NEW YORK – Couples looking to celebrate their weddings with large ceremonies in New York still have to follow some tough restrictions related to COVID-19, but officials and industry leaders think some of those rules appear to be arbitrary and are calling for changes.
Legislators, along with future brides and members of the wedding industry, urged Governor Andrew Cuomo to ease some of the restrictions, such as removing COVID-19 testing, increasing capacity and eliminating physically distancing seats for dancing.
“Lift these ridiculous and unscientific restrictions so our brides can enjoy one of the most important days of their lives,” said Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio, R-Long Island.
For some, the most onerous task is making sure party guests with more than 100 people have a negative COVID-19 test or proof of vaccination.
“If you don’t have to get tested if you have up to 100 guests, but once you have 101 guests you have to get tested, there is no science in that,” Giglio said.
Sarah Engler is planning a wedding in July and is currently stressed about limiting the guest list as she looks for a way to get everyone tested for COVID-19.
“As we know, getting a COVID-19 test and getting a result quickly is easier said than done,” Engler said.
Increasing capacity limits could make a big difference in party-ready venues for groups of several hundred people.
“It’s not free for everyone, we’re not asking weddings to go back to where they were,” said Heather Cunningham of The Brides of Long Island.
The group said it will continue to be important to monitor temperatures and for guests to wear masks when away from their tables.
Brittany Burton is getting married in September and will try to cut her guest list from 200.
“It is vital that we simplify these mandates so brides, grooms, guests and businesses can ease confusion, ensure compliance and safely re-celebrate love,” said Burton.
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