Weddings look a lot different in 2020 than they did even just a year ago. The COVID19 pandemic has forced couples as well as industry professionals to reevaluate and adapt to the new standards and procedures brought on by the coronavirus. However, that has not stopped couples from starting their Happy Ever After. How do post-COVID19 weddings look compared to ceremonies of the past? Keep reading to find out.
Microweddings
A microwedding is an intimate ceremony that consists primarily of immediate family and close friends. This new style of wedding gained traction in 2020 as more and more couples adjusted their guest-list to meet local and state health official recommendations to control the spread of COVID19. Microweddings were a feasible and realistic option for couples who did not want to postpone their nuptials, but still wanted to be with loved ones. Often this style of wedding is accompanied with a virtual element so long-distance relatives and friends could still participate and celebrate with the happy couple!
Besides a reduced guest count, microweddings follow all the traditions of a wedding ceremony designed by the couple. Often times, microweddings can feel even more special to all involved given the intimate ambiance.
Sequel Wedding
A sequel wedding is another style of ceremony that gained traction during the COVID19 pandemic. Exactly what it sounds like, a sequel wedding is when a couple has more than one ceremony. Typically, the first is small and resembles a microwedding or even an elopement. This is then followed by a larger-scale second ceremony at a later date, which resembles a more traditional wedding and reception. By delaying the larger celebration, couples can still marry while allowing their guests time to feel comfortable and safe attending a large gathering. Sequel weddings also open the door for couples who want to bring their original vision to life, but may need to wait until a later date.
Shift Wedding
Shift weddings are a creative blend of microweddings and sequel weddings. The name really explains it all. A shift wedding is a celebration with multiple smaller, more intimate groups that stagger throughout the day to meet social distancing and CDC health guidelines. One group of guests, typically family and the bridal party, would experience the ceremony and then another group may join for a small cocktail party. Perhaps later in the day other groups would filter in and out for a celebratory reception. Similar to the microwedding, a virtual element may be incorporated so guests can participate throughout all the day’s events, even though they may only be present in-person for a portion of it. This has become a great option for couples who want to celebrate without missing out on sharing the experience with all of their original guests.
Whether it’s an intimate microwedding in the lush Hanna Garden or an elaborate shift reception in the Crawford Rotunda, the seven acre campus of the Cleveland History Center in University Circle provides an elegant backdrop for any style of wedding as guests enjoy stunning decor, classic architecture, and historic collections from cars to clothes.
Nestled near the scenic Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Hale Farm & Village is another perfect location for a romantic and unique wedding ceremony. Surround your guests in the picturesque setting of our 90-acre grounds. The charming historic buildings dating from the mid-19th century are clustered around a pristine village green. Hold your historic moment in the 1850 Greek Revival Meetinghouse or in the newly renovated Gatehouse.
For more information on how you can book your 2020 ceremony, however that may look, visit (rentals page). You can also fill out a rental inquiry form by CLICKING HERE.
