If you or someone you love is planning to say ‘I do’ in the next few months, you already know how truly stressful this is for them. We are all in unchartered territory as we navigate through these uncertain times and never-ending restrictions and bans in regards to COVID-19. So what do we do from here?!?! If you or someone you love is getting married over the next few months here are some helpful tips that will hopefully bring you some peace as you try to make sound decisions about your sweet and special day!

>> Stay up to date <<

As much as we shouldn’t be completely consumed by the chaos or stay stuck in scroll mode as we search for updates, it IS important to stay up to date on the latest for the Coronavirus and how the restrictions/bans may affect you. It’s important to note that there are guidelines given at the Federal level, State level and County/City level… the C.D.C. also updates their COVID-19 information daily. On March 15, 2020, the C.D.C. recommended that all gatherings (of 50 people or more) be cancelled for the next eight weeks, including weddings. The President of the USA has also issued a ban on gatherings of 10 or more people until March 31, 2020; including any unnecessary travel. Depending on your location, there are likely other bans in place as well. For instance, Dare County has issued a visitor ban for OBX – and a ban on any event with 50 people or more… both bans do not have an end date issued. These restrictions and bans are constantly changing, so just keep that in mind when planning and making decisions.

>> Communicate with your vendors <<

I know this is a tough situation and emotions are high – you’re likely very stressed out (so are we, your vendors)… but if there’s one thing that can help eliminate a lot of that stress for all parties involved, it’s to communicate well. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your vendors and share how you’re feeling, ask for advice, or just get a feel for where there at in all of this.

>> Create a backup plan <<

If you have a wedding within the next eight weeks, it’s best that you start considering Plans B and C and conferring with your vendors. I think I speak for most vendors in that we are all willing to reschedule and be flexible with you. If you have a wedding outside of the next eight weeks, you should still reach out to your vendors, but you have time before activating back up plans. If you haven’t already begun thinking of the possibilities of it affecting your day, I think you’d be wise to at least consider them but continue planning accordingly and staying up to date with the latest restrictions. If you do have a wedding coming up in the next eight weeks and you are not willing to reschedule, you’ll need to consider revisiting your guest list and contacting your friends/family to ensure that you’re in compliance with any Federal/State/Local restrictions. You’ll also need to confirm with your vendors whether they are/are not willing to and/or can still provide services (be sure to refer to all of your contracts for more guidance here). Your vendors may not legally be allowed to (aka your venue) and/or they may not be comfortable doing so, as they or someone they love may be considered high-risk. So include all of your vendors and those you love in the conversation when establishing your backup plan.

>> Consider your friends/family <<

I think it’s safe to say that we want to be surrounded by our friends and family (no matter how that looks for you) – so definitely be sure to take into consideration those that would be in attendance. Will those you love be able to make it? Will it be safe for them if they do come or have to travel? Are any of your guests considered high risk? Are any of your guests living in the same household as someone who is considered high risk? These are all very important questions to ask yourself when making these tough decisions.

>> Decide what brings you the most peace <<

If you can stay updated on the latest, have clear communication with your vendors and others involved in your wedding, have a solid back up plan you can get to a place of determining which route will bring you the most peace. This is not an easy place to be – having to decide whether to continue on with something you’ve been dreaming of for SO long, but also wanting those you love to be safe and in good spirits… AND be able to make it. This is tough and just know that you have a community of vendors who are worried about you and truly want you to have the best possible experience.

Helpful resources:

C.D.C.
WHO
– and be sure to stay in the loop for your Local government as well 

This is such a difficult time for so many and having to make a decision like this doesn’t make things any easier.. so just remember, at the end of the day – your marriage is more important than your wedding day… the story you two are creating matters most. So many air hugs to you!!!