2020 has certainly shaken up life for all, especially new couples who were planning to have their dream weddings this Summer. One of my wonderful repeat event clients called me and shared her new plans to marry without waiting for all of the pandemic overwhelm to fizzle. She wanted to do so with the safest options in place. In 2 short and sweet weeks, we made that happen. I’ll share a few things that made this process adaptable and meaningful.
1. BE WILLING TO ADJUST AND PIVOT
I’ve worked with Tammie before and each time we planned something, it was EPIC. And, I’m pretty sure that she wanted her wedding day to be filled with family and friends, lavish decor, and a long night of dancing with lots of hugs and selfies. She knew that her original plans would have to be adjusted and we immediately kicked in to Plan B or C:)
2. FIND AN ACCOMMODATING VENUE
She set her venue at her parent’s stunning home, complete with a pond. It was best to find a space that was outdoors and allowed guests to spread out and practice social distancing. The Arkansas weather was very friendly and complimented her plans to get married by the pond. It was perfect.
3. ADJUST YOUR GUEST LIST
To be in compliance with state rules and regulations, the couple invited immediate family to witness the union. And, with the use of social media, the ceremony was live streamed on facebook for those that couldn’t travel or be in attendance to our “new normal”.
4. RETHINK THE TRADITIONAL RECEPTION
Before the family went into the home for dinner, a live band performed allowing the couple to have their first dance on the lawn. The traditional bouquet and garter toss was still included for the attending guests. In lieu of the traditional reception, a family member prepared a beautiful dinner and a table was set with the fresh floral from the ceremony and stunning china owned by the mother of the bride. The family style seating was a great touch. The sweet ending to the evening was seeing the couple cut their beautiful wedding cake in the dining room.
5. GIVE THOUGHT TO YOUR FAVORS
The guests were definitely in Tammie’s thoughts when it came to gifting them with a “Thank You”. Each guest received custom spray hand sanitizer and an accordion fan to help ward off heat. Ice cold water bottles were also provided for guests as they took their seats.
6. FOCUS ON THE MOMENT
Although plans drastically changed, the intimate adjustments made this wedding day just as memorable and breathtaking. Without all of the distractions and decisions of traditional wedding planning, you can embrace the true reason you are celebrating your love.
Hope you were able to get a few ideas on how to plan your Summer wedding this year. Happy Planning!
