7 Smart Tips To Plan A Social Distance Wedding

Can you social distance at a wedding? How do you plan a social distance wedding? How do you social distance at a wedding reception? All of these questions about social distancing at wedding receptions arose cause of COVID-19 and we have some answers.

Include Distancing Wedding Rules For Guests

By having the social distancing wedding rules in place well ahead of time, guests can know what they are expected to do (i.e. wear a mask, use hand sanitizer, etc.) and everyone will be “on the same page”. You may include a card inside your wedding invitation with a few notes on how you’re preparing for COVID-19. But the best place to include these details is on your wedding website. Include a link to your wedding website on your invitations and guests will read all the information they need to know on your website.

Discuss Proper Safeguards That Are in Place With Your Wedding Venue

The staff at your venue will work with you on what needs to be done to social distance wedding guests and let you know what they are doing to keep guests safe. Having a chat with them about the plans for your upcoming day will make you feel more comfortable. Many venues are also increasing their sanitization practices, so don’t be surprised if you see staff wiping down the bar, kitchen, bathrooms, etc. frequently and wearing masks. You can include a helpful reminder at your venue with a sign like this to encourage guests to practice social distancing.

Provide Face Masks For Wedding Guests To Wear

Guests should be wearing masks at all times, especially indoors. Face masks should be provided for guests at the entryway of your ceremony and/or reception sites. You can include them in a basket with a sign.

Set Up Hand Sanitizer Stations

Hand sanitizer should be readily available for guests in different areas of the wedding: the entryway of your ceremony and reception, on reception tables, at the bar, and in restrooms. In addition, you can give hand sanitizer favors to guests so everyone has their own individual bottle or spray.

Seat Guests Apart At The Ceremony And Reception

Guests should be seated 6 feet apart at the ceremony, based on social distancing wedding rules; guests should be wearing masks at all times (especially when indoors). You can use markers on seats or pews to keep guests from sitting too close. Guests will appreciate the extra care and attention that went into planning ahead to keep everyone healthy.

Have an Extra Outdoor Space for Guests

If possible, offer extra space for guests to mingle outdoors, so the guests will spread out more, which will easily increase social distancing at your wedding, and spend more time outdoors (so indoors won’t be as crowded).

Switch From A Buffet For Plated Dinner And Dessert

Most venues are changing out buffet lines for plated dinner, served individually tableside to guests. This makes an easier exchange for guests and eliminates the exchange of tongs and utensils at buffet lines, keeping everyone safe.

If you are suddenly changing your plans from a buffet to plated dinner, you may need to send an RSVP card with menu choices on it with your invitations.

Include Social Distance Stickers In Areas That Need Them

Floor stickers are a great idea per social distance wedding guidelines. The most popular place to put them is probably leading up to the bar, where guests will be forming a line. You may also need them in line at a guest book table, so guests can stand in line 6 feet apart. Use these floor decals to remind guests to stand distanced.