When the first cases of COVID-19 in Arkansas were announced, couples around the state with spring and summer wedding dates were faced with a decision: Do we postpone our wedding? Or change our plans? While some couples have opted to reschedule their big days, others have moved forward with smaller, socially distanced celebrations—including all of the festivities leading up to special day.
To help navigate this new normal, we turned to Chris Norwood of Tipton & Hurst for ideas on re-envisioning your big day as a smaller, safer celebration. Read on for six suggestions on how to party on instead of postpone.
Register Online
If you’re still in the planning stages of your wedding, you’re in luck—so many of today’s stores now offer online bridal registry. While it’s hard to re-create the excitement of that in-store experience, take the opportunity to invite friends and family members who might not otherwise be involved. Having a hard time deciding between china patterns? Send a link of your favorites to your maid of honor and let her weigh in on which one best reflects your personality.
Shower From Afar
While social gatherings are still a no-no for now, your loved ones will undoubtably want to shower you and your betrothed with gifts to celebrate. A porch drop-off shower is the solution! If you’re hosting one of these showers, send virtual (or snail mail!) invitations to help the occasion feel official. Designate a time frame for people to drop off gifts, and decorate the porch so guests can easily find the right house.
Host a Virtual Party
In the months since the onset of the pandemic, friends have turned to Zoom, Skype, and FaceTime for virtual get-togethers. There’s no reason a bachelorette (or bachelor) party can’t take place via screen, too. Send out swag bags to your wedding party the week of that will help elevate the happy hour to party time—think matching T-shirts, silly sunglasses, and even single-serving snacks and drinks.
Focus on Florals
Forgoing a traditional reception doesn’t mean you have to forgo the flowers! A custom bridal bouquet, boutonnieres, and smaller arrangements for immediate family members help set the tone for the celebration—whether that’s elegant, playful, modern, or sophisticated. If your ceremony is outdoors, a floral arbor can create a stunning focal point for photographs as well as for friends and family live-streaming at home.
Celebrate with a Parade
A post-wedding parade puts a twist on the iconic tradition of a getaway car. Much like with a porch drop-off shower, friends and family are invited to drive by and share messages of congratulations with a quick wave, a honk, or a bottle of champagne. Members of the wedding party might consider decorating their cars with balloons or streamers and leading the line of cars to kick-off the congratulatory procession.
Toast with Your Loved Ones
No wedding day is complete without a toast of bubbly and a slice of cake! Invite your loved ones to tune in to a virtual cake cutting and toast as you celebrate not only a day, but a lifetime of memories ahead.