After lockdown ends on 2nd December, we will be returning and operating under a a new tier system, but are very pleased to hear that weddings will be able to return next month.
To help you understand how the Tiered approach affects your special day, we've captured some of the key pieces of information to help you plan.
Weddings and Civil Partnerships
This week, Boris Johnson confirmed that after lockdown, up to 15 people will be able to attend a wedding in all Tiers with some limitations depending on where your wedding is to be held. Unfortunately, any weddings due to be held in Tier 3 will not be allowed to have a reception following the ceremony, to help reduce the spread of infection. Full details about what this means for you and your area, can be found in the Government’s COVID-19 winter plan summary, but here is a quick summary to help you along your way.
Tier 1, Medium:
The ‘Medium’ tier is for areas where national restrictions continue to be in place. So, this is likely to affect the majority of the country. From the 2nd of December, the key rules include:
weddings can go ahead with restrictions to 15 attendees for ceremonies and receptions.
you must not socialise in groups larger than 6, indoors or outdoors unless from one household or ‘support bubble’
venues must be table service only. Last orders at 10pm, closed at 11pm.
places of worship remain open, subject to the rule of 6
overnight stays permitted with household, support bubble or up to 6 people.
If you reside in a ‘Medium’ tier, you must wear a face covering in those areas where this is mandated.
Tier 2, High:
The ‘High’ tier is for areas with a higher level of infections where some additional restrictions are in place. The restrictions listed below are in addition to restrictions in alert level medium and will be in place from 2nd December:
weddings can go ahead with restrictions to 15 attendees for ceremonies and receptions.
you must not socialise with anybody outside of your household or support bubble in any indoor setting, whether at home or in a public place
you must not socialise in a group of more than 6 outside, including in a garden or other spaces like beaches or parks
no alcohol to be served at hospitality venues unless with a substantial meal. Last orders at 10pm, closed at 11pm.
overnight stays are only permitted with your own household and support bubble
Places of worship remain open
If you reside in a ‘High’ tier, you must wear a face covering in those areas where this is mandated.
Tier 3, Very High:
The ‘Very High’ tier is for areas with a very high level of infections and where tighter restrictions are in place. The restrictions placed on areas with a very high level of infections can vary, and are based on discussions between central and local government. You should therefore check the specific rules in your area.
At a minimum, restrictions mean:
wedding ceremonies can go ahead with up to 15 people. Wedding receptions are not allowed.
you must not socialise with anybody you do not live with, or have formed a support bubble with, in any indoor setting or in any private garden or at most outdoor hospitality venues and ticketed events
you must not socialise in a group of more than 6 in an outdoor public space
all hospitality venues will close apart from for delivery and takeaway services.
indoor entertainment venues must close
no overnight stays are permitted unless for work, education or similar reasons. Accommodation services will close.
places of worship remain open, but household mixing is not permitted
From one Tier to another
If you are planning on going from one tier to another to attend a wedding, civil partnership or funeral you must check both your own and the venue’s location to understand how they will be affected. The GOV postcode tool has the most up to date information on the Tier for each area.
When you move from one area to another, you take the rules from that area with you and they will still apply to your social interactions. Venues and businesses within a particular area will also be bound by their local rules, so it's worth understanding the impact that these conditions may have on your day also.
Can I still plan my day?
You can absolutely still plan your wedding during this time. In fact, with all the uncertainty, many suppliers, celebrants and venues will be happy to hear from you and excited to help you plan your big day. With many businesses and activities being paused, now it the perfect time to sit down and start your planning process.
Source: gov.uk and www.guidesforbrides.co.uk