When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. It’s been a trying time for many couples who have had to postpone or reschedule their wedding plans this year. Know that we fully support and respect your decision on that matter. However, if you want to get married during the pandemic, you certainly still can. Adhering to health guidelines and keeping up to date with Toronto’s rules is a must. Here’s how you can celebrate your love and wedding during COVID-19:
Downscaling
The guidelines for social gatherings and weddings change periodically depending on the current situation. The Toronto website says they allow only a maximum of 10 people for weddings. This may be an issue for others who have planned for a bigger celebration. Some might see no problem with this. Regardless, be ready to downsize your guest list significantly if you push through with the “I do’s.”
Wedding Ideas
Large gatherings are definitely a no-no in the new normal. The most we can do is have an intimate wedding with 10 people present. The beauty and essence of your nuptials will shine through despite the circumstances. Fret not, these are some ways you can still push through with your wedding plans.
- Have a civil wedding. Even though city hall weddings are not an option at the moment, you can still have a simple signing of papers and be legally wed. You must have a licensed officiant and two witnesses. This is straightforward and simple. Ultimately, you and your partner are a true wedded couple.
- Elopement. Many couples choose elopements compared to larger celebrations because they relish the intimacy it provides. Here, you can have a very special ceremony headed by an officiant with at least two witnesses. You can invite more guests but remember the ruling of 10 people in an area for weddings. You can have a special program and say your vows too.
- Intimate wedding. This is the closest to a “normal” wedding that you can have. Currently, Toronto allows a maximum of ten people for social gatherings. Aside from the two of you and your officiant, you can have seven other guests to celebrate with you. In observance of social distancing, you can proceed with a ceremony and have a small reception after.
- Virtual wedding. You can choose any of the three types of wedding options above and add a virtual component to it. This way, your momentous occasion can still involve your friends and family.
Other considerations
Health Protocols. Any gathering, whether it’s a simple signing of papers or an intimate wedding, must follow health guidelines. Guest must strictly observe social distancing and wearing of masks at all times.
Reception. It may be the safest option not to have a reception anymore. However, if your guests all come from the same household as you, you may have a small celebration afterward. As usual, we observe social distancing and other health protocols.
Choosing vendors. A wedding can be simple with no frills at all, or you can still have a venue decorated for your big day. Choosing vendors that can adapt to the circumstances are extremely important. Make sure your venue can accommodate social distancing guidelines. Your stylist and officiant must be flexible in adapting to COVID-19 regulations, as well. Should you decide on a small reception, be absolutely sure about safe food preparation along with the cutlery they provide.
Tips
- To get the most out of your wedding day, we suggest looking for packages to make the flow go smoothly with the least hassle. Companies that offer all-inclusive services can assemble and fix everything you need for a well-ordered program.
- Consider a bigger celebration once the situation is better. There is nothing wrong with wanting to get married now and having a second, bigger wedding when the situation permits. You can celebrate love as many times as you want. In this sense, there are no rules to follow.
For more details regarding Toronto’s regulations on weddings, check out these references:
Whatever your choice may be, you and your partner know what is best for your relationship. Love is not and will never be canceled.
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