DESTINATIONS FRANCE
GETTING MARRIED IN FRANCE DURING COVID-19
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BY AMANDINE TARAVELLIER & FLORENCE CROIZER
T
oday, it is possible to marry religiously and civilly if the new measures of the government are respected. At the town hall, the number of people is limited to 30 (depending on the capacity). Make note that the gathering can only take place until 6 p.m. Also, be mindful that, due to the establishment of their national curfew and restrictions, it is necessary to wear masks and respect social distancing. Nevertheless, we noticed a clear improvement when it comes to compliance with these measures. As for places of worship, weddings are allowed, provided that two seats are left free between each person, as well as every other row remain empty. In recent months, the onset of the coronavirus pandemic has unexpectedly affected wedding and honeymoon plans for many couples.
WEDDINGS Since the health rules and regulations are constantly evolving, it is now difficult to plan well in advance. While it is true that a large portion of the weddings planned for 2020/21 had already been postponed, it is not impossible that they may be postponed a second time. The person in charge of the health department in each city in France is a mayor (Le Maire ou madame le Maire for a woman) and has all the power to decide whether or not to celebrate weddings. COVID-19 spreads differently from one region to another, and from one city to another. Nevertheless, a new trend is setting up. Our pretty couples are opting more for intimate weddings and elopement. As this is celebrated in a small group, logistically, it is much easier to manage than a traditional wedding, even though it still has to be prepared in advance. Often times, the location, itself, can serve as decoration, so simplicity is the keyword. Meet in a lavender field in Provence, or at the foot of the Eiffel Tower in Paris for a photoshoot. Keep in mind that wearing a mask is mandatory in the streets. We must also pay attention to the time, since there is a curfew at 6 p.m. unless you celebrate the evening in a family home, or on your property, and all the guests remain on site after the curfew, until the next day. In France, at a wedding, we usually party until the early hours of the morning, so the night goes by quickly.
HONEYMOON The honeymoon symbolizes romance for the new couple who can now plan to rest after preparing for their wedding for several months. Honeymoon trips to the end of the world have always been the dream of many couples, but France has always been a trendy destination with foreign tourists. However, with so many having to postpone their visits to our beautiful regions, some may have been forced to visit other countries.
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At present, bars, restaurants, museums, cinemas, theaters, remain closed—all the places that make up the charm and the culture of our magnificent country. While France may not be easily accessible today, we know that we can't wait to receive our foreign friends again, and to help you celebrate your wedding or your honeymoon. It is almost impossible to find easily accessible destinations in our vast territory. It is therefore not always possible to plan a wedding during this pandemic, but with hard work, a wonderful professional planner, and patience, you may just find your special place. The period of pause allows you to take the time to find the right providers and to organize this intimate event. Please make certain that you plan your budget for every component of the wedding, down to reception venues, caterer, and DJ. Your priorities must be well-established and properly ordered. Even if you choose to have the reception in a private home, it is nevertheless important to make this place elegant. You should not compromise on your aesthetics. We have a few tips for wedding professionals in France for whom the current situation has been complicated. Questions must be asked and answered: • • • •
Where in France are you planning the wedding for your client? What are the rules of that specific providence? How many people will be in attendance? How many vendors will you require?
During these challenging times, we should not be taking risks with our clients' safety or that of our own staff. But we at Wedding District stand ready to create the most amazing experience for all of our clients and their guests.
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