COVID-19 has thrown us all for a loop, but couples planning on getting married in 2021 are finally seeing a light at the end of the tunnel. As gatherings of larger groups return for wedding season this year, many of our clients are asking what they can do to help make their guests feel more comfortable attending their event. In 2020, Megan Estrada, the CEO of NSWE Events, established the Covid-19 Task Forces for the National Association for Catering and Events (NACE) in Illinois, Florida, New York, Massachusetts and Virginia. She has emerged as an industry leader driving the state and city governments to create safety guidelines to help event professionals and engaged couples across the country safely plan and host events. As the National Advocacy Team Leader for NACE she has developed a list of best practices for couples to think about when planning your wedding. As always, it is important to refer to your state guidelines, but this is a good place to start!
- Add a tab to your wedding website listing all the precautions you’re taking at your events for all guests to reference in advance when deciding on their RSVPs/plans
- Request all guests be vaccinated or get PCR within 72 hours of attendance
- Track guests who will be vaccinated by asking on the Response Cards
- Request all guests wear masks when not eating or drinking
- Create a few hand sanitizing stations scattered around your event spaces to encourage guests to keep their hands clean when socializing and before/after eating
- Give the guests some room! Make table seating more comfortable and provide more elbow room
- Outdoor venues- consider hosting your event at an outdoor venue. A tent is always classic!
- Consult with your caterer to find ideal ways to serve hors d’oeuvres in individual containers instead of big, communal spreads
- Ask the caterer and vendors if they will be vaccinated or be tested prior to working
- Use the whole room for dancing rather than one specific area
Hopefully these slight adjustments can help you and your guests return to celebrating safely and enjoying your wedding with all those who are important to you.
-NSWE Team