You had begun to plan the most magnificent day of your life;

you were designing your son or daughter’s dream day;

or you were just about to celebrate with all of your friends and family when…

life changed as we know it.

There’s no getting around it – what we’ve experienced in the last few months is nothing less than surreal.  Within days, venues closed, vendors were furloughed, and in-person planning and celebrating came to a screeching halt.

I was just as bewildered as you may have been as life turned upside down.  

But now, our world is re-opening to a new normal and the wedding and event industry is no exception.  

With so many questions from brides and grooms, parents, and guests, I am sharing insights into what I’m seeing behind the scenes in the industry, what weddings and events may look like in the near future, and ideas for navigating planning a special day amidst a pandemic.

Should I still plan my wedding or event right now?

Yes, it is still okay to be planning!  

Although plans may look different, working with a planner such as myself, can help with organizing new dates, venues, vendors, and an overall layout of the day.  Guest lists are changing and contracts may look different now, so having a professional to guide you through this time can be of the utmost value.

You can also continue planning – even if you want to wait until things are settled down a bit.  We don’t know when that will be or if things will ever look like they once did, but planning can still go on for a later date down the road.

Try not to get discouraged (I know, easier said than done), but our industry is here to help you – lean on us to answer your questions, to be creative, and to turn this unexpected issue into something that is still special – even if it is different than what you originally envisioned.  

Be open to new ideas and you may be surprised at how the change in perspective can bring about things you had never considered before (how about a smaller guest count farm-to-table reception at long tables in a vineyard-type setting with the chef preparing your food beside you and the sommelier pouring exquisite wines or an intimate evening with a renowned jazz band accompanied by cordials and cigar rolling).

Are weddings happening this summer?

Actually, yes!  Our team is planning a few of them.  

We have seen current weddings scheduled for this summer displaced a few times due to various circumstances, one big issue being the virus, however, we do have smaller, more intimate weddings taking place.  The parties have a relaxed feel to them and are consisting of a limited number of guests. 

Are weddings being booked right now at venues?  

Yes, we are noticing that venues are booking.  Most of the clients we are talking to seem to be focusing on or after the holidays and into next year.

Are you noticing any new or specific contract clause that pertains to the virus?

I see that most vendors have a force majeure clause or a new COVID-19 clause, which I even recently added.  It’s crucial to look over these clauses (they are there to protect the vendor and many times, you as well) and understand them fully before signing.

What are you hearing from hotels – are they open now for guests?

Most hotels are in the process of reopening, but in small steps.  Theme parks are scheduling their openings over the next month or so and pool areas are even opening!

Are guests wearing face masks or are they required to?

I don’t know yet; it’s a sensitive subject.  Some brides would be fine if it were required while others would delay the wedding if it were.  This is a personal decision that we talk over with every client as well as with each venue and vendor. Ensure you know what your venue requests well-before your special day.

What’s the scoop from vendors – are they offering specials right now and are they still booking?

For many, business doesn’t look the same as it did six months ago.  Many vendors and venues are offering special options and if you are seriously considering planning a wedding or event, it may be a good time to book.

What can we expect moving forward?  What are new trends at the moment?

First and foremost, gone are the days of the self-serve buffet.  

Currently, I’m seeing more plated dinners and composed plate presentations at stations (which are actually very beautiful!).  Venues are spacing tables further apart and the staff are now wearing masks and gloves.

Cleanliness is of top priority, so we love adding warm or cool oshi bori towels scented with essential oils of lavender, lemon balm, or sandalwood alongside a hand sanitizer station – yes, it’s these little things that soften the changes!

As planning continues, clients are adapting to the new standards and keeping guest lists more intimate.  Booking extra amounts of space (think a larger ballroom or wedding ceremony location) with plenty of space between chairs as well as forgoing a receiving line and large guest counts are all first steps in planning right now.  We can help you with the rest!

Have you been planning a wedding or event through the pandemic? 

Are you frustrated, worried, and disappointed?

If so, I understand.  This isn’t what any of us planned and we are all acclimating to this new way of life together.

However, as I continue planning with clients and talk to newly engaged couples, I am noticing my creativity and problem solving skills come into full bloom.  This is what I thrive on and I would be honored to work with you in creating a dream day – even during a pandemic.

If you are planning a wedding or event in the Orlando or Central Florida area, please call me at (407) 365-4729 or email me at michele@michelebutlerevents.com.

Let’s get our creativity to flourish as we plan the day you’ve always wanted…yes, even right now.