Getting Married During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

Getting Married During a Pandemic

Getting married is arguably one of the most important life events that you will ever have to plan. Wedding planning can take months and even up to a year. From the pre-wedding celebrations to the reception, wedding planning can put a significant strain on soon-to-be newlyweds. Zola conducted a recent survey including 500 couples that recently planned a wedding. Of 500 couples surveyed, 96 percent of these couples admitted that the wedding planning process is stressful. With wedding planning already being a significant strain on couples, Covid-19 has not made wedding planning any easier. Planning a significant life event in the time of a pandemic can be uneasy, uncertain, and even scary. Those that have planned a wedding know that weddings are not just about the bride and groom’s pleasure, but for the enjoyment of their guests. Soon-to-be newlyweds are carefully navigating this uncertain time by planning new and innovative ways for them and their guests to make the most out of their wedding experiences.

Self-uniting Ceremonies

Some couples had to make the difficult decision to cancel having guests at their ceremony. These couples are performing ‘self-uniting’ ceremonies. In these ceremonies, couples are essentially getting married without having a wedding officiant present. Some of these couples wanted to make it official on their wedding day and hold off on a big celebration until Covid-19 cases started to settle and it is safe to meet in large numbers again.

Virtual Ceremonies

Some couples have decided to tie the knot virtually and have their wedding guests attend via zoom. These couples wanted to get married on their official wedding date and to be safe, they decided to gather virtually. One couple mentioned that their wedding guests were instructed to wear white (from the waist up at least!) Some couples even had a virtual rehearsal dinner to ensure that their guests had Zoom access during the ceremony.

Micro Weddings

Some couples have decided to still meet but in small numbers. Micro weddings are ceremonies that have 50 or fewer people in attendance. These weddings tend to be intimate and only include the bride and groom’s closest family and friends. Couples are reporting to be so satisfied with tiny weddings, that some individuals plan to carry on micro weddings even after the pandemic. With the uncertain nature surrounding Covid-19, micro weddings might be the way to go for couples that want to have an in-person wedding ceremony for the rest of 2020.

With the uncertain nature surrounding Covid-19, wedding planning can feel very overwhelming or discouraging. In trying times, flexibility and innovation can help soon-to-be newlyweds prepare for their wedding. Wedding planning in a pandemic might feel trivial, but couples can make it happen (and have a good time doing it!)  Whether couples decide to postpone their wedding, have a micro wedding, or prepare a virtual wedding for their guests, there are still many options to make the most out of their special day.

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Planning a Honeymoon During a Pandemic

Honeymoons are a staple of the wedding experience. Honeymoons are an important time to escape from the pent-up stress from wedding planning and spend intimate time together. There might not be another event in your life that dictates you and your spouse splurge on a vacation together. Some argue that honeymoons pose greater importance to newlyweds than the actual wedding. However, with the lingering uncertainty surrounding Covid-19, honeymoon planning can be an extremely daunting task. Some couples have found new ways to work around the uncertainty and have a good time, despite our world’s circumstances.

Honeyfund conducted a recent survey asking couples if their honeymoon plans changed during Covid-19.  A large number of couples reported changing their honeymoon location to a domestic rather than international location. Another large number of couples reported that they postponed their honeymoon for a later date. Only 7 percent of respondents reported completely following through with their original honeymoon plans. If you are currently planning a honeymoon, your honeymoon plans are likely to change. We have listed five tips to help you plan your honeymoon during Covid-19.

Tip 1: Pay attention to CDC and WHO guidelines

In this time, we do not know if Covid-19 cases will soon be mitigated or continue to spread. It is important to monitor CDC travel notices and WHO travel advice. These websites will help you make decisions on where to visit and where to avoid on your honeymoon.

Tip 2: Do not Book with an Online Travel Agency

Online travel agencies can be good for booking deals when planning for a vacation, however, in a pandemic, it is not the wisest decision. When booking with online travel agencies, you are not dealing with real humans. Not dealing with real humans means that when the time comes to reschedule your booking dates, it can be hard to get in touch with an agent. This can keep you from getting your money back.

Tip 3: Book with Travel Suppliers

Booking with reputable travel suppliers is very important for navigating uncertain times. These travel suppliers include hotels, airlines, transfer companies, etc.  Make sure to pay attention to their cancellation and postponement policies. Reputable travel suppliers can be extremely helpful and flexible during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Tip 4: Consider Cancel for Any Reason Insurance

This kind of insurance might be more expensive than your typical travel insurance, however, it is essential to purchasing if you plan to travel during a pandemic. Cancel for any reason insurance allows you to cancel your trip for any reason within 48 hours of your trip.

Tip 5: Work with a Travel Advisor

Working with a travel advisor can help mitigate some of the stress associated with honeymoon planning. Travel advisors can extensively help you plan your honeymoon. Travel advisors are skilled in each area that we discussed in this article. Travel advisors can be your advocate while planning your honeymoon. Travel advisors ensure that your financial investment in your honeymoon is protected.

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