ENQUIRIES about outdoor weddings are on the rise as couples plan their nuptials in a pandemic-stricken world, said planners.

Organisers said they are receiving more enquiries about small-scale ceremonies as well, so as to abide by the government’s standard operating procedures (SOP) imposed on such events allowed to resume starting yesterday.

The SOP include a 250-guest limit and ban on the elderly, who are at high risk of contracting the coronavirus.

To allay health fears, couples are asking about holding simple receptions outdoors, such as in gardens.

Alight Academy Wedding Planner training director Alice Lee told The Malaysian Insight that many couples said their main concern is their guests’ health.

She said no one wants to be responsible for anyone falling ill as a result of their event.

“Their big worry is the possible spread of Covid-19 among guests in a confined space, like a banquet hall.”

Small receptions are set to be the new norm, leaving behind the large-scale affairs – some with hundreds of tables – favoured in pre-pandemic days.

With this, however, comes the headache of shortlisting invitations, a matter that can be particularly sensitive for some families.

The rule against the elderly attending such events will also be challenging.

“These are tough decisions that have to be made by couples as slighting their friends, parents’ friends, bosses, co-workers and elderly relatives can have negative consequences in some families,” Lee said.

The SOP also encourage wedding guests, hosts and catering staff to wear masks, and Lee said that wedding planners are figuring out how to incorporate this.

Bobo Chan, founder of Best Outdoor Weddings and Events, agreed with Lee that the new normal will see smaller and simpler weddings.

“The SOP greatly reduce the number of guests that can be invited due to seating arrangements that have to comply with social-distancing rules.”

Chan said her company has received enquiries for receptions with fewer than 100 guests.

“This is understandable because the pandemic is not completely over.

“With too many guests and fear of things getting out of control, some are also saying they are not planning to allow children to attend their functions.”

Alight Academy’s Lee, who has 17 years’ experience as a wedding planner, said outdoor receptions and small events will be the trend for the foreseeable future.

“Some will take the opportunity to organise a two-day, one-night event, and use it as a chance to get away with family and friends.

“I believe fewer couples will opt for boisterous drinking and partying at restaurants and hotels, as before.”

Among other conditions imposed by the government at weddings and other gatherings is a five-hour time limit.

The maximum number of 250 attendees is also subject to the size of the location. – July 2, 2020.