2020 has definitely been a year for the books as we move towards a new normal and start to get back to things like school, work and of course – weddings! Unfortunately, just because restrictions are lifting does not mean that we can forget about COVID-19. If you are going forward with your wedding this year, there are some traditions that you may want to avoid – but don’t worry, we have alternatives.


Avoid: The Receiving Line

We’ve all been there, standing in a receiving line waiting to hug, kiss and shake hands with the happy couple. But, looking at this tradition through a COVID-19 lens, all we can see are germs! Nix the receiving line and have your guests head straight for cocktail hour.

Wedding Traditions to Avoid

Photo Courtesy of Carly Buma Photography

Instead: Visit each table during the reception to offer a heartfelt thanks for coming to your guests. Since your numbers are likely reduced, this shouldn’t take up too much time. Be sure to sanitize in between each table and wash your hands before you eat!


Avoid: The Dance Floor

This once sucks, but unfortunately, a socially distanced dance floor is the least fun dance floor there is. Instead of trying to force your guests into a macarena from six feet away, opt to not have a dance.

Wedding Traditions to Avoid

Photo Courtesy of Lori Waltenbury

Instead: Hire a live band and give your guests a concert, or, consider a movie under the stars or socially distant bonfires. The possibilities are endless, you just need to get a little creative.


Avoid: The Bouquet and Garter Toss

It’s probably not the best idea to have your single friends wrestle each other for the bouquet or garter – that’s a lot of touching that should probably be avoided.

Wedding Traditions to Avoid

Instead: Have a few couples pair off against each other to win the prizes, or, simply present the bouquet to someone special regardless of if they are on their way down the aisle.

While weddings currently look a little different that we are used to – it doesn’t mean that your day is any less special. It is possible to have fun while staying safe and at the end of the day, you get to marry your person, and that is really what matters.

On top of restructuring your wedding to avoid unsafe activities, also ensure that you are:

  • Practicing social distancing
  • Providing, or encouraging face masks when indoors
  • Providing ample hand sanitizer
  • Providing a clean and sanitized space for your guests