To our Fairies currently wondering how to plan their post-lockdown wedding, wedding planner and owner of Hire A Bridesmaid, Kerstyn Walsh, has offered the following tips…

1. Have Guest Guidelines

Be really clear what you are comfortable/not comfortable with regards to meeting/greeting and congratulating and brief your MC to make it clear for guests on the day, eg: ‘The couple are more than happy for you to greet them with a congratulatory cuddle but please keep in mind some guests may prefer to keep their distance.”

Be really clear what you are comfortable/not comfortable with regards to meeting/greeting and congratulating and brief your MC to make it clear for guests on the day, eg: ‘The couple are more than happy for you to greet them with a congratulatory cuddle but please keep in mind some guests may prefer to keep their distance.”

2. Be Budget-Wise 

Don’t be afraid to negotiate with suppliers to get the best deals.  If they want your business, they will often show some flexibility.  The worst they can say is ‘no’ and you’re free to then find another supplier within your budget.  Make sure you do your research though, as in all business, you get what you pay for so be mindful of just going for the ‘cheapest option’.  

Online sites such as Oneflare are a great way to shop around for the service and price that suits you. Be sure you set out your budget from day one of planning your wedding and include absolutely everything (ring, dress, honeymoon etc.) so you can keep an eye on where your dollars are going.

3. Tech-Up

If you have to reduce numbers because of budget or social distancing then check with the venue as you can opt to live-stream your video for non-attendees. This is particularly useful for overseas guests who are unable to attend or those you have had to ‘uninvite’ because of the requirement to reduce numbers.

4. Politely Uninvite

Don’t panic about asking people not to come – people understand that venues can’t accommodate for the same number of guests anymore.

5. Plan Ahead

Add an additional line to your invitation that says, ‘There will be no hard feelings if you become unwell before the wedding and we kindly request your non-attendance for the health and safety of others.”

And finally, remember that even though your wedding may be different than you planned, we will always celebrate love. Hosting a wedding is a beautiful way to bring some light and hope to your family and friends who may now want something to look forward to.  

Digital Content Coordinator: Zoe Kanlis

Featured Image: Hire A Bridesmaid