While this week’s announcement on lockdown easing in England being delayed until July comes as a blow to the industry, the news that weddings can now go ahead provides hope.
Earlier this week, the Prime Minister announced that the long-awaited final stage of the easing of restrictions on 21 June, will be delayed until 19 July in England. The news means that the remaining limitations on social contact will continue for another month, serving a further blow to the party industry.
However, the limit on wedding guests has been removed as expected, and happy couples will now be able to invite as many guests as they wish, as long as COVID-19 risk assessments are carried out.
There are some restrictions still in place for weddings – dancing indoors is still banned, and table service will need to be in use with tables no larger than six people, among others – but it’s a positive move back to socialising and partying recommencing after the lockdown period.
The news offers a welcome opportunity for suppliers and retailers alike as it signals the beginning of mass gatherings again. Michele Gaudelli, commercial director, Club Green/Hootyballoo, commented: “We are extremely pleased to see restrictions have been eased to allow more weddings to take place this summer. The wedding supply-chain has been gearing up for months, and we know thousands of families around the country have been planning, saving and eagerly looking forward to seeing their loved-ones tie the knot.
“This has also stimulated the hen and stag party market which we can see many of our customers are getting stocked up for! Club Green has been a leading supplier of wedding/party products for over 30 years and both our new and existing ranges reflect the ‘excitement of the moment’ both in terms of the happy couple and the wider wedding industry.
“We’re fully stocked and ready to meet the needs of our customers in the months ahead.”
