What will weddings look like during/after Covid?

I think another thing to think about is the maximum capacity of people you can even have IF things are returned to some better form of normalcy. similar to how initially we were only allowed gatherings of up to 100 people, etc. that might be the same idea for when the bans to things start getting lifted - what if it gets lifted with a cap, etc.

As to holding hands during dancing, you could always go back to the old Jewish system in which men and women had to hold onto opposite ends of a handkerchief because they weren't allowed to touch.

But I agree, until we have an effective vaccine, it's going to be impossible to have anything that resembles the weddings we're used to.

Hi Morgan,

You're asking some very insightful questions about the impact of this global pandemic on weddings and events in general. I think--for now at least--we don't really know what the world looks like on the other side of COVID-19 because the crisis is ongoing. We're trying to survive by adjusting our habits (e.g., picking up groceries every 7-10 days or ordering takeout instead of eating out) and social distancing, etc. It's unclear how long these changes will be necessary. In the aftermath of the Coronavirus, I expect there will be differences in how we all interact with each other. How could there not be?

In short, I think you're on the right track with your questions. My (non-expert) suggestions are in line with yours:

- Seating guests farther apart - at harvest tables (rectangular banquet tables), standard spacing is 18"-24" between guests, so maybe move to 36" (this means 4 or 5 people at a 6' banquet instead of 6-8)

- Serving plated appetizers and/or entrees, possibly on/in single-use compostable plates and bowls, instead of stationed/buffet options and passing on trays (which people would touch)

- Using a handkerchief in place of holding hands for the horah, per 2d bride's suggestion

- Making trash and/or compost receptacles more prominent - waste bins are not pretty, but the risk of a gloved staff member picking up a discarded napkin or tissue and then contaminating food outweighs

- Offering hand sanitizer dispensers throughout the venue

- Discouraging hand-shaking and hugging

- Furnishing catering staff with gloves at minimum

I also wonder about a guest book. You probably wouldn't want everyone touching the same pen(s) and book. Is the alternative something digital? After a quick Google search ("digital guestbook"), I can confirm they do exist.

I'm wishing you the best of luck!

p.s. - I've linked a July Weddings Discussion Board for you to chat with other couples who are planning for their weddings in 3 months.