COVID-19: The New Normal when it comes to 'I Do'

Weddings across the globe have been put on hold for the time being, resulting in a "Domino Effect", thanks to the pandemic.

Most weddings are expected to be pushed to the latter half of 2020 or the beginning of 2021. However, on the brighter side, in lieu of the nationwide lockdown to-be-weds can utilise this time to better plan their wedding once the virus threat is down to negligible.

The 'New Normal' for celebrating weddings in the post-COVID-19 world is going to be different. With social distancing becoming the norm, weddings will be smaller, more intimate, and with emphasis on top-notch hygiene standards as well as ensure contactless services. Given this situation, to limit risks and ensure safety, couples who plan to celebrate their weddings during the latter half of the year will have to consider altering their wedding plans.

Here are some precautionary tips and measures to help couples plan their big day:

Open-air venue and well-spaced out table arrangements

In the post-pandemic era, people will look forward to socialising again, however, they are still expected to be skeptical about attending mass gatherings. In such a world full of heightened cautiousness, wedding planners or couples need to take all precautionary measures while organising mass gatherings, especially weddings. An open-air or outdoor wedding means plenty of space, which could help people maintain physical distancing as compared to an indoor wedding. Furthermore, a well-thought-out seating arrangement is essential to reduce risks. Venues should organise bigger tables with limited seating to maintain distance between people. For instance, a table for 10 should be assigned to 5 guests only.

Tweaking the buffet-style service

The highlight of any Indian wedding is its lavish buffet. In an effort to comply with physical distancing measures, this is about to change too.

As weddings go local, they also go virtual

In the aftermath of the pandemic, we can expect couples to opt for local weddings in their hometowns, instead of destination weddings. Additionally, overseas guests may prefer being a part of the celebration virtually, due to restrictions for non-essential travel. Furthermore, live streaming wedding ceremonies are a foreseeable trend in the near future. Therefore, wedding planners and venue operators can expect a surge in demand for such services post-COVID-19.

Impeccable hygiene standards

Right from the entry to exit, venues need to place sanitizers and hand napkins at every point. Guests should be able to sanitize their hands on arrival, have access to cleaning and protective equipment at their tables, ample availability of handwashes and sanitizers should be made in the washrooms.

Adapt to a post-COVID-19 culture

Societal norms call for handshakes and hugs during milestones and celebrations like weddings. With the entire world maintaining social distancing, couples will prefer to opt-out of the gift-exchange and photo sessions that typically occur at wedding receptions. The new normal for weddings across the world is going to be significantly different. (IANS) 

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