Tiers of Joy for Weddings?
Small weddings (and receptions in Tier 1 and 2) are back on the agenda as the nation faces a tiered approach after the National Lockdown.
Alison and Sami made at St Katharine’s, London. Photography by: Natalia
We write this blog with heavy hearts and tired eyes- hasn’t it been such a crazy year? We’re sure everyone feels utterly jaded and exhausted from such a mad time in our lives- we all certainly do and we are sending SO much love to all of the couples out there who have had to put their dream day on hold, or change plans in the face of such unimaginable times.
We will all emerge next week on the 2nd December blinking into the sun and facing further restrictions in our new tiers, so we give the lowdown on what this all means for you and your wedding.
What does all of this mean for weddings?
Firstly, fear not- it is not ALL bad news, we promise you that!
Couples will be able to get married once again as the country returns to a tiered approach… Hallelujah to that!
Li-Ann and Jaron had a small wedding at Southwark Registry office- with family on Zoom of course!
Photography by: Paige
A glimmer of hope on the horizon
Those with weddings booked in December can breathe a massive sigh of relief, as weddings can take place again with some of the new rules introduced earlier in the year.
Tier 1 and 2
Breathe a sigh of relief because weddings and wedding receptions in Tier 1 and Tier 2 can now take place from December 2nd as National Lockdown comes to an end and localised tiers are put in place.
The rules
No more than 15 people can attend
Subject to social distancing and mask wearing
The number 15 is the maximum number for all attendees at the wedding including the couple and the guests
Anyone working or any supplier is NOT included as part of the legal limit!
Small sit down receptions are allowed
Reception venues must be table service only
Last orders at 10pm closed at 11pm
Alison and Sami made sure to include far away relatives in their small wedding at St Katharine’s, London.
Photography by: Natalia
Tier 3
Don’t fret just yet if your area has gone into Tier 3. The official wedding or civil partnership can take place but no receptions will be allowed.
According to official guidance:
“ At present it is strongly advised that marriage ceremonies, civil partnerships or alternative wedding ceremonies should only go ahead where they can be done in a Covid-19 secure environment.
“It is also advised that ceremonies are kept as short as possible.”
Such gatherings cannot by law take place in private dwellings unless they are urgent circumstances
Can guests travel to our wedding if they are in a different tier?
A question we have seen come up during these hard times is whether guests can travel between tiers. According to official advise, people can travel between tiers although it is not ‘advised’ and a matter of personal judgement. According to the latest up to date advise on the Government UK website on 23rd November 2020.
“Guests are permitted to attend wedding or civil partnership with no more than 15 people present.”
Beth and Josh at their socially distanced wedding at Manor by the Lake.
Photography by Tom
Stay positive
So much is changing so quickly and we are here for you with the latest information and advice for making your beautiful day amazing- even in these crazy times. We are hoping that by the Spring, so much will be better but in the meantime we are here to help you plan your day, however it may look.
Get in touch with us if you have any queries or questions and we can’t wait to shoot your perfect day soon!