SWITCHING TO AN INTIMATE WEDDING? Here Are 3 Vendors to Consider Keeping
May 6, 2020
Seven weeks in to the pandemic crisis and the wedding world as we know it has changed most likely for the rest of 2020 (and beyond?). Many couples have postponed their weddings entirely until 2021, others have scrapped the wedding day idea for an elopement instead, while others still are planning for a smaller, more intimate ceremony this year followed by a bangin’ party next year.
For those in the second and third categories- eloping, or keeping a ceremony and an intimate event for this year while having the party next year- allow me to recommend three types of vendors you should seriously consider keeping.
1# PHOTOGRAPHER
(Am I biased? I might be.)
Photos should never be taken for granted. Whether your event is large or small, they’ll be cherished for a lifetime because they capture such an important moment of your lives together. It’ll also be less stressful, more enjoyable without the pressure of the traditional wedding timeline cramping on the portrait time.
Enjoy your ceremony (and maybe a dinner afterwards with your close loved ones barring any state restrictions on small gatherings), and take your time with your portraits.
I want to add here that if you’re in the “Ceremony Now/Party Times Later” category, many photographers are willing to divide your collection coverage into the two dates so both are covered. If you find you need more time for the second date, you can always add on where needed.
#2 FLORIST
This might seem like a vendor you can forego and DIY, but beautiful floral scapes and designs go A LONG WAY in elevating your intimate wedding. You can keep it simple by opting for a bouquet only as well as florals decorating the arbor/altar. If you want to go a bit extra, things like boutonnieres, corsages and simple table centerpieces or table runners for the celebratory dinner can make all the world of a difference.
The best part about florists is that they can arrive early to set up with minimal in-person contact. In the world of Covid-19, that’s a big deal.
#3 SMALL-SCALE CATERING
If you’re planning on having a celebratory dinner post-ceremony, a small-scale caterer can make it exceptional. A food truck might be an idea you want to consider too- as it can create a fun experience with minimal additional people.
And for a final bonus fourth vendor:
#4 OFFICIANT
While a lot may change with how you pictured your wedding day to be, having a memorable ceremony- and officiant, to boot- can make the moment even more meaningful. If your family members don’t want to become ordained or you have something or someone special in mind for officiating, many officiants are now offering their services via Zoom, which helps with your guest count!
Aaand I’m fresh outta suggestions for today. Until next time, folks!
Word to the wise about officiants in New Jersey (as I just got off the phone with the office of vital statistics in the county we are getting married in): the officiant, the married couple, and the two witnesses must all reside within New Jersey at the time of the ceremony (they must attest to this) and must all be on the same videoconference stream (or with you in person). Additionally, some counties won’t allow licensing to take place via videoconference (the executive order is optional apparently), so we still have to go in person by appointment to the courthouse to apply – with our witness. Thankfully the 72 hour waiting period has been waived, so the minimum between licensing and ceremony could be as little as 15 minutes. Good luck!
Oh em gee, THANK YOU for this additional wisdom!!