Brides Slam New Wedding Rules As ‘Absolute Rubbish’

There are mixed emotions among the wedding community after prime minister Boris Johnson confirmed a four-week delay to the ending of lockdown restrictions on Monday night.

The government has made an exception for nuptials, as the cap of 30 guests is removed, but social distancing and masks remain.

Updated guidance dropped overnight and while some couples have welcomed the news, those hoping for a 'normal' wedding after 2st June have been left bitterly disappointed.

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Despite guest numbers of over 30 permitted to take place, the true number of how many guests can attend weddings is now reliant on each venue's capacity - in other words, how many guests can be accommodated for while social distancing.

Following the announcement, @whataboutweddings - which is campaigning for businesses and couples throughout the pandemic - said the increase in numbers was a "token gesture".

"The disparity continues," a spokesperson said. "In every other social setting, when you sit down, you are allowed to remove your masks. However, in a formal wedding ceremony environment, without any alcohol, guests will still be required to wear masks.

"There are aspects and traditions involved with cultural weddings that cannot be undertaken with these restrictions. Couples want to be able to see their friends and family smiling as they tie the knot.

"There is no scientific evidence that dictates we should not be able to have normal weddings, as we know them.

"The average age for people getting married is 37, and the vast majority will have already had at least one vaccination. We know that couples want to keep their friends and family safe, with 83 per cent reporting that they will ask guests to test in advance of their wedding day."

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Following the news, @whataboutweddings reported 72 per cent of couples and businesses responding stated they feel the statement today is "absolute rubbish".

One wrote on Twitter: "The biggest issue here is surely the fact that the gov has made it sound like weddings are allowed, but have put the policing of numbers and being Covid compliant on venues yet again... so couples will assume suppliers are being obstructive & we know now what results from that."

And another said: "It's not good news for weddings as the restrictions are so tight, it's not fair when football & tennis can go ahead without these, I now have to cancel my wedding again."

After studying the guidance released on Monday night, @whataboutweddings also clarified what the new rules actually mean.

"Dancing is only advised against, but dance floors are banned," the campaign group said. "Masks must be worn inside unless seated for food and drink.

"There is no requirement for tables of six, or even for guests to be on socially distanced tables. All food and drink must be served to tables, inside and outside, at venues. In private gardens this is advisory only outside.

"Musicians and DJs are permitted and must follow performing arts guidance generally."

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Sarah Allard, editor of Hitched, also commented on the new guidance.

She said: "The recent government announcement is good news for many couples and wedding businesses who have been waiting a long time for some exciting news on the future of their pending nuptials.

"It's been a very tough year filled with uncertainty and we welcome the Government's decision to allow more than 30 guests at a socially-distanced capacity.

"Recent Hitched data reveals that 93 per cent of UK couples set to marry between now and 2022 are confident that their wedding will take place on its scheduled date, and the latest roadmap announcement will only help to make this dream a reality for many.

"However, this does not mean that every venue will be able to host an unlimited number of guests. Similar to policies in Wales and Northern Ireland, it means the number of guests will be limited by how successfully social distancing rules can be adhered to at the venue.

"The social distancing rules currently stand at "1 metre +", meaning the larger the venue, the more guests can attend. Each couple will need to speak to their venue to find out final numbers that are allowed, but the change in rules means the vast majority of couples marrying after the 21^st June will no longer be limited to 30 people."

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@whataboutweddings has confirmed it is still pushing for normal weddings to go ahead from 21st June.

Topics: Weddings, Life News, Coronavirus

Lucy Devine

Lucy is a journalist working for Tyla. After graduating with a master's degree in journalism, she has worked in both print and online and is particularly interested in fashion, food, health and women's issues. Northerner, coffee addict, says hun a lot. Get in touch at [email protected].