Utah is one of the most sought-after wedding destinations. Couples cannot get over the gorgeous outdoors, the picturesque sceneries, and the affordability of the occasion.
According to Value Penguin, saying I Do in the Beehive State could cost around $27,000. It’s significantly cheaper than when couples go to Vermont or Washington.
But the coronavirus pandemic is changing the dynamics—and plans—of weddings. Can couples still proceed with it? If you’re thinking of getting married in Utah now, then these are the questions you have to pay attention to:
1. Can You Get Married Despite the Pandemic?
The answer is yes, but it comes with many caveats, which you will know later. Because of the many restrictions and rules, many couples postpone, delay, or even cancel their weddings
On the bright side, some states are already easing many of their guidelines, and Utah is one of them. Several suppliers are also more than ready to help couples make their dream come true this year. These range from a wedding planner to a wedding bartender.
These professionals prioritize safety and health, so you can feel more confident in staging your wedding even in these uncertain times.
2. How Long Does It Take to Process Your License?
In Utah, you can get your marriage license fast. As soon as you have it, you can already get married. Note that it expires within 30 days.
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the county clerks, especially in Salt Lake, will allow couples to process their license online. However, they still have to be present when they submit their application. They also need to provide valid proof of identification, such as a driver’s license.
The marriage license costs $50, and couples can pay it through money order or credit card. The office doesn’t accept cash. The office will also not conduct any marriage ceremony until further notice.
3. Can You Say I Do at Church?
Yes, you can, and many churches are already opening their doors once again. However, if you like a big wedding, well, you have to put that plan away this year.
Based on the guidelines, people still need to maintain social distancing inside these houses of worship. All guests must be at least six feet away from one another. Depending on the city or county where you want to have a Utah wedding, the number of attendees is between 20 and 50 people, including the one who will officiate it.
4. Is It Okay to Have a Party?
It depends on how you define a party. What is essential is, all of you can follow the standard health protocols:
- All guests must wear masks.
- Everyone should follow social distancing measures.
- No sick person must attend the event.
- The number of persons must be within the range recommended by the city or county.
You can also exercise more safety precautions:
- Skip catering and opt for curbside delivery of the supplies you need.
- Keep the gathering short and simple.
- Avoid buffets.
5. Can Anyone Join the Wedding?
The answer is no. Although the restrictions are easing, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) still strongly recommends at-risk groups from going out. These are seniors, children, pregnant women, and people with preexisting conditions.
If you want to have them around during your wedding, you can livestream your event using video conference tools, such as Zoom.
A wedding needs strategic planning, and it’s essential these days. It might be more challenging, but it’s doable. Others have already done it.
