Change the Date
With weddings in 2020 either rescheduled or downscaled to fall in line with current government restriction, Kate Park, Owner of Kate Park Events, discusses the impact on her business on what agencies such as hers can do to help
After nearly twenty years in the wedding industry I thought I’d seen it all, but the last four months has been by far the most challenging time we have ever experienced. It has been heartbreaking for couples to have their weddings cancelled or postponed, agonisingly close to their big day.
When rumours of a lockdown surfaced in early March, at Kate Park Events our priority was as always, our clients. We acted quickly and ensured that contingencies were in place, which meant that once the lockdown was confirmed, we could ensure the transition was as smooth as possible for our couples.
Working our way through our events, we prioritised those affected by the initial three months of the lockdown, but also looked to prepare for its extension; Inevitably we had to reschedule all of our 2020 weddings to later dates.
Although planning and preparations have continued throughout, everyone in the industry was anxiously awaiting government advice as to when, and how, weddings would be able to resume. We saw the first glimmer of hope with the announcement of rules permitting socially distanced ceremonies with numbers of up to thirty attendees. Whilst this news is a positive step for the wedding and events industry, it is unfortunately still very limiting. Although a ceremony can now take place, the restrictions on numbers, no music, and the lack of celebrations that can follow mean that for most the latest update changes very little.
Despite the unique challenges that we have been presented with, we have remained positive throughout. We are fortunate enough to be planning weddings for some wonderful people who have never lost sight of their big day, and together we will make sure that when we do eventually get the chance to celebrate, we will certainly make the most of it!
As restrictions continue to be lifted, new guidance will make the organisation and running of events more feasible and we are looking forward to getting back up and running. One of the biggest changes we suggest for a safe environment is to bypass the drinks reception. Instead the wedding should flow straight from the ceremony into the wedding breakfast; A glass of champagne will be waiting for a toast to the couple, and individually plated canapes positioned for every guest. Considered table arrangements will make it possible for the bride and groom to circulate and interact with their guests.
Other steps we can take to ensure the safety of our clients and guests include spacious reserved seating at the ceremony, pre-existing ‘bubbles’ seated together and the installation of large podiums around the room in replacement of the usual dance floor.
These are just some of the measures we are recommending and we have lots of new ideas at the ready for almost any situation. For many clients that means continuing to design and plan their weddings so when the restrictions have been lifted, we can celebrate like never before. And for those who are determined to have their wedding this year, we will do whatever it takes to make your day as special and as memorable as ever!
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