Saying that we live in a post-pandemic world is a bit of a hyperbole. Things are getting better, make no mistake, but while coronavirus cases have thankfully been on a downward trend for quite some time, new variants are still a concern. If you are tying the knot in the latter half of this year, consider some of these tips to keep everyone safe while still having fun.

Consider your guest list

Intimate weddings have definitely become the norm over the past year, and it is okay if they stay that way. Don’t be afraid to keep things small by limiting your guest list to close friends and family. This will not only make for a safer ceremony and reception, but a less expensive one.

Hold an outdoor wedding

Due to natural air filtration, hosting gatherings outdoors is a great way to make sure people stay safe. Outdoor weddings also provide for a lovely backdrop without the cost of setting up too much decor! The only downside is that you may need a back-up plan. Especially here in South Florida, rain is a fact of life, so it is good to be flexible.

Be conscious of seating

Obviously weddings are an event made for mingling, but social distancing gets a little dicey when it comes it seating. When possible, keep people together who you know have been regularly seeing one another. Not only will it make for a comfortable table setting, but these guests are safe to mingle.

Don’t be afraid to put in place a mask mandate

Given that masks are still encouraged for larger gatherings, it won’t seem unreasonable to you guests that you request them to wear masks– especially if you wedding is indoors. After a year of wearing them, you guests should be just fine with wearing a mask for a few hours.

Suggest that your guests get vaccinated

Though this rule is harder to enforce, it is the best way to keep everyone as safe as possible. Ask your guests to get vaccinated if possible. It might be awkward, but an entirely vaccinated guest list will other restrictions being looser, which will make everything else feel more natural and normal.