These are crazy times we live in. Weddings are being jeopardized during the Coronavirus pandemic and it’s time to start looking at alternative options.

The government is banning gatherings of 50 or more for the next 8 weeks. If your wedding falls within that timeframe (now-May 16), it’s time to start implementing a plan B. If your wedding is May 17-end of July, now is time to create a plan B in case the Coronavirus is still prevalent by then.

4 options for your wedding during the Coronavirus pandemic

1. Small ceremony now, large reception later
2. Backyard affair
3. Virtual ceremony
4. Postpone the wedding

It’s important to note that the first 3 options are reliant on your ability to get your marriage license. A lot of license offices are closing due to the virus so holding an event without the license would be more symbolic than anything. If you cannot get your marriage license, postponing the actual marriage is your only option.

If you’re considering a small wedding, read this blog post to help you shift your mindset.

Small now, large later

If you had your heart set on your wedding date, the first 3 options are the best for you, and could even all be combined.
Cut the guest list down to below 50 (include your vendors in the headcount), and host the big party once this craziness passes.
Most wedding venues are still hosting events for less than 50 people. Given the circumstances, the majority are also willing to work with you on splitting your wedding between two days.

Backyard affair

If you or someone you know has enough space, and your venue isn’t allowing any events, a backyard wedding is a super intimate way to get married.
Since the whole point of limiting events and social distancing is to “flatten the curve” and limit the spread of Coronavirus, I strongly encourage keeping the guest list below 50.

Virtual ceremony

I personally know 2 videographer teams who are offering live stream coverage of your ceremony for $500.
Rushing Productions
Lumen Studios
You could also create a Facebook group with your wedding guests and live stream the ceremony to them. Or set up a Zoom call with guests so they can interact with you and it will feel more like they’re there.
You could add this to your small ceremony or backyard affair. Or you could cut the guest list completely, go somewhere cool like a local park or somewhere the two of you like to go together, bring your photographer, videographer and officiant, and live stream the ceremony from there.

Postpone

It is heartbreaking and stressful to consider postponing your wedding, but it is the best option for having the wedding you’ve been dreaming about, and the wedding you’ve spent months planning.
Check out this article on tips for postponing your wedding.

If you need more support and would like to talk to a live person, I’ve made time in my schedule to help those impacted. Click here to schedule a free consult.