Yes, most definitely. If you are newly engaged, then a big congratulations. Despite all the doom and gloom at the moment, couples are still falling in love and getting engaged.
The UK now has two vaccines in circulation, with a third arriving shortly, and with the promise and determination that all vulnerable groups will be vaccinated by the Spring. Slowly but surely the shutters will begin to open and the UK will start to move towards a normal life. This in turn is giving much needed confidence to both the wedding industry and engaged couples.
Last year saw huge numbers of weddings postponed or scaled back to micro-weddings, with larger celebrations planned for the lifting of restrictions. It is anticipated that from mid to late Spring weddings will resume, although at this stage the extent of what will be allowed is uncertain. By summer it is very much hoped that it will be business as usual, but more than likely with Covid controls in place, such as hand gels and all suppliers’ assurance that they are Covid compliant.
The second half of 2021 and 2022 is predicted to be extremely busy for weddings. This is not only because of all the postponements from 2020 but also from the most recent engagements. I would wholeheartedly encourage couples not to delay to start planning their weddings. Although we are in lockdown, venues and suppliers are all working as usual, although mostly from home.
Planning tips for Lockdown
- Firstly decide on the type of ceremony you would like. If you are opting for a Civil Ceremony then Civil Offices are operating and you should be able to secure a date. Notice of Marriage needs to be registered 29 days before the wedding so it is worth noting that down.
- All research for venues will have to take place on line at the moment, but some do offer virtual tours which can be helpful. If you think that you have found the venue of your dreams then you should be able to put a deposit down to secure it, with a tour available once lockdown is over.
- Once you have a venue and ceremony date secured you can move on to finding suppliers. Be prepared to make a shortlist as your first choice may not be available due to high demand.
- Brides, do make an online diary appointment at a Bridal Boutique for when lockdown is lifted.
- Always check before you engage any supplier that they have legal contracts that protect you and the themselves.
- Be flexible and be ready to adapt your plans.
- Ask for help if you are struggling.
- Look at my First Steps and Set-Up service which is designed to guide couples through the initial planning stages, and of course all conducted virtually at the moment.
Photography: Neli Prahova Photography
Photography: Suzy Elizabeth Photography
Jewellery: Rachel Sokhal Bridal
Stationery: Lynda Loves
Flowers: Bramble and Belle
Cake: Cherry Tree Cakerie