We are all so happy to get back to celebrations, but now the question is, how do we do it in a way where everyone feels safe? Has wedding etiquette changed? What is ok to ask of your guests? Even if some mandates are lifted, (Minnesota ended its mask mandate except for in child care settings) not everyone is 100% comfortable returning back to normal. The key is figuring out how to navigate these tricky waters, and we’ve asked Jaime Engebretson, Owner and Executive Event Planner of J’aime Events, how to do it.
YOUR WEDDING WEBSITE IS KEY
Just as you would use your wedding website to tell guests information about your event logistics and your registry, it’s also the place to inform them about Covid restrictions. Engebretson tells us, “I have been instructing my clients to utilize their wedding website more for sharing what policies or expectations their guests should have (mask-wearing required, no dancing, must be seated during meals, etc.)” This way, invitations can remain more traditional, with a line at the bottom that guests should check the wedding website for any changes, updates, and other info.
“I have been instructing my clients to utilize their wedding website more for sharing what policies or expectations their guests should have.”
J’aime Events
WEDDING ETIQUETTE: YOU CAN’T MANDATE, BUT CAN SUGGEST
With restrictions getting lifted, it’s difficult — or should we say can get awkward — to ban unvaccinated people from your wedding. Wedding etiquette aside, it’s your event, so if you feel strongly about this, you have every right to express your wishes. Engebretson suggests your wedding website say something like, “to ensure the health of all of our family and friends we ask that our guests consider getting vaccinated prior to our wedding events. [This will] protect those who are not eligible to get vaccinated such as kids who may be in attendance. If you are not comfortable attending we understand and will look forward to celebrating with you at a later date.” The same language could be used if you were asking guests to wear masks who might not want to.
YOU CAN STILL KEEP IT SMALL
Mahonen Photography
If you’ve whittled down your list to a small group of close friends and family, it doesn’t mean you now need to include a larger group just because mandates are lifting. Consider an intimate ceremony, and possibly a larger celebration later on with a larger group. There are a lot of benefits to this (plus an added excuse to get more wedding attire!)
We’ve got ideas on what to wear for a micro-wedding. And we’ve got you covered for celebrations of all sizes with a round-up of the latest bridal trends straight from the bridal runways.
