When COVID hit, Wedding Wire turned to QE for expert advice in planning events leading up to a wedding.
So much of life has been put on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic. One major life moment that has been greatly impacted has been weddings and all activities surrounding it including bachelorette parties. Quintessential Events recently was interviewed by Wedding Wire on Your Ultimate Guide to Bachelorette Party Planning During COVID.
Here are our answers to Weddings Wire’s questions:
Can you briefly explain how the coronavirus pandemic has not only postponed weddings, but also the fun and celebratory events leading up to the wedding (i.e. bach parties and showers)?
The impact this pandemic has had on couples planning their wedding is profound. With the majority of weddings this spring and summer now being rescheduled for later in 2020 or 2021, many of the celebratory events surrounding the wedding are also moving. It is all a matter of when.
For those couples who were supposed to get married in the spring, many of these activities already occurred. The question for them becomes do I do a second round of parties closer the new wedding date?
For summer and fall brides, some are still having these activities, while others are in essence, picking up anything and everything wedding related and moving it. It is really a matter of personal preference for the couple and their family/friends.
What is your advice for brides/grooms/their friends who were planning their bachelorette who may be wondering the best plan of action moving forward?
While I know this is a time of life that should be all about you, you do have to stop and think of others during this time. Is what you are planning safe? Will you be exposed or expose others? Will you be okay having a scaled back version of what you were planning? Will you even be able to travel? Will people even come?
I recommend all couples and their friends to really think through any decision before making it. While it might not be ideal, waiting to have the bachelorette party you have been envisioning, is definitely something you should consider. We are all ready to get back to normal, but normal likely won’t be happening anytime soon. If you plan on going through with your party, make sure you are following the CDC guidelines and staying as safe as possible.
What are your thoughts about buying an engagement ring online given the circumstances?
I have always been a ‘you should see this in person’ type of gal, especially when it comes to rings. The engagement ring is such a major purchase, both emotionally and financially, that I feel it is important to see what you are buying first hand. Also, by purchasing in person, you are likely visiting a local business or spending your money in your community, which is beyond valued at this time.
Should we throw a virtual party?
Several of our brides have been surprised with virtual parties on the original dates for their showers, bachelorette parties and weddings. We love this! The day your wedding or celebratory events were supposed to happen are no doubt hard days for the couple, so any and all extra love that day is great. I would still recommend doing in-person celebrations once it is safe. If this time has taught us anything, it is how important celebrating life moments are with friends and family.
Do we host another “last bash” to honor the new wedding date?
If you have already had one, especially if people have traveled, then I would suggest doing something smaller the second time around. Maybe a nice dinner out. Or a slumber party. Some smaller way for you to all get together again and celebrate.
If your bachelorette got postponed, then yes, do it! And do it bigger than before!
Should we throw a bachelorette party after the wedding instead?
Definitely a great option for those brides who are doing smaller ceremonies right now and larger parties later. The usual order of events might be a bit different, but it doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate. What matters is getting together with your girls. If anything, everyone is going to want to celebrate more now than ever!
With states opening up, do you think a smaller-scale bach is a better idea? If so, what are your recommendations for ensuring everyone’s safe but having a ton of fun?
I go back to safety. Can you get together safely? Also, ask yourself, will you be able to follow the guidelines after having an adult beverage or two? If the answer is no, then I would postpone. Even though it might feel great to do it right now and finally see your people, it will feel even better celebrating when you know no one is at risk and you can go all out!