What are the new wedding rules in England?

We have been asked to clarify the situation of the new wedding rules by our readers this morning.  Our understanding is that more than 30 guests will be able to attend a wedding from 21 June.

There is no set maximum number of guests who can be invited. However, venues must comply with social distancing rules, which will limit how many people they can host. They must also provide table service.

If you are holding a wedding in a private setting - such as a garden - you need to complete a risk assessment to determine how many guests you can host safely.

To find out more about the new rules for both wedding ceremonies and receptions please follow the link:

www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-wedding-and-civil-partnership-ceremonies-receptions-and-celebrations

 

What are the rules in Scotland?

The number of people who can attend a wedding and reception varies:

• Level two restriction area - up to 50
• Level one - up to 100
• Level zero - up to 200

The maximum number of people depends on the size of the venue and whether social distancing can be maintained. The marrying couple and witnesses are included in this number.

Food and drink must be served at tables. Alcohol can be served until 22:30 in level two areas, 23:00 in level one areas, and in line with local licensing laws in level zero areas.

What are the rules in Wales?

Weddings and civil partnerships can take place in "approved premises", up to the capacity of the venue given social distancing requirements.

Venues must take all reasonable measures to minimise Covid spread.

Face coverings must be worn indoors by everyone (aged 11 and over) when not eating or drinking, unless they have a reasonable excuse.

This does not apply to the married couple or the person officiating.

Wedding receptions can be in regulated venues for up to 30 people indoors (outdoors limit set by Covid-risk assessment of venue), not including children under 11. They cannot take place in private homes or gardens.

Food and drink are permitted in line with hospitality guidance.

Physical distancing should be maintained at tables to avoid households mixing.

What are the rules in Northern Ireland?

There is no limit on the number of people at a wedding, but venues must assess how many they can safely accommodate.

During the ceremony, face coverings must be worn by everyone (unless exempt), apart from the wedding couple and the person officiating.

Receptions can take place but:

• There's no restriction on the number of people at the top table, but no more than 10 people (not including children) at every other table
• You need to wear a mask when not seated
• The wedding couple can have one dance only
• Pre-recorded music is permitted at background level

An "indicative" date of 21 June (subject to 17 June review) has been set to allowed live music at "ambient levels". But dancing will still not be allowed.

 

 

Small is beautiful

During these uncertain times with the COVID19 pandemic nothing in life has been normal, weddings included.

We’ve had so many questions come in from Brides-to be wondering how weddings will look in the future and whether their weddings will even be able to take place this year.  As it stands at the time of writing this blog, we still have no clear instructions as to how and when weddings may recommence but it would seem that large weddings may be a thing of the past and that smaller weddings may be the way to go.  So here are a few ideas for the smaller wedding.

• Having fewer people on your guest list gives you so much scope to have a really intimate and meaningful wedding.  If you are lucky enough to have a big garden, why not plan an alfresco dinner with just a few of your closest family and friends

• Decide what’s most important to you and your partner, with a smaller wedding there may not be a need for Order of Service or Wedding Favours so why not spend the money saved on making your invitation memorable and something that each guest will want to keep as a remembrance of the day.

• A fantastic Photographer is also a great investment for the smaller wedding.  The guests that you choose will make for creating an intimate atmosphere where your photographer will be able to capture the laughter, tears and those moments you’ll treasure most.

• Then of course there’s the menu.  With fewer guests you can be highly indulgent and creative with your choices – pairing fine wines with each course.

• Remember to make your space count.  Consider lighting, flowers, fabrics and anything that create an ambience for the whole space and not just the tables.  Consider the lighting and add those little touches that will be remembered for years to come.  Why not include some family heirlooms such as china dinner services.

 

The other thing we have heard from Brides so many times during this ‘lock-down’ is that they feel that their ‘Happy Ever After’ has been taken away from them. 

Always remember, your wedding day is only just the gateway to your Happy Ever After.  This begins in the days, months and years after the wedding.

Take care and stay safe!