The last few years have undoubtedly been a whirlwind for most people. Though there’s been clashes and instances of social unrest across the world, the biggest impact came from the spread of COVID-19. The changes that went into effect across the planet warped the way that almost everyone lived their daily lives. Of all the changes to sweep the globe, some of the most complicated shifts affected weddings. Couples had to cancel, postpone, or jump through hoops to tie the knot while experts scrambled to combat COVID-19. Now it seems like things are returning to some semblance of normalcy, albeit with some new wedding norms moving forward.

The Size and Scope Under New Wedding Norms

Though the first few months of the global pandemic saw a majority of gatherings and celebrations canceled without notice, eventually couples were given the go-ahead on their weddings. However, there were some major restrictions in place in regard to how many people could get together at the same time and what types of venues these parties could take place within. Though there were severe guest-list limitations imposed for a long time, the reins have become looser in recent months. With global vaccination rates rising daily, weddings are now looking as packed and festive as ever. 

You also can feel free to host indoor events without fear of breaking local ordinances. Naturally, business owners have the right to impose whatever limitations they wish upon clients. Though mask orders are not as strict as they were, you need to adhere to whatever rules the venue has in relation to wearing face coverings. If this conflicts with your vision of your big day, then you will need to make other arrangements and find a different space.

The Entertainment

A good chunk of the world’s population spent the last few years in a state of isolation. Even those who went out to eat and drink as restaurants began to force their doors open early in the pandemic found that venturing into public was not as enticing or fun as it once was. As more people continue to feel comfortable attending large gatherings again, most are looking for ways to make up for all of the inaction that COVID-19 forced on their lives. This means that couples are really putting their money into entertainment options. 

Bands are once again becoming a hot alternative to DJs for couples. The electricity created by live music has a way of encouraging more people to get up and dance. While it might not be in your budget, you can always explore cost-effective solutions like asking a local cover band to take on the gig or seeing if you know any musicians who would be willing to work out a deal with you. Paying the band a decent fee and offering them free food and drinks is a great way to make the most of your budget.

New Destination Wedding Norms

Destination events are also coming back hard now that people are free to travel internationally again. While restrictions might change depending on shifts in the number of cases a particular country is seeing, couples have been booking and throwing events all over the world the way they once did. If you’ve dreamed of tying the knot on the sandy shores of a foreign locale, now is the perfect time.

While the mental and spiritual impact of COVID-19 will be felt for a long while in the population, it is comforting to see traditions like weddings returning to the way they once were. Make the most of this by getting the wheels turning and planning the wedding you have always envisioned.