Your Wedding in 2022 and COVID: Things to Consider
There is no doubt that we are living in challenging times. Not only have many of us been forced to make personal sacrifices, but countless social gatherings have been cancelled or otherwise put on hold. However, there may also instances when the proverbial “show must go on”. Your 2022 wedding is a prime example.
How can you balance current COVID concerns in relation to the big day? What contingencies may need to be evaluated in advance? These and similar questions will be clearly addressed so that you can make the most logical choices without having to cancel the entire wedding.
Current COVID Restrictions
The good news is that (at the time that this article was written) the Omicron COVID variant seems less dangerous than its previous counterparts. However, evidence clearly suggests that it is also more transmissible. This is why it is important to adhere to all relevant concerns such as:
- Limiting the number of guests at the wedding and subsequent reception.
- Adopting the appropriate social distancing measures.
- Considering whom to invite in terms of health issues (such as the elderly or those with pre-existing medical conditions).
It is always wise to speak with a local health professional as well as the venue owner in order to determine if any other steps may need to be taken.
Plan Ahead for Guest List Changes
One of the challenges directly associated with COVID is that symptoms can occur rather quickly. This might have an impact upon the number of attendees at your wedding. For example, a guest may test positive for COVID one week prior to the event. Current government regulations mandate that this individual (as well as anyone who has been in close contact) must remain in isolation for ten days (1). This is why embracing a sense of flexibility is crucial.
What if Support Staff Cancel?
One recent headline associated with the holidays involves the cancellation of thousands of airline flights due to staff members testing positive for COVID. So, it is not unreasonable to assume that this same scenario could come to pass on or immediately before your wedding. What options do you have? For instance, what if a wedding photographer becomes ill and is no longer able to immortalise your special day with images?
The best solution is to work with companies such as Piers Photography which have built up a network of reliable photographers over 30 years and has received countless positive customer reviews. In the unlikely event that one is not able to attend, another can be chosen without being forced to sacrifice quality or integrity. The same holds true for other firms such as caterers and transportation.
Choose an Outdoor Venue
Current data suggest that COVID (and the Omicron variant) spread more rapidly within indoor settings. This is why it could be prudent to choose an outdoor venue with plenty of space. Additionally, social distancing might not be as much of a concern if guests are provided with ample room and open-air ventilation. If winter weather prevents this option, it may be better to postpone your wedding until the warmer months arrive.
Safe Precautions Will Provide Memories to Last a Lifetime
Please note that this article was written in accordance with current COVID information and the suggestions above apply to England. Different guidelines may be relevant elsewhere throughout the United Kingdom. Be sure to check with local authorities or refer to official websites to learn more.
Would you like to book a reservation with one of our professional wedding photographers? Do you have questions about how Piers Photography is coping with COVID demands? If so, please contact us at your discretion.
Sources:
1. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/self-isolation-and-treatment/how-long-to-self-isolate/#:~:text=Your%20self%2Disolation%20period%20includes%20the%20day%20you%20were%20last,you%20do%20not%20self%2Disolate.
