If you’re confused by ever-changing COVID restrictions then you’re not alone! The past 12 months have proved an emotional rollercoaster for the entire wedding industry – and while we all dearly hope the end is in sight we still have some way to go.
“Stressful doesn’t even begin to describe the turmoil everyone has faced,” said Expresso’s Roland Schreiber.
“We have couples now on their fifth date. Who could have imagined what 2020 would bring?”
Roland said that while one or two lucky couples had managed to tie the knot in the past year, it had inevitably been a different day to the one they had originally planned, thanks to social distancing, masks and strict limits on numbers.
“We’re all keeping everything crossed that from 21 June all restrictions will be lifted,” he added.
So let’s have a look at how the roadmap relates to weddings!
How many guests am I allowed to have at my wedding?
Restrictions in place until Sunday 16 May 2021
- Max 15 guests (includes under fives, but not anyone working).
- Outdoor receptions only, consisting of a sit-down meal in an approved venue – no private gardens or public spaces!
- Reception guests seated in groups of six/or two families (we assume)
Restrictions: Monday 17 May – Sunday 20 June (govt. to confirm by 10 May)
- Max. 30 guests for ceremony and receptions (includes under fives, but not anyone working)
- Indoor social distancing guidelines to be observed between household bubbles
- Slimmed down ceremony – no communal singing
- Masks to be worn indoors (with the exception of the couple and celebrant)
- Indoor and outdoor receptions allowed – including the use of private gardens
- Outdoor social distancing requirements to be clarified (venues must be COVID secure)
- Outdoor gatherings limited to 30
Monday 21 June onwards (govt. to confirm by 14 May)
- No limits on gatherings – indoors or outdoors
“Across the wedding sector there’s without doubt an expectation that 21 June will see things swing into action again,” said Roland.
“However, it is of concern that yesterday Dominic Raab spoke of the possibility of some restrictions remaining in place beyond then, mentioning social distancing and mask wearing.
“Let’s hope that as far as weddings – and indeed other significant life events go – restrictions will be well and truly a thing of the past.”
Expresso is a well established, highly recommended wedding and event caterer, serving Norfolk and North Suffolk. Thinking of getting married? Get in touch!
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https://www.standard.co.uk/news/uk/dominic-raab-foreign-secretary-sophy-ridge-b932854.html
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