Do You Want to Ask Your Wedding Guests to Get Vaccinated?
If you’re looking for a diplomatic way to ask your wedding guests to get vaccinated for COVID-19 (or provide a negative PCR test), you’re not alone. Many engaged couples are struggling to find the right words to keep their loved ones safe while maintaining a joyful tone. To make things easier, we’ve done a little “word smithing” for you. Here’s some recommended wedding invitation wording and a few communication tips to help you share your expectations with grace and confidence.
How to Communicate Vaccination or Testing Requests to Wedding Guests
Give your guests plenty of notice
If you plan to require vaccination or a negative COVID test, include that information in your wedding invitation or on your wedding website. Sharing your expectations early allows your guests enough time to prepare and make necessary arrangements.
Send updates promptly
If you make this decision after mailing your invitations, notify your guests as soon as possible. You can send a follow-up postcard, email, or group text to communicate the update clearly and kindly.
Repeat the message
Don’t hesitate to share this information more than once. Some guests may overlook your first message, so a gentle reminder helps ensure everyone understands your request well before the big day.
Respect your guests’ privacy
Handle all vaccination information discreetly. Avoid discussing who is or isn’t vaccinated. By protecting your guests’ privacy, you keep the focus where it belongs: on celebrating your love.
5. Remember your wedding vendors.
It’s equally important to communicate your expectations with your wedding vendors and venue team. Make sure they understand and respect your safety policies so everyone feels comfortable throughout your celebration.
Set Expectations with Kindness and Clarity
Communicating health-related expectations doesn’t have to feel awkward or impersonal. When you share your message clearly, early, and with empathy, your guests will appreciate your thoughtfulness. At the end of the day, these steps are about protecting your loved ones and ensuring everyone feels safe and relaxed as they celebrate your special day.
Recommended Wedding Invitation Wording Regarding COVID-19
Our Efforts To Keep Everyone Safe.
“The impact of these past two years has affected us all, and we know that making any decision to celebrate with family and friends during this time could be extremely difficult.
We understand that your decision to get tested and vaccinated is personal, but we hope that you will join us in our efforts to ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable with attending our wedding.
If you plan to attend (and we truly hope you do), we ask each guest to either: take a PCR or NAATS COVID test at least 72 hours prior to our wedding day with a negative result; OR have completed your vaccine series at least 14 days prior to our wedding day.
We understand that while COVID-19 restrictions are gradually lifting, any future restrictions made by the local government can impact our overall wedding plans. If for any reason we are no longer able to celebrate our wedding day with you, we will notify you no later than 30 days prior to our wedding.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. We cannot wait to celebrate with you and hope to see you there!”
Are You Ready to Plan Your Dream Wedding?
Are you ready to embark upon a ”worry-free” wedding experience? Please contact your wedding planning team at Howerton+Wooten Events.
Love and Soul Always, Kawania
Photo: Trene Forbes Photography
P.S. If you’re interested in booking me as a speaker or wedding industry expert, click here to learn more about the services I offer.