Written by: Richha Arora, Arora Events
We have been watching the global impact and crisis of the COVID-19 (also called the novel Coronavirus) outbreak which the World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared as a pandemic. The events surrounding the situation are rapidly changing on an hourly basis, as governments and medical officials are taking drastic measures to ensure the health and safety of our communities.
These extenuating circumstances have impacted us all and this is unlike any situation we have ever had to deal with. With unexpected closures, restrictions and a climate of uncertainty, our compassion, understanding and patience are being tested, as we wait for our government and experts in the field to help us best navigate this temporary crisis.
These interruptions have impacted the event industry around the world tremendously and as a bride or groom to be, we understand that this can lead to feelings of sadness, anxiety and panic. While we are not medical experts, our experience as a leader in the wedding industry has helped us put together these helpful tips if you are a couple planning a wedding during these challenging times. It is important to know that the information we are receiving from government and medical experts is changing hourly and so it is in our opinion that these tips and advice are best suggested for those couples getting married within the next 8 weeks.
- Remember that you are not in this alone. Our entire vendor community is working through these new circumstances together and we all have the best interests of your wedding at heart. This affects small businesses just as much, so it is important that we treat each other with mutual respect, kindness and empathy while working towards a common goal of creating memorable moments.
- It is important to not panic and to base lucrative decisions pertaining to your wedding on scientific data provided by our governments, local medical authorities and experts. This will help protect you, your families and guests, but also those who work tirelessly to put your event together and make it a success. We trust them the same way you trust us!
- If your wedding or event is taking place in coming weeks, start talking to key wedding guests and vendors. How do they feel about attending a large gathering during this time? What policies does your venue have to ensure the health and safety of your guests? What are the rescheduling or cancellation policies in extenuating circumstances or ‘acts of god’ like this?
- Consider if you are being socially responsible. What are the current government advisories in effect right now and are you adhering to them? For example, if your wedding is expected to currently have 400 guests can you reduce your guest list to the current recommendations? Do you have any elderly guests or those especially vulnerable that may benefit from staying at home? Make it easier for guests to decline their RSVP last minute if they are feeling unwell or are sick.
- Do you have guests traveling from out of town? It is OK to politely ask them to change their plans given the circumstances.
- What can you do as a host to help your guests be safer? Can you offer a hand sanitizer station? Ask your MC to incorporate friendly hand washing reminders for guests and talk to your venue if there are any changes you can make to your menu or food service that makes it safer for guests to consume. For example, can you change a dessert table to a plated dessert? Maybe it’s a good idea to forego that chocolate fountain and ensure there is not refilling of wine at the table or drinks at the bar. Small steps like these help everyone and display that you are thinking in the best interest of your guests while they celebrate with you.
- As you continue your planning, opt for tele/virtual meetings where possible. If there are key meetings such as tastings, site visits and décor mock-ups you still have pending, limit the number of attendees and practice social distancing tactics (i.e. no hugs or handshakes and washing of hands before and after your meetings). It goes without saying, if you have traveled in the last 14 days ensure you are truthful and declare this to all meeting participants and if you are not feeling well please reschedule your meeting.
- Talk to your vendors about incorporating stricter protocols for a safer working environment. Ensure shared equipment is wiped down, ensure that makeup/hair artists are washing their hands directly before and after performing services, have your limo driver/company wipe down the vehicle seats before and after you get in.
- Given current Canadian travel advisories, have you thought about postponing any wedding related travel? For example, out of town bachelor/bachelorette parties and/or your honeymoon may be suited for an alternate time until these advisories are lifted and it is an overall happier and safer time to enjoy these trips.
- Finally, take care of yourself and your loved ones. Try limiting your intake of news to a couple of times a day including the spread of misinformation and personal opinion on social media. Continue to exercise, drink lots of water and eat healthy and immune boosting foods to keep you healthy for your special day.
As the global environment changes rapidly during this time we have to adapt. We need to understand that the decisions we make during this time might force us to change the nature or scope of our events as well. Our patience with each other and for everyone around the world working tirelessly to get us all through this crisis is of utmost importance and we can only overcome this together as a team.
If you are working with a planner we encourage you to use their expertise as a resource but also understand that this is new for them too – they might not have all the answers right away but they are on your team and are always working in your best interest and in the safety of their businesses, teams and vendor partners. If you are planning this event on your own, we gladly open the lines of communication and you may contact us at any time for support, guidance or for any resources that can help you best navigate the current landscape.
We look forward to a beautiful, memorable and stronger than ever 2020 wedding season in the months to come!
– Richha Arora
