Weddings are back on the menu, so start planning yours now!
It seems weddings are starting up again, with online marketplace Oneflare reporting a huge spike in demand for celebrants, florists, hair and make-up artists and wedding photographers.
“Since 6 April when lockdown began and 1 June when restrictions were eased, we have seen a whopping 1,800 per cent increase in job posts for wedding hair stylists, a 280 per cent increase in requests for photographers and an 80 per cent increase in demand for celebrants,” said Mr Billy Tucker, CEO Oneflare.
For any bride-to-be wondering how to plan their wedding post lockdown, Kerstyn Walsh wedding planner and owner at Hire A Bridesmaid offers the following tips:
1. Guest guidelines – be really clear what you are comfortable/not comfortable with regards to meeting/greeting and congratulating and brief your MC to make it clear for guests on the day, eg: ‘The couple are more than happy for you to greet them with a congratulatory cuddle but please keep in mind some guests may prefer to keep their distance.”
2. Budget-wise – don’t be afraid to negotiate with suppliers to get the best deals. If they want your business, they will often show some flexibility. The worst they can say is ‘no’ and you’re free to then find another supplier within your budget. Make sure you do your research though, as in all business, you get what you pay for so be mindful of just going for the ‘cheapest option’. Online sites such as Oneflare are a great way to shop around for the service and price that suits you. Be sure you set out your budget from day one of planning your wedding and include absolutely everything (ring, dress, honeymoon etc.) so you can keep an eye on where your dollars are going.
3. Tech-up – if you have to reduce numbers because of budget or social distancing then check with the venue as you can opt to live-stream your video for non-attendees. This is particularly useful for overseas guests who are unable to attend or those you have had to ‘uninvite’ because of the requirement to reduce numbers.
4. Politely Uninvite – don’t panic about asking people not to come – people understand that venues can’t accommodate for the same number of guests anymore.
5. Plan ahead – add an additional line to your invitation that says, ‘There will be no hard feelings if you become unwell before the wedding and we kindly request your non-attendance for the health and safety of others.”
And finally, remember that even though your wedding may be different than you planned, we will always celebrate love. Hosting a wedding is a beautiful way to bring some light and hope to your family and friends who may now want something to look forward to.
About Hire A Bridesmaid
From engagement through to the big day itself, Hire A Bridesmaid takes the stress out of wedding planning. Kerstyn and her experienced team create weddings tailored to every couples’ unique requirements and use their extensive industry knowledge to create the perfect wedding day.
About Oneflare
From wedding planners, photographers, celebrants and entertainers, Oneflare will connect you with the right business to help you get your wedding sorted. For further information visit: www.oneflare.com.au.
