Corona Virus has been all over the news and affecting all industries, including weddings. How does it affect your wedding and what should you do now? Here are some tips:

Continue to plan. We are checking in with all of our booked wedding professionals to ensure they have a back up plan in case they (or their staff) are unable to work the event. We are reviewing contracts, educating ourselves on rescheduling clauses, and then continuing on with business as usual. Keep yourself educated, stay informed and plan for what we know now--no need to panic!
Think about a loose back up plan. We always have contingency plans hashed out in advance of an event (usually weather related..not for a global pandemic!), but in this case it may be worth putting a future date on hold with your venue or some of your key wedding professionals until there is more clarity.
Your wedding dress. Some designers are having delays, with production in China halted. However, most of the bridal shops I’ve spoken with in the Pacific Northwest haven’t had any issues and don’t foresee many. That being said, none of us know what will happen so if you are super concerned, think about purchasing a discontinued/off-the-rack gown just in case.
As you are nearing your date, discuss with your vendors additional safety protocols and sanitation procedures. Things like having extra hand sanitizers conveniently placed at the event, upgrading soap, serving a plated meal rather than buffet or family style, ensuring ALL staff is vetted and free of illness and the like will put you more at ease.
Get event insurance, or double check/upgrade your policy. Some of our clients will purchase event insurance via their homeowners insurance providers, and others will purchase a separate policy through an event specific provider (like WedSafe, Travelers or WedSure). Regardless of Coronavirus, we highly suggest purchasing a policy for your event as it can protect you from circumstances beyond your control!
Be sure and talk with a specialist to understand what is or is not included. Some wedding insurance policies will cover virus related issues ONLY if the venue cancels the event! If the couple cancels just to be cautious, it will not cover.
Inform your guests. Send printed cards, an email blast or even texts if the date is imminent. Absolutely update your website and encourage your guests to purchase travel insurance or stay home if there is any inkling of illness! My hunch is that guest counts will be lower than expected this wedding season, especially within the older age groups. You can always live-stream for those that are unable to attend!

Most of all, try to stay calm and keep yourself informed. While postponing or rescheduling your wedding might be necessary for some (likely a minority) because of COVID-19, my (uneducated) prediction is that for most the show will go on. with extra precautionary measures. At Bridal Bliss, we are closely monitoring the US Department of State for travel restrictions and adhering to guidelines set by World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control.

Take a peek below of our recent segment on KPTV’s More Good Day Oregon with more!

COVID-19 and your wedding