At the beginning when weddings were being cancelled, tentatively rescheduled, then pushed out indefinitely, it was difficult. And I missed the parties – the energy cannot be matched – and I missed the collaboration and camaraderie with my office colleagues. But people make what they want. You can wait for the phone to ring or you can go out there and build it. Discovering how to create wonderful micro-weddings with our team and partners was something I loved doing.

It’s been incredibly rewarding to work with couples during this challenging time. At times, I feel like an event matchmaker: the clients not only select the venue, but we make a real connection which builds trust and makes the planning process even more personal. And I’ve also gotten close to the mothers of the brides. They want their daughters to have it all, and to make the day as special as possible despite the intimate size of the group.

3 Key Things Amanda Looks For Initially:

• Rebound Bookings – if a couple has been “bounced” from a previously planned location

• Party Size – confirming that the couple are really ok with a party for just 50 people and helping manage expectations for what is possible

• Wishlist – understanding what is most important for the couple so we can find the best possible solution for their wedding

The New Wedding Size: 

• Initially, events were limited to 20 guests, now they can include 50 celebrants.

• Some clients are booking into 2022 anticipating a return to large events.

• When booking 2021, Amanda tries to make sure couples will be happy with just 50.

Components Of Style:

• Resuming Weddings – The bridal industry bounced back in August with vendors and suppliers ready for the new landscape.

• Traditional Ceremonies – Smaller wedding parties are resulting in more traditional ceremony formats.

• Nature Inspired – Because so many weddings are outside, there is a move towards more nature inspired décor. 

• Inside Out – Conversely, there is a fun accent of bringing the indoors out – with fun furniture and settings.

• Double the Pleasure – Although this is the year for smaller, scaled- back weddings for couples wishing to get married immediately, some couples are planning a “sequel” for once Covid restrictions are lifted. They’re planning also planning a big blowout when they can celebrate with their larger group of family, friends and loved ones.

Virtual Component: 

• The Big Screen – Expect to see a large video screen at the ceremony with cameras and drones on hand to capture all aspects of the ceremony. 

• Virtual Interaction – Guests who are not able to attend in person can also participate! We’ve seen couples dedicate time to their virtual guests and even incorporate them into the event.

Venues: 

• 2 popular locations this summer and for 2021 are Wave Hill and Caramoor.

• Because of the smaller sized groups in these gardens, our brides are discovering and utilizing spaces more creatively than in previous years.

• From out east at the beach to up north in the Hudson Valley, Amanda and team are finding more choice locations.

• City roof tops, terraces and other urban open spaces are in demand!

• Instead of destinations guests fly to, accessibility by car is desirable.

Covid-Testing: 

• Some clients request evidence of recent testing; a few provide on-site rapid tests, for service staff as well.

• Guests are expected to test and quarantine in advance of the wedding