With constant Covid waves, it is useful to consider how the wedding planning can continue, the safest way possible. We know that it is even more stressful planning during a peak and heading out to get things done can be daunting. You may take a break from planning, but at some point, the planning must go on! Here are some ways to keep planning without hopefully, putting your health at risk.
The Venue
If you are worried about venturing out during a Covid wave for venue viewing, consider this:
- Use a venue that you have seen before. You already know how it made you feel, the potential for decorating and the guest capacity
- For a new venue, find out about virtual tours
Catering
Food is such an important part of the wedding, so a tasting beforehand is just as important!
- Ask you caterer if they can pack some food tasters in take-away containers so you can have a tasting from home
- Use a caterer that you've used or experienced before so you can book now and then taste the dishes that you will be serving, later when it is safer
Vendors
All other vendors such as the decor, make-up artist and hairstylist, photographer etc. are going to play big parts in your wedding day and it is important to consider them carefully before booking.
- Start by looking at the vendors portfolio online. Make sure you like their work and that they are trusted (and legit!)
- Send out queries over email about pricing and the style and requirements you have in mind to ensure they are able to assist you.
- Arrange a video meeting with your vendors- it is so important to make sure that you gel with your suppliers before booking because you will be spending a lot of time with them, both while planning and at your special day!
Decor
Once your decor vendor is booked, it is usually a good idea to meet with them to go through final details, choose table settings and backdrops as well as to show them the venue and the expectations.
- Either leave your venue walk-through for a later stage, or ask your vendor to have a look at a virtual tour and/or videos and photos of the venue, especially if they haven't worked there before
- If Covid numbers are still high, complete the final table settings over a video call
Shopping
Shopping during a Covid wave is risky and may rather be done online.
- Make sure you plan in advance when buying online. India items have a long lead time during Covid. If you don't have much time left, only order stock on hand.
- Make sure you are using a trusted site that has good reviews and/or someone you know has used before
- Get most of your other items delivered to you in advance and whatever else you need on the day can be delivered to the venue directly on the day such as pooja items, garlands and wedding favours
Guestlist
Since regulations are ever-changing during the pandemic, make sure you are well prepared for any situation.
- Have a smaller backup guestlist if Covid numbers get worse or if regulations change for any reason. Have another list of guests that will be invited to join the wedding through a Zoom link to watch the wedding if they cannot be present
Invitations
Luckily, technology has come a long way! For invitations, you can look at different options such as:
- Video invitations. This can be super special and unique.
- Wedding website: there are free options out there and will even help with the RSVP process.
- Whatsapp save-the-dates.
- And not forgetting the good ol' telephone call out of courtesy!
Planning a wedding during Covid can be very stressful. Make sure you stay organised with a Sanskara Wedding Planner Diary! Make the journey more memorable by involving friends and family in the planning over video calls, arrange planning dates with your partner, and by taking some me time for yourself with your "Miss to Mrs Box"!