On New Year’s Eve, I found myself enjoying a steak in my comfy pants, tuning in to my friend’s wedding via Zoom, and then indulging in a relaxing bath. I was tucked into bed before 8:00 p.m. It was simply wonderful.
While I would have loved to witness my friend say “I do” in her stunning gold gown (she didn’t hold back despite the limitations on large gatherings, and I admire her for that), watching her nuptials from my pajamas was just as enjoyable.
Let’s be honest — life is a lot better without Spanx, heels, and a bothersome hairstyle.
My friend and her soon-to-be husband decided in 2020 that they wanted to tie the knot. Their primary focus was starting their life together, so they didn’t let the pandemic deter them. However, they understood that adjustments to their original plans were necessary.
They sent out wedding invitations that included a link to the Zoom meeting, resulting in a brief yet heartfelt ceremony that allowed everyone to participate without risking their health.
We’ve seen how weddings can become superspreader events. Last summer, a small wedding near my hometown led to 176 COVID-19 infections and even a death. With only 68 guests present, the event caused a ripple effect that infected three times that number. Just think about it — an afternoon of dancing and mingling turned into one of the largest outbreaks in the state, all of which could have been avoided.
Thankfully, potential wedding attendees seem to be reconsidering their plans. A recent survey conducted by Floridapanhandle.com, which gathered responses from 3,000 Americans nationwide, revealed that 57% of participants are uncomfortable flying to a wedding in 2021, regardless of the circumstances.
So, even if you plan to host a small gathering where everyone wears masks, it may be wise to rethink your vision of a large celebration if you truly want everyone to be there in person. It’s possible to have your dream day, but it might mean waiting a little longer. Not only will you face numerous declines, but it’s essential to acknowledge that weddings involve eating, drinking, and mingling. People tend to let their guard down, dance, and forget about the ongoing pandemic. No one wants to be responsible for hosting an event that results in numerous infections and potential fatalities.
The survey found that if it were a family member getting married, 21% of people would feel comfortable flying, while 22% would attend if proper safety measures, like mask-wearing, were in place. Only 15% indicated they would come even if the guest list was limited. Those numbers aren’t very encouraging for anyone hoping for a good turnout on their special day. Plus, “small” can mean different things to different people — for some, it might be 50 guests, while for others, it could be just 15.
If you’re determined to have a big celebration with family, friends, and especially older relatives who might be traveling or those with compromised immune systems, you might want to postpone your wedding.
On the bright side, this extra time allows you to save money and plan even more thoughtfully (think of all the new ideas you’ll discover on Pinterest!). And if you’re open to exchanging vows with just the two of you while inviting your friends and family via Zoom, it can be a truly beautiful experience. My friend’s virtual wedding proved that no one blocked my view of the bride, I could watch from the comfort of my home, dressed as I pleased, and the couple didn’t have to worry about their day being marred by the pandemic.
We could all use a little joy right now, and weddings are generally magical. However, knowing that your special moment could turn into a superspreader event is disheartening. Since over half of your intended guests will likely feel the same way, it’s better to plan for a later, safer date or celebrate through a screen, ensuring no one is put at risk to honor your love story. For more insights, check out this related article.
Search Queries:
- Will people attend weddings during COVID-19?
- How to plan a wedding in 2021?
- Virtual wedding ideas for 2021.
- COVID-19 and weddings: what to consider.
- How to safely host a wedding during a pandemic.
Summary:
A recent survey shows that over half of Americans are reluctant to travel to weddings in 2021 due to health concerns related to COVID-19. While some couples are still eager to celebrate, many are reconsidering large gatherings. Virtual weddings are becoming a popular alternative, allowing couples to celebrate safely while including loved ones from afar.