, such as mandating that people only eat and drink while seated and wearing face coverings at all other times. These measures were implemented to reduce the risk of virus transmission and ensure the safety of those attending wedding receptions indoors.
It is important to note that the information provided reflects the restrictions and guidelines in place as of March 2021. The regulations regarding indoor capacity restrictions for weddings in New Jersey may have been updated or changed since then, so it is advisable to refer to the latest official sources for the most current information.
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Outdoor capacity limits
On March 3, 2021, Governor Phil Murphy signed an executive order that loosened restrictions on gatherings for wedding receptions in New Jersey. The order allowed outdoor weddings to operate with up to 150 people, with wedding ceremonies already operating under the same capacity limits. This change was implemented due to a significant decrease in the state's COVID-19 numbers.
The executive order took effect on Friday, March 5, 2021, at 6:00 a.m., providing couples and wedding planners with time to adjust their arrangements. This change was also intended to offer a longer planning period for events.
Governor Murphy emphasized the need for a long runway for events like wedding receptions, acknowledging that they require months of preparation. He also clarified that this relaxation of restrictions did not signify a victory over the coronavirus but rather a cautious step forward in the reopening process.
It is worth noting that, prior to this announcement, municipalities in New Jersey had the discretion to permit in-person wedding ceremonies, provided they adhered to social distancing guidelines. However, they were not mandated to do so. This flexibility allowed couples to choose whether to proceed with in-person or virtual wedding ceremonies during the pandemic.
In conclusion, the state of New Jersey gradually eased capacity limits for outdoor weddings, reaching a maximum of 150 attendees in March 2021. This change provided couples with more options for celebrating their special day while still navigating the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Face coverings required
In 2020, New Jersey allowed virtual weddings due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In-person ceremonies were subject to social distancing but were not required. By 2021, New Jersey loosened gathering restrictions for wedding receptions, allowing indoor venues to operate at 35% capacity or up to 150 people, whichever was less. Outdoor weddings could also operate with up to 150 people.
To ensure the safety of all attendees and staff, face coverings must be worn at indoor wedding receptions in New Jersey. This mandate is part of the state's indoor dining guidance, which requires individuals to wear masks at all times except when eating or drinking. By adhering to this protocol, guests can confidently celebrate and create unforgettable memories while also prioritizing the well-being of everyone involved. It is important to note that these guidelines may evolve as local and state health authorities continuously monitor the situation and provide updates accordingly.
The state's guidelines for face coverings at weddings are designed to protect individuals and communities from the spread of COVID-19. Face coverings act as a barrier that helps prevent respiratory droplets from traveling into the air and onto others. By wearing masks, individuals can lower the risk of transmitting the virus, especially in indoor settings where social distancing may be challenging. This protective measure is crucial in mitigating the virus's transmission and ensuring a safe environment for all attendees and staff during wedding celebrations.
It is recommended to follow the latest guidelines provided by the state of New Jersey regarding face coverings. These guidelines are subject to change based on the evolving nature of the pandemic and the recommendations of public health experts. By staying informed and adhering to the most up-to-date protocols, couples, guests, and wedding industry professionals can work together to create a safe and memorable experience for all involved while navigating the challenges presented by COVID-19.
The requirement for face coverings at weddings in New Jersey is a critical component of the state's effort to balance celebration and safety. By mandating masks, the state aims to protect individuals and communities while also allowing couples to celebrate their special day. This measure reflects the ongoing need for caution and awareness of COVID-19, ensuring that weddings can proceed with joy and happiness while prioritizing the well-being of all attendees and staff. It is important to stay informed about any updates or adjustments to the guidelines as the situation evolves.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, weddings are allowed in New Jersey.
Wedding venues can operate at 35% of their indoor capacity or up to 150 people for receptions, whichever is less. Outdoor weddings can also operate with up to 150 people.
Yes, Gov. Murphy allowed virtual weddings in New Jersey in May 2020. Wedding ceremonies can be held using video conferencing technology, with certain safeguards, for couples seeking a marriage license.
Yes, indoor receptions must abide by indoor dining guidance, which requires that people eat and drink while seated and wear face coverings at all other times.
