WEDDINGS AND PANDEMIC IMPACT

(September 2020)

While, for years, the cost and size of weddings have increased, a momentous event has changed the situation. In 2020, the COVID19 Pandemic has and will continue to have a huge impact on both elements.

Related Article: Wedding Insurance Coverage Analysis

The pandemic, for all intents, obliterated the 2020 Wedding Season. Initially, state-mandated shelter-at-home orders created a flurry of postponements. Initial postponements were then adjusted to 2021, but then cancellations became more prevalent.

Changed Wedding Environment

The environment for weddings is likely to be affected for years. Large weddings will be difficult to arrange due to several factors.

Limits on crowd size/gatherings – Many states put restrictions in place for the number of people that may gather for events such as weddings and receptions. In the absence of an effective vaccine, restrictions may remain ongoing.

Public fears – Guests, regardless gathering rules, may limit or eliminate personal travel and attendance at larger events, particularly the elderly and others who are in “at-risk” categories.

Scheduling/Venue Availability – Many weddings were postponed from ’20 to ’21, placing those events along with weddings that were already scheduled for that year. Some venues may not be available due to going out-of-business, self-imposed size restrictions as well as due to already being booked.

Social Distancing – Health concerns are such that there is little interest in attending large events where activities involve a high level of physical, celebratory behavior that may be influenced with alcohol and traditionally involving hugs and kisses from attendees.

Financial Hardship – Young couples and wedding sponsors may have been substantially impacted financially, such as a job loss, and may no longer be able to afford or plan for a large wedding.

Impact of Trends – Smaller weddings may be a necessity now but, later, regardless of economic rebounds and lifted restrictions, they may become a trend and replicated by future, engaged couples.

Ceremony Alternatives

Considering the new reality, many couples began exploring other options:

Miniature ceremonies – Some brides-to-be and yet-to-be grooms are changing their focus. In order to avoid unpredictable delays or to save costs, more couples are deciding on down-sized weddings. They are now emphasizing that their special day’s goal is to begin a life as spouses. The new plans allow a celebration with a small circle of family and loved ones rather than large weddings and receptions that are dominated by crowds.

Virtual Ceremonies – Through use of livestreaming, couples may be able to preserve some elements of a larger event. Others may just be focused on a smaller ceremony but sharing the experience with most of the persons they had hoped to be at a live event.