As Ireland gradually reopens from the Coronavirus lockdown, there is some good news on the horizon for Irish weddings this summer. The Taoiseach announced last week that indoor weddings of up to 50 people can go ahead from June 29th and up to 100 people from July 20th.
We know this guidance may come too late for many brides who have had to postpone their weddings until later in the year or in 2021 but we hope it can bring some relief to couples who have their hearts set on a wedding this summer. It is possible…
Dates For Irish Weddings This Summer
Weddings After June 29th
From June 29th, weddings in Ireland will be allowed to go ahead with up to 50 guests indoors and up to 200 guests outdoors. This restriction will be in place until the 20th July.
Weddings After July 20th
From July 20th, Irish weddings will be allowed to take place with up to 100 guests indoors and up to 500 guests outdoors, giving many brides a lot more flexibility to go ahead with their summer date.
A Note On Guest List Restrictions
Some wedding venues have suggested that the guest list number restrictions for the dates outlined above include everyone in your venue space, including you, the groom, your guests, your suppliers and the venue staff.
We would recommend having a discussion with your wedding venue to double-check how they are implementing the guidelines and how this might affect your guest list numbers.
Social Distancing For Your Wedding Day
Some of the most prominent guidelines for Irish wedding ceremonies and receptions this summer include:
- Social distancing is required for ceremony seating
- Social distancing is required for reception seating
- Social distancing is required on dance floors
- Canapes should be served in individual portions
- Drinks receptions are recommended to take place in a private area
- Doors should be automatic, propped open (where safe) or manually opened by staff
- Venues should provide hand sanitiser and appropriate signage with guidelines
- Salt, pepper and butter should be given at the reception on request
- No shared dishes or family-style food for wedding reception meals, e.g. communal vegetables, gravy boats or self-carved roast meats
- Drinks should be served by a member of staff and there should be no shared water jugs
Weddings Abroad
With many countries still under partial or full lockdowns, there is no clear guidance yet for destination weddings in 2020. Your planning will have to depend on your destination and what local rules your suppliers there will have to follow.
You can check the Irish government’s advice on travelling during the Coronavirus pandemic to see how you might be affected.
