The task of planning a wedding is often met with stress, regardless of the situation. However, when the big day coincides with a global pandemic, the complexity of preparations can be overwhelming. With multiple logistical and practical considerations to navigate, it’s natural to feel uncertain about what lies ahead.
The celebration of love had to adjust…
The wedding industry has not been spared from the economic woes brought on by the global pandemic. Like many other sectors that rely heavily on group gatherings, it has been particularly affected. The World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued guidelines recommending the limitation of gatherings to no more than 10 people, leading many couples to cancel or reschedule their special day.
In a remarkable display of resilience, some have opted to hold virtual weddings – a temporary solution that will not be sufficient in the long run. As we look ahead, it is crucial to consider how the wedding industry and events at large will adapt to the new reality posed by COVID-19.
A word from the experts…
As the pandemic’s impact on the wedding industry becomes increasingly apparent, many professionals in the field are being forced to adapt to a constantly changing landscape. With uncertainty reigning supreme, they’re having to think creatively about how to navigate these uncharted waters and find ways to make the best of a difficult situation.
The Expert…
With over a decade of experience in planning extraordinary events across California and beyond, Brooke Avishay, owner and founder of Orange Blossom Special Events, has witnessed her fair share of disruptions. From last-minute break-ups upending year-long plans to fire seasons destroying venues mere days before the big day, she thought she had seen it all.
As an expert wedding planner in Los Angeles who’s worked on everything from intimate backyard gatherings to celebrity weddings covered by People Magazine, Brooke had a reputation for being prepared for anything. But nothing could have prepared her for the unprecedented challenge posed by the novel coronavirus pandemic.
Keeping guests safe and numbers low…
As the wedding industry navigates the aftermath of the pandemic, it’s clear that several changes are on the horizon. One significant shift Brooke anticipates is a heightened focus on health and safety precautions. ‘Once we return to in-person events, I expect couples will prioritize measures to ensure everyone’s well-being,’ she notes. This might manifest in the form of masks becoming a fashion statement, similar to fascinators, and more intimate guest lists with fewer attendees.
The latter will require couples to make tough decisions about who to include and who to leave out, especially when it comes to higher-risk guests like the elderly or those with pre-existing conditions.
Design changes…
Weddings rely on a harmonious convergence of various industries and businesses to bring a couple’s vision to life. The recent disruptions in these sectors may lead to innovative design adaptations, particularly in the floral market. Last year, we observed a natural shift towards dried flowers as decor and incorporating flowers into desserts. However, this trend appears poised to endure due to supply chain disruptions for fresh flowers.
Megan McCarter, a seasoned florist from Los Angeles-based The Little Branch, anticipates a lasting impact on flower availability.
While these disruptions may initially seem challenging, they could ultimately catalyze creativity. Jamie Giancola, our in-house event designer, views the scarcity of resources as an opportunity to think outside the box and craft one-of-a-kind designs that push the boundaries of what’s possible.
As a result, couples faced with limitations on flower choices and rentals may be pleasantly surprised by the unique solutions that arise from these challenges.
Locally sourced…
As Brooke’s experiences in the USA have shown her, the trend of sourcing locally is poised for significant growth. This phenomenon is not unique to the wedding industry, as the world has seen a remarkable surge in support for local initiatives. In Los Angeles, for instance, many florists are now prioritizing local growers, but this shift won’t be limited to just flowers.
The environmental aspect is also gaining recognition, with Brooke hoping that couples will become more mindful of their event’s ecological footprint. She envisions clients collaborating on creative ways to reduce costs and resources while still achieving a beautiful and meaningful celebration. In the midst of global uncertainty, some couples are using this time to reevaluate their priorities, focusing on what truly matters – family, connection, and creating lasting memories.
As one couple put it, ‘It’s almost tasteless to throw an extravagant wedding in 2020, considering the devastation many families are facing. They want to scale down, bring back the focus on spending quality time with loved ones, and enjoy comfort food, good wine, great music, and meaningful moments with their nearest and dearest.’
Love will conquer…
As Brooke reflects on the tumultuous times of wedding planning, she emphasizes the importance of fostering a sense of community and love among loved ones. She hopes that couples will find solace in each other’s support during the chaotic process, and that parents will be more understanding of their children’s unique vision for their special day.
Moreover, Brooke believes that showing gratitude towards rental staff, service providers, and kitchen teams can go a long way in making a memorable wedding experience. Ultimately, she advocates for a renewed sense of joy and compassion among all wedding vendors, recognizing the industry’s resilience lies in its ability to bring people together through love and shared experiences.
The Celebration…
As we gather with our closest family and friends for milestone moments like birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, and graduations, the atmosphere is inevitably electric. The air is filled with an uncontainable enthusiasm, as we revel in the joy and excitement of sharing these special times together. Amidst the celebrations, we forge lasting memories and strengthen bonds, making each occasion a treasured experience.
The Countdown Is On…
Brooke is among many in the industry eagerly anticipating the first wedding of the season. The excitement stems from being part of such a pivotal moment – helping a bride into her dress and serving as the last point of connection before she walks down the aisle. It’s an electric atmosphere, made even more special by guiding her team and vendors through this significant event.
Despite the uncertainty that has defined recent times, Brooke finds solace in the wisdom that positivity doesn’t require constant happiness, but rather an awareness that better days are on the horizon.
For those planning their wedding during these unprecedented times, Brooke offers a helping hand with our comprehensive guide.