COVID has stopped large get-togethers, but it hasn’t stopped LOVE. While many couples have chosen to postpone their nuptials, some are still trying to tie the knot! We’re here to tell you that it’s totally possible to have a wedding during COVID. As the pandemic continues, we’ve learned firsthand how costly it can be to stay safe. This guide will help you keep your wedding affordable without compromising safety.
Many brides-to-be are trading traditional big wedding vibes for small, intimate ceremonies at an affordable wedding venue. During a global pandemic, these microweddings are all the rage, and people are surprisingly OK with it. As smaller ceremonies continue to increase in popularity, venues and vendors are becoming even more budget-friendly. Here are some of our favorite COVID wedding ideas that are affordable and social-distance friendly.
Essense of Australia D2840/D2894, Photo: Adrianna Pearcy, Brides: Mehg & Kate
1. HAVE A MICRO WEDDING
So, what exactly is a micro wedding? It is an intimate affair, usually no more than 50 guests. You and your partner can enjoy a private, off-the-record ceremony! This is a perfect option to adhere to COVID safety guidelines and celebrate with your nearest and dearest. With a lower guest count, it’s much easier to maintain safe social distancing and provide personalized wedding guest masks and sanitizer gift bags for extra precautions. How much money can you save with a micro wedding? A micro wedding can cost anywhere between $1,600 with 15 guests to $10,000 for a full ceremony and reception with around 50 guests.
Whether you’re dreaming of a private, romantic retreat, or you just want to spend some quality time with your closest family and friends at home, a microwedding is a great option for those of you that want to conserve your dollars and practice safe social-distancing.
Essense of Australia D3151, Photo: Megan Claire, Bride: Bethany
2. CELEBRATE AT HOME
We’re obsessed with backyard weddings! Whether it’s your own backyard, or one of your loved one’s, the freedom is endless. You can set your own date, and there is plenty of space in your budget to book that live band you love or cater your favorite high-end restaurant. It’s also a great option during the pandemic with low travel risks. Or, if you want to keep it simple, enjoy yourselves with a guest potluck and your favorite bottled wine. By choosing to get married at home, you can provide an extremely special experience for your loved ones that you will be able to treasure for a long time.
Stella York 6814, Photo: Grace Kalil
3. MINIMIZE YOUR GUEST LIST
Cutting your guest list might seem like a risky business, but the most important thing is to be surrounded by your closest friends and family without compromising your health and safety. While some couples choose to invite a lot of guests and plus-ones, the pandemic has truly transformed the large-party mentality into a coveted and intimate gathering. Smaller more private venues with fewer attendees allow you to splurge on special activities, decor, or catering at a reasonable price. It also gives you enough time to truly enjoy the company of your loved ones without all the distractions of a huge get together.
Stella York 7012, Photo: Rachel Jane Wise, Bride: Rebekah
4. GO VIRTUAL WITH A MINIMONY
During COVID, many couples have opted for minimonies. What’s a minimony? Similar to a microwedding, a minimony is a mini ceremony held with your loved ones or simply a moment of commitment shared between you and your partner. With the rising uncertainty of the pandemic, this special ceremony is perfect for a handful of your favorites to enjoy a safe, socially-distanced get together. This exclusive event for you and your chosen guests can be shared virtually on Zoom, too. This option is intended to be enjoyed primarily between the couple and gives more than enough time to budget for that traditional wedding extravaganza at a later date.
Martina Liana 1004, Photo by Fotomagoria, Bride: Rita
5. BOOK DURING OFF-SEASON
Microweddings and minimonies open up a grand array of possibilities for your wedding venue. Catering to fewer guests means that the destination venue you had your eye on isn’t entirely out of budget. Avoid the big crowds and save huge dollars by booking off-season and driving up to that secluded mountain retreat or private beach. Another pro? Enjoy a mini-honeymoon getaway after your nuptials! Less attendees also saves room to treat your special crew to an all-expenses paid experience. For extra savings, you can even book on a Friday or Sunday.
All Who Wander Jett gown, Photo: Ashlee Crowden, Bride: Taylor
6. SAY “YES” TO AN AFFORDABLE WEDDING DRESS
Wedding attire can be modern, fashionable, and flattering at any bride’s budget. If you’re looking for that one-of-a-kind designer wedding dress with a reasonable price tag, check out our affordable dresses on our website. Are you ready to make your bridal vision come to life without breaking the bank? Let’s find an affordable wedding dress! Find a retailer near you to try on all of our stunning budget-friendly designer wedding dresses.