Couples, especially those in a process of wedding planning, were one of the groups that was highly impacted by the current health concerns and restrictions. Brides, grooms, wedding planners, photographers, venues and others were forced to navigate this new and evolving reality. Immediate health concerns, gathering restrictions, venue and border closures, directly affected their wedding plans. As a result, over one million weddings across America (about 25 at the Pines Resort) were postponed to later this year and to 2021.
Even though states start to reopen and get back to business, we can easily guess that some things will never be the same. How this new virus will impact wedding business? In this article, we discussed possible long term changes to weddings with our long time Wedding Coordinator and Sales Manager, Jessica Trettin, as well as our newest Wedding Sales Manager, Taylor Westerman.
What was the initial reaction from our Couples?
Jessica: We are fortunate to work with some amazing couples! Originally, we had to answer a lot of calls, talk through many tears and address some anxious emails. The truth is, that most couples are adapting incredibly well and are taking it with grace and are in the best of spirits. They understand that the situation is unique and challenging for all of us and we can only take it one day at a the time.
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Taylor: As the new restrictions, guideliness and recommendations were arriving, we had to shuffle our event calendar. We are really impressed how everyone has done their best to adapt to our wedding reality in and post COVID.
What happened to those weddings planned for the second quarter of 2020?
Jessica: Most of our couples chose to postpone their special day into late summer, fall, and the end of the year. While some are hoping to keep it in the same format and size they originally planned – there are some brides that decided to downsize. There was a small percentage of weddings, who have postponed into 2021. We also had a handful of couples that have chosen to cancel, as the stress of the pandemic has been too much.
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Taylor: After the initial shock and navigating the unknown and evolving situation, it seems like now (early June), we are getting to the point, where the majority of the couples are just waiting for the green light to be able to host their day! All couples understand though that we may have to be creative when weddings do begin to reopen to ensure all of their guests and our staff are safe and healthy.
What was the most frequently asked question when this situation occurred?
Jessica: Almost each call contained “Will I be able to host my wedding as planned!?!” question. While I could only wish, I had a crystal ball to be able to tell them for certain, I didn’t know. Nobody knows the answer to this question. We wanted our couples to understand that we are in this together. You are not alone in your questions, concerns and anxieties. We will do everything we can to host your day though and we hope most of our couples know that!
What do you see happening with Weddings in the upcoming years?
Taylor: Wedding business will definitely see long term impact of the current health concerns. I believe that smaller, all-inclusive weddings, under 50 guests will become really popular in our immediate future. These type of micro weddings with built-in vendor teams will definitely help ease the planning stress for couples. It will also become a realistic option for couples, who had to cancel a planned wedding due to COVID and need a backup option.
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Jessica: Covid-19 will also impact the way we dine at weddings. We foresee food service transitioning to plated and unique individually packaged items. We guess, that couples will return to assigned seating, including at wedding ceremonies. In addition, dynamics at the wedding will change. Probably there will be less hugging and more table spacing. Weddings are definitely transitioning to a more intimate setting. In addition, for the next few months, we should probably expect guest favors going away or being replaced with more practical items, like hand sanitizers or custom face coverings. This is an exciting time for each couple to challenge tradition even more though and get creative!
What advice do you have for all the couples?
Jessica: Keep your head up and keep moving forward in your planning however you can at the moment. Be innovative! Think outside the box. Stay in touch with your vendor team. Ask for help in areas you are wanting or needing guidance in. Your day will still be unforgettable!
Weddings across the globe have been put on hold. While it certainly caused a lot of stress for the couples, most stayed in good spirits and took advantage of the extra time for planning. Now, ever since the social distancing is becoming a new norm, we anticipate a small revolution in the wedding business. Smaller, more intimate weddings will become a norm. Couples will become very creative as far as contactless dining service, livestreaming their event, promoting personal space and adjusting ongoing traditions to the new normal. It is important to be open to new ideas and solution. After all – all you really need is love! So let the shimmering waters and fragrant pines create memories of a lifetime.
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