Will I be able to get married spring 2020?
Congratulations on your engagement! While planning a wedding during the COVID-19 global pandemic is extremely stressful, don’t let it ruin this special time in your lives. Wedding planning is complex in the best of times, and spring 2020 has the added complication of a global pandemic.
Oaks Manor Events wants to help. We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about gatherings in New York this spring. For more information about our wedding venue, call (585) 468-6257.
Can wedding venues stay open?
As of the writing of this post, May 7, 2020, wedding venues in New York are considered nonessential businesses and must remain closed. Some restaurants are open, with drive-through or takeout only. Wedding venues are not considered essential — though we know a lot of brides disagree — and are currently not allowed to open.
When will wedding venues re-open?
It is unknown when wedding venues, banquet halls, and other event spaces will be able to re-open. Governor Cuomo recently issued a plan for re-opening New York. The plan has no dates but is divided by phases. Wedding venues will be part of Phase 3. There is no information available as to how long each phase will last.
In addition to waiting until the appropriate phase of NY’s plan, businesses are bound by precautions, including social distancing protocols and required masks.
Because weddings tend to be large social gatherings, it’s likely that spring 2020 weddings at venues will be postponed or canceled.
What if I’m already booked? Can my wedding venue cancel?
Unfortunately, if the state is not in Phase 3 of the Re-Opening New York guidelines, your wedding venue will have no choice but to cancel. Call your venue to ask about rescheduling or arranging for a refund per their policies.
What are my choices if I want to get married in May or June?
Some brides and grooms have chosen to have small weddings at home, following social distancing rules. These couples are planning to book reception venues when things open back up, so they can celebrate with friends and extended family when it’s safe.
Others are choosing small outdoor weddings. These generally include just immediate family. These couples are also planning parties for later in the year.
Some of the couples who are choosing to get married are inviting guests to attend online, using Zoom or other video communication platforms. We’re fortunate to have the technology to make this possible!
Once we are open at Oaks Manor Events, we’ll be happy to take reservations for our banquet hall and manor. Our manor has 11 bedrooms, so all your out-of-town guests — or locals — will have plenty of room to hang out together, celebrate your marriage, and make up for lost time.
Will my friends be upset they couldn’t come to my wedding?
Your friends and extended family will be happy for you! Don’t let COVID-19 ruin the first day of the rest of your lives together.
Whether you choose to get married this spring and schedule a reception later, or you choose to postpone your wedding date until NY is fully re-opened, Oaks Manor Events is here to help. Contact us to find out what we have to offer.
How to Create a Vendor List from Scratch
To start building your vendor list, begin with a list of wedding vendors that are most essential to your vision. At Oaks Manor, couples often bring in their own:
- Caterers and bartenders
- Florists and decorators
- Musicians or DJs
- Photographers and videographers
- Officiants
- Hair and makeup teams
- Rental companies for furniture, tents, or décor
You can use a vendor list template, a spreadsheet, a wedding planning app, or even a shared Google Document to track key details. Be sure to include names, contact info, arrival/setup times, and payment deadlines. Your event vendor list doesn’t need to be fancy; it just needs to be clear, accessible, and shared with the people who need it.
Choosing the Right Vendors for an Estate Wedding
Since Oaks Manor is only a host location, we don’t lock you into a preferred vendor list. That means you’re free to work with the professionals you love most and build a day that reflects your style, priorities, and budget.
Still, the best vendors are those who understand you, your style, your pace, and your goals. Set up calls, read reviews, and don’t be afraid to ask, “Have you worked at an event venue like this before?” The right team will be just as excited as you are to bring your ideas to life.
Best Practices for a Vendor List
As you finalize your list of vendors for an event, consider the following tips.
- Keep everything in one place. Whether it’s digital or on paper, your vendor list should include full names, phone numbers, email addresses, contracts, and notes regarding responsibilities.
- Share your timeline. Your vendors should know when they can arrive, when they need to be finished, and where they will be setting up. Oaks Manor’s flexibility makes this easy; we offer extended access for setup and breakdown.
- Confirm details in writing. A well-organized vendor contact list is your insurance against miscommunication.
- Stay in touch. A quick check-in with each vendor a week before your wedding helps avoid last-minute surprises.
Maintaining clear communication and records of conversations will help you keep track of your plans and ensure everything is clear for you and your vendors.
FAQ’s
Seeking more information on creating a vendor list? See the frequently asked questions below or contact our team, and we will be happy to help!
Why is a vendor list important?
A vendor list helps you stay organized, ensures vendors know where and when to appear, and provides everyone with a clear point of contact.
When you’re managing an event as unique as a wedding at a private estate, that level of coordination can make all the difference.
What is a Vendor List?
A document that keeps track of all the professionals and services involved in your event. Including how to contact them, dates, prices, arrival and departure times, legal information, important details or conversations, and any other relevant information you need to keep track of for your event.
How to Create a Vendor List?
This is your all-in-one organizer. Your vendor list should include each vendor’s business name, contact person, phone number & email, arrival/setup times, contract status, remaining balance due, important conversations, legal agreements, and any other relevant details you want to remember. Keep it somewhere accessible, such as a shared Google Sheet, a wedding planning app, or a printed folder that you bring to the venue.
Plan Your Event at Oaks Manor
At Oaks Manor, we offer space for up to 180 guests, provide outdoor ceremonies, and feature a brand-new carriage house that is perfect for cocktail hour. Please get in touch with our team, and we will arrange a time for you to take a tour.
