‘It’s great to celebrate at last’

Wedding planner Deep Bajwa is looking forward to once again creating some special memories for her clients.

“They’re so grateful restrictions are easing. Some of them are on their third rescheduling of their wedding, so you can imagine the emotions involved,” says Deep, who runs London-based Opulence Events.

And when it comes to safety measures, Deep and her network of suppliers have them covered. “Wedding planners are all about the fine detail, so we want to make all the guests feel comfortable, especially around social distancing,” she says.

“Everyone’s really conscious of working within the guidelines. Whatever we need to do to make sure we’re compliant, we will.”

Deep, who specialises in Asian weddings, has seen a trend emerging for smaller celebrations, which have their advantages. “I was looking at a venue yesterday that would usually hold 350. Now it’s 100, so people look at their guest list a little more closely,” she says. “With Jewish, African and Asian communities, large weddings are the norm. But a lot of couples are reducing their numbers, and that can be an advantage as they can afford nicer things for their guests.”

There’s also been more use of outdoor space in a bid to help avoid Covid transmission. “Venues have been amazing at adapting their outdoor spaces, and if events take place in private gardens or marquees with half of the sides open, it makes it easier to distance,” says Deep.

And with buffets out, table service will be offered: “Caterers have adapted their menus beautifully, and people love that they don’t have to queue for food. It feels very special to have a sit-down meal.”

Despite the uncertainty, Deep has seen many weddings go ahead this summer and she’s confident they’ll be extra-special. “Now more than ever, it’s important for couples to be reminded why they’re doing this, so personal touches are important,” she says. “I love lavishing them with attention and making sure they’re happy. It’ll be amazing to give them that boost. I adore my job and it’s great to get moving at last.”