Invite envy
As small weddings are permitted from today, Stephanie Smith finds out what Yorkshire special occasion designers have up their sleeves for guests going to late summer and autumn weddings.
Abig wedding is not for everyone. For those who want to marry but hate the prospect of hundreds of guests and masses of fuss, the new focus on smaller weddings offers an ideal solution with a perfect excuse.
From this weekend, weddings of up to 30 people are allowed to take place in England, having been banned under almost all circumstances since lockdown began on March 23.
Smaller need not mean less special and some couples and guests are thankful for a more intimate and less daunting gathering. Special occasion designers are on hand with ideas and suggestions to make sure the day is still a very stylish affair.
“I think this is great news for those wishing to still have their ceremony, even though small,” said Halifax-based red carpet and special occasion fashion designer Kevan Jon. “Couples may take a more relaxed approach in what they wear and so, rather than the big church wedding with the big frock, a bride might choose to wear something a little more contemporary.”
But he believes many style lovers will be glad of the opportunity to dress up, should they be lucky enough to receive a wedding invitation. “After the time we have spent in lockdown and lounge wear, I think people will relish in the idea of popping on a frock and heels – even though we’ll have to learn to walk in them again. As a close lady friend said as she slipped her Jimmy Choos on, it’s nice to have you back and it’s like riding a bike – a bit of a wobble at first, then you’re off.” He added that his stockist retailers are already reporting decent sales, adding: “Next year we are hoping for a bumper year, wedding and event-wise. People will want to celebrate and party after the first part of 2020.”
Jillian Welch, a bespoke special occasion designer based in Harrogate, said weddings are going to be smaller and more intimate gatherings at least for the next six to nine months. “Partly from necessity re Government dictates and social distancing, but also I think there will be a long tail effect to the pandemic, with people being inhibited about group events, possibly for quite a long time, regardless of the actual threat. People may not want to travel to weddings, even domestically, and a lot of people may have money worries.”