The wedding industry, like so many others, has had to adapt rapidly in the wake of a socially-distanced world. Couples and suppliers alike are rethinking the entire concept of what a wedding day should look like—from how many guests attend to where and how the event takes place.
With public health and safety at the forefront, weddings are becoming more intimate, creative, and flexible than ever before. In this post, we’ll explore what these changes look like and how they’re shaping the future of saying “I do.”
Outdoor Venues
As evidence continues to show that outdoor gatherings are safer than indoor ones, many couples are taking their ceremonies into the open air. Gardens, fields, and other outside spaces allow for better airflow and easier distancing. It’s not just about safety—it’s also about creating a beautiful, relaxed environment where guests can feel comfortable. Outdoor weddings may well become the new norm for the foreseeable future.
Choose large, open spaces that allow seating to be spaced out while still feeling intimate.
Use decorative markers like rugs, lanterns, or floral arrangements to indicate safe distances.
Offer covered options such as marquees or tents in case of bad weather, without enclosing the area too tightly.
Embrace natural backdrops to reduce the need for heavy décor and maximise outdoor appeal.
Fewer Guests
Guest lists are expected to shrink dramatically to reduce health risks and comply with restrictions. Intimate ceremonies with close family and friends are replacing the once-standard large weddings. While this shift may feel limiting at first, it allows for more meaningful moments and reduced stress. Smaller guest counts can also open the door to greater budget flexibility and creative planning.
Keep the invite list limited to essential people—focus on those closest to you emotionally, not just socially.
Consider holding multiple micro-events or staggered celebrations to include more people safely.
Use technology like livestreaming to involve guests who can’t attend in person.
Be clear with communication—explain the limitations and reasons behind the reduced numbers.
Decline of the Destination Wedding
Quarantine rules and international travel restrictions have made destination weddings increasingly impractical. Couples are now rethinking whether flying abroad for their big day is worth the logistical and financial strain. This has led to a rise in “UK-based wedding weekends,” where local venues are transformed into multi-day celebrations. These events can offer many of the same benefits of a destination wedding—just closer to home.
Look for rural or coastal UK venues that offer accommodation and space for multi-day celebrations.
Replicate the ‘getaway’ feel with themed décor, signature cocktails, and weekend-long itineraries.
Save on travel costs and invest in higher-quality food, entertainment, or styling.
Reduce risk and stress by avoiding complicated travel arrangements and border restrictions.
No Hugs and Kisses for the Happy Couple
Physical affection, long a staple of wedding celebrations, may need to take a backseat in a socially-distanced world. Hugs, kisses, and handshakes can carry risk—even when meant with the best intentions. Couples might need to set new expectations for their guests in order to protect themselves and others. That doesn’t mean the celebration loses its joy—it just changes how that joy is expressed.
Include signage reminding guests to maintain safe distances throughout the venue.
Create a “no-contact greeting” station with fun suggestions like elbow bumps or waves.
Position chairs or lounge areas to promote space between households or bubbles.
Use photography and video to capture and share love in new, creative, non-physical ways.
A Focus on Hygiene
Cleanliness has become a central concern for all events, and weddings are no exception. Expect to see everything from personalised hand sanitiser bottles to face masks colour-matched to bridal party outfits. Couples are taking hygiene into their own hands to help guests feel safe and comfortable. This isn’t just a precaution—it’s a new element of wedding planning.
Provide hand sanitiser at entry points, tables, and high-traffic areas throughout the venue.
Offer custom face masks that match the wedding’s colour scheme or include personal touches.
Ensure catering staff wear gloves and masks, and opt for plated meals instead of buffets.
Assign someone to monitor cleanliness throughout the day, such as refreshing sanitiser stations.
Daytime Entertainment
With evening gatherings restricted in many locations, couples are shifting focus to daytime festivities. The upside? More natural light, relaxed atmospheres, and new ways to celebrate. Roaming musicians, garden games, and al fresco dining are stepping in where dance floors once dominated. The change opens up opportunities for truly unique experiences.
Plan a longer daytime reception with lawn games, live acoustic sets, or outdoor performances.
Replace the evening disco with live musicians who can entertain in open-air settings.
Consider picnic-style dining or food trucks for a more casual and hygienic meal option.
Organise outdoor photo ops or walk-through installations for guests to enjoy safely.
A Different Style of Wedding Photography
Social distancing also affects how wedding memories are captured. Traditional large group shots may no longer be practical, and photographers must work creatively within the limits. Candid, documentary-style photos that capture real moments are becoming more popular. These changes don’t just reflect the times—they also produce more intimate, authentic images.
Focus on household-based group shots to maintain distance and safety protocols.
Capture natural, candid moments rather than posed line-ups or large arrangements.
Use longer lenses to photograph guests from a distance without sacrificing quality.
Tell the story of the day through personal details, interactions, and atmosphere shots.
Conclusion
Weddings in a socially-distanced world may look and feel different, but that doesn’t mean they’re any less special. In fact, many couples are finding that these changes encourage deeper connections, more thoughtful planning, and less pressure to meet outdated expectations. Whether it’s swapping a packed venue for a peaceful garden or exchanging hugs for heartfelt waves, love still finds its way to the centre of it all. With a little creativity and a lot of heart, socially-distanced weddings can be just as joyful, memorable, and meaningful as ever.
