How To Downsize Your Wedding
TIPS ON GETTING MARRIED IN A PANDEMIC
The coronavirus situation has been causing havoc with weddings, leaving couples across the country unsure as to what direction to go in. Whilst Covid 19 guidance is forever changing in the UK it is likely if you are still considering getting married in 2020 or early 2021, you need to seriously think about how you are going to downsize your celebration.
For all of you struggling with how to start the process of downsizing your wedding I have some tips and a little advice that may help you with the whole experience on what to keep and what to ditch.
Firstly let me start by telling you smaller, more intimate weddings are so personal and emotional with everyone in attendance being completely invested in your love for one another resulting in an atmosphere like no other. Think of it as an upgrade in the experience you can provide your guests and the people that really mean a lot to you.
Prioritise pictures
I think this is important, you need your day documented - However big or small. For all of those who cannot be there, they will want to see the images and if budget allows the video footage too. What’s more, every child wants to look at their parents’ wedding photos or grandparents’ wedding video, it’s a memory that will be passed down through generations and not worth handing over the responsibility to a family friend just because of the smaller guest numbers.
Image by The Unbridled
BE Ruthless
The biggest hurdle you are likely to face is culling the guest list and this will be personal for each and every couple. Invite people who mean the most to you, go with your heart and do not feel pressured by family to invite who they feel ‘should’ be there. Some tips that may make this easier to do includes getting rid of plus-ones that haven’t been around for long, call around and find out whether the guests you have down are comfortable attending - Remember each person is responding in their own way to the pandemic. Your guests are a key part of your day and the feeling of being surrounded by those who truly love you with the added bonus of being able to spend more time with them is an experience many couples with big weddings do not have the privilege of.
Image by Pierra G Photography
Image by Pierra G Photography
be fluid with budget
Smaller guest numbers will no doubt result in a saving on your budget however, elevate your guest experience - You may now be able to afford the 5 course wedding breakfast you had always dreamt of or perhaps suspended florals for wow factor that were just too much when catering for 100+ guests - Every cloud has it’s silver lining. Work with suppliers on downscaling the services previously booked and discuss alternative options available to you with them.
Image by The Unbridled
Image by The Unbridled
Style it out
Embrace the pandemic! Have masks made for guests to match your styling, create beautiful sanitising stations and speak to your venue about how to work alongside them and the restrictions. Ask your photographer to capture these things rather than cutting them out of your photo, every wedding has a story and this will be a good one to share one day!
STRIP IT RIGHT BACK
Are you struggling with the whole concept of a smaller wedding in place of your big party or do you need that piece of paper because it makes the next steps in life easier - having a baby, buying a house or opening a joint account? Why not elope, nobody can be offended at not being on the guest list, you can go somewhere incredible and have some beautiful pictures taken as a keepsake and you’ll be officially married. Read here for more tips on how to Marry Now, Party Later.
Image by The Unbridled
Image by The Unbridled
Don’t let Covid rain on your parade and don’t be afraid to go for it and go ahead with your more intimate wedding plans or downsize your wedding and achieve something incredibly special. Whether you need help planning a micro wedding, want to elope or simply need someone to talk to and reassure you that what you’re doing is right, contact Rebecca below.