“I will not hire a makeup artist anymore, my face will be covered with a mask anyway. But I need a mask with sparkling sequins.” These were my initial thoughts when I was planning my renewal of vows.

It’s been 20 years since I last exchanged vows with my husband Emil Buencamino and we figured we would seize the day and renew our vows amidst this crippling pandemic.

Due to the global situation, many couples who wish to tie the knot during this pandemic have drastically changed plans.

Downsizing

This is the first drastic plan change because by law you cannot have more than 10 guests in a gathering. Limiting your guests to strictly family makes it difficult for couples who wish their friends and other relatives can join their momentous event.

But COVID 19 chooses no one. Your best friend or first degree cousin can transfer the lethal disease and that’s it.

Zoom parties

Limiting your physical guests is a must but your virtual guests can be a lot! Thanks to Zoom and other applications on the net we can hold parties and gatherings up to a hundred.

Of course physical gatherings are still different but until the vaccine is readily available for everyone, we all have to adjust to the new norm.

Making things simpler

Part of downsizing is making things simpler. In doing so, may I suggest not to compromise your photo and video supplier because that is the only saving grace you will get - having beautiful photos and dramatic videos for your event. We got Niceprint Photo and we were so happy because they are geniuses in wedding onsite videos and photos.

Another area that you should not crimp on is food. There are so many prohibitions nowadays and binging on good food is your only way to escape harsh realities.

To all the couples who wish to wed during this pandemic like us, bear in mind what is important- it’s not your guests, it’s not how big your event is, it’s not even about the wedding gown. It’s about two hearts becoming one. It’s the first day that you will be together for the rest of your loves. It’s about pledging your love for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health.

So if you are just after the glitz and glamor of a wedding and you are not ready to take in these responsibilities, DO NOT TIE THE KNOT. But if you are so in love and are willing to endure everything because of love, then, this is the perfect time to get hitched.

#renewalofvows

GOSSIP GIRL: Getting married during a pandemic