New ‘norms' for nuptials

Amanda Griffihs looks at the ‘new normal’ for weddings and how couples can still plan their dream day with a little creative thinking

- Amanda Griffihs

It’s safe to say that 2020 has been a strange year – especially for the wedding industry and couples planning their special day. In the space of three months we went from holding celebrations that were as intimate or as grand as you wanted, to a complete ban. Three months later only small wedding ceremonies could take place – but with no reception. The latest government advice is that small wedding receptions for up to 30 guests will soon be able to take place, hopefully from August 15, but dates are being constantly reviewed.

So, what is the ‘new normal’ for weddings now, and what potentially might they look like in the future? Hannah Newman is the weddings manager at Mapperton House in Beaminster. “Since the pandemic hit in March, we’ve kept in touch with all our couples booked in for 2020 and discussed alternative plans, such as their best plan B dates,” she explains. Though most of Mapperton’s 2020 weddings have moved into 2021, Hannah is looking forward to the publication of a weddings ‘roadmap’ from the government and industry association ABWB (Association of British Wedding Businesses), which should give greater clarity on the future rules for ceremonies and receptions.

“We have precautions in place for our venue show rounds to ensure we operate as safely as possible and, as dates for 2021 are becoming booked up fast, we’re also offering a refundable deposit for couples who are not yet in a position to travel here to a venue show round so they can safely secure their date at Mapperton.”