This blog was last updated in early January 2021 and is no longer being updated. Please see our coronavirus news article for the most up to date information or visit your government's website.
A Letter To Our Amazing Couples,
It's been 36 hours of mixed emotions and some inevitable confusion, while couples, venues and suppliers work out what the guidance means to their weddings.
For those that have weddings later this summer, you'll be joining us in watching these first larger weddings and hoping they go smoothly.
For those with weddings in the next 4 weeks in England, who've been needing to re-think their plans; we have fought so hard for higher numbers. We are all looking to you to show that weddings will be safe at a time most other activities are still restricted.
Your venue and suppliers wanted you to have your unrestricted wedding just as much as you did, however they are now restricted by law. Please don't ask them to do anything they aren't comfortable with. They risk a criminal record, serious fines and up to 2 years in prison. It's as frustrating for them as it is for you, but we are all in this together and we need to find a way through, together.
The key points:
- There is a requirement to take all reasonable steps to reduce the risk of Covid.
- Risk assessments are needed for any wedding ceremony or reception with 30+ guests in order to document ways that risk will be minimised.
- The most significant change is to numbers. It's not the full reopening we hoped for and many Step 3 restrictions on dancing, masks indoors, and seated meals still remain in place.
Clarification on areas causing confusion:
- While your venue must legally allow space for social distancing, it is your choice who you hug and kiss.
- Seating/table plans don't need space for social distancing on or between tables. Restrictions to 6 people does not apply.
- Other than the couple's first dance, dancing is advised against and dance floors are not allowed. Dancing outside is safer, but the rules are the same as inside (it just upsets the neighbours more!). Remember, you and your venue have to take all reasonable steps to reduce risk.
- All food should be served to seated guests. If you have committed to a buffet, hog roast, canapés or a sweetie cart it doesn't mean that you can't have them, just that you'd have to use waiters to deliver the food to seated guests.
- When it comes to photo booths, confetti and anything else the government hasn't thought about, look at whether it poses any increased risk. If it does, look at how you can decrease the risk and if you can't, sadly you may need to avoid it. Hand sanitiser can be an easy solution.
Our advice
Look at the government website for guidance. It is where local authorities will look when making decisions on whether to prosecute.
Take obvious steps like asking all guests to do a lateral flow test (a lot of venues are using Trusted Trace to help record the details) to prove you are doing all you can, and to reassure your guests.
Encourage vulnerable (or self-isolating) guests to join via live-stream.
Finally, if you test positive on your wedding day, it's hard but for the sake of those you love, you have to self-isolate.
As always, we're here to help with any questions.
Work with your venue and suppliers. There's a reason you chose them so give them the chance to give you a fantastic day. We look forward to seeing the photos!
With love,
Alison