Planning a Physically Distanced, but Socially Intimate Wedding

“Though we may be far apart, we are always close at heart.” 

To every couple who has had their wedding arrangements disrupted as a result of the global COVID-19 pandemic, our hearts truly go out to you. Though we wish on your behalf that things could return to normal as soon as possible, we also see that it may not be a realistic expectation. Rather, we want to provide you with some suggestions if you’re considering cancelling or changing your wedding during this time. 

1. We are physically distancing, but that doesn’t mean we can’t be socially intimate. 

Remember that just because we are physically distancing ourselves from one another doesn’t mean we can’t engage socially! We have had to find new ways to form relationships and enjoy the social company of others. This is true for any occasion but even more so for your wedding. Remember that the purpose of your wedding is for your loved ones to witness your special moment – to rejoice in the love that you’re celebrating with them. Despite COVID-19, we believe it’s still very possible to capture the essence of your celebration. Having this mindset first and foremost translates to a less stressful, more enjoyable, and a more true-to-you planning experience. 

1. Live Stream Your Wedding

One of the easiest ways to share your special day with those you love, wherever they may be in the world, is to live stream your wedding. Ask those around you or find an AV expert who could assist in broadcasting the important moments (such as your ceremony and speeches) and projecting your guests for you to see. It’s also easy to share media you may have prepared in advance (such as a video/slideshow) through this format. 

1. Modified Wedding Format

We’ve seen so many of our couples get creative with modified weddings in these times. There are a few approaches for you to consider:

1. Elope
   1. Eloping is perfect for the couples who dreamt of an intimate wedding but may have felt pressured to hold a big party. This is ideal for those who want to proceed with their symbolic/legal ceremony and would prefer not to postpone their special day. Many vendors are also really flexible and accommodating for couples who are looking to elope! Elopements give the couple time to savor their special day with one another and enjoy the provisions from the vendors they’ve chosen.
2. Micro Weddings
   1. Given the current restrictions on gatherings of no more than 50 people, a micro wedding is not out of the picture! This is an ideal option for those who have larger families or really important friends they want by their side. Doing a microwedding may allow room in your budget to splurge on one really important element of your wedding such as food, live entertainment, or the bar. 

1. Wedding via Shifts
   1. A little more out of the ordinary, a shift wedding is a great way to accommodate a bigger guest list. This option is ideal for those with lots of loved ones who may already have made travel plans or wouldn’t miss your big day for the world. Coordinate with your guests, venue, and vendors to host your guests in shifts – this way your vendor investments mostly stay in place and the physical distancing guidelines are kept. 

We hope this compilation of tips for a physically distanced but still socially intimate wedding is helpful during this time. Though we may all be wishing for different circumstances, this is the time to remember that though we may be far apart, we are always close at heart.

For over 15 years, Visionary Catering has been catering to Calgary’s downtown corporate community as well as catering events. Contact Visionary to bring your function to the next level.

Email: order@visionarycatering.com

Phone: 403-264-7447