9 tips for planning your wedding during COVID-19

It has been a strange year: Masks are the latest accessory, toilet paper is like currency and getting paid to work from home is actually a thing. And to top it off, weddings are being downsized or canceled left and right. It’s a lot to process - especially if you were planning to celebrate one of the most exciting days of your life.

COVID-19 can quickly change your plans

For Cassidy + Garrett, their wedding planning experience has been nothing short of stressful. From changing venues and downsizing the guest list to finding vendors that are still operating during a pandemic, it has been a rollercoaster ride planning their wedding. And they’re not alone. Thousands of couples across the world are experiencing the same struggles with wedding planning, and as a result, “Change the Date” cards are the new Save the Date.

But after speaking with them about their wedding planning experience, I couldn’t help but be impressed with their positive outlook. Despite all of the road blocks and constant changes, they have been able to keep focused on the one thing that truly matters about their wedding day: Their love for each other. COVID-19 won’t take that away from them.

And so, that’s what we celebrated during their golden hour engagement shoot on the coast of Santa Barbara. Their love for each other and their excitement for what the future holds.

I cannot wait to capture their wedding day in September!

Here are 9 things to remember while planning a wedding during a pandemic

For those of you who are recently engaged or struggling to plan your wedding during the coronavirus pandemic, here are a few things to keep in mind.

1. Don’t forget the reason you’re getting married: Your love for each other.

2. Remember, you’re not alone! Whether you’re a couple or a vendor, everyone is experiencing this together. Be patient, be kind and be open.

3. Listen to officials and health organizations. At the end of the day, the safety of you and your loved ones is the most important thing. Frequently check your county’s health department website for updates. For Santa Barbara County, click here.

4. Don’t wait to have a back up plan. With situations and information changing daily, it’s important to know your options: Cancellation policies, decision dates, vendors, etc.

5. Communicate with your guests frequently. Do you have people traveling from out of town? At-risk friends or family? Your guests, like you, are trying to plan for the unknown. In unprecedented situations like this, transparency and communication is best.

6. If you have to make the difficult decision to postpone your wedding due to the pandemic, send out Change the Date cards. The Knot wrote a great article on everything you need to know about the cards.

7. Avoid printing dates, times or locations on swag and party favors. This way, if you have to postpone or change locations, you can still use these items later.

8. If you are postponing, don’t wait to reach out to vendors about your new desired wedding date. With many couples making the decision to postpone, 2021 is booking up quicker than normal. And before putting down any deposits, understand your rights and cancellation policies. After all, we’re in very uncertain times.

9. Prioritize your health: Physically and mentally. Wash your hands frequently, practice social distancing, and don’t forget to breathe. These are stressful times, remember to take care of yourself and your loved ones.

If you’re interested in booking me for 2021 and beyond, please don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m happy to discuss options, policies and back-up plans.

Stay safe and healthy!

Cheers,
Emma