Although the pandemic has halted many nuptials, some couples are now able to throw small weddings. Besides finding a wedding dress, choosing a venue and booking a wedding photographer, couples planning their elopement or wedding for summer 2021 should still consider ways to protect those in attendance. The following guide provides some safety tips for your special event.

How Can You Plan a Safe Elopement or Wedding?

1. Downsize the Guest List 

The number of guests you can safely invite depends on local regulations. Generally, outdoor spaces can accommodate more people than indoor venues. However, it’s still best to limit the number of attendees and opt for a safe, intimate event. Consider just inviting immediate family members and close friends. 

2. Facilitate Social Distancing 

Even with a limited guest list, you’ll need to promote social distancing to keep those in attendance safe. Place chairs and reception tables six feet apart or place people in household groups. For example, your parents may sit together, while your best friend and their partner may sit at another table two yards away. 

3. Consider an Outdoor Event 

Many brides dream of a wedding in the park or a public garden. However, if you were unsure about an indoor or outdoor ceremony, the pandemic is one more reason to choose the latter. Social distancing is more manageable outside with ample airflow. Finding an outdoor venue in NYC may seem challenging, but here are some suggestions: consider a wedding in Central Park or Prospect Park with a reception at the Loeb Boathouse, or the Prospect Park Boathouse; check out the gardens of Wave Hill; consider the the stunning River Cafe in Brooklyn; or a lush outdoor ceremony at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden with a reception in the Palm House.

4. Set a Time Limit

From pre-ceremony wedding photography to the post-nuptial reception, your wedding day could last for several hours. However, because the risk of virus transmission increases the longer a person is exposed, it’s best to keep it short. Consider cutting the ceremony down to 20 minutes, followed by a two-hour reception. 

If you need last-minute wedding photography for your engagement or upcoming nuptials, turn to Karen Wise Photography in New York City. Named one of the top 10 wedding photographers globally by American Photo Magazine, Wise is an industry veteran with over 15 years of experience. Based in Brooklyn, NY, this wedding and engagement photographer combines creativity and expertise to produce intimate images you’ll treasure forever. Call (917) 539-9908 to schedule an engagement session, or visit her website to view her portfolio.