Like many out there, you're probably thinking, dammit lets just get hitched! Covid or not! You might be thinking of just having your ceremony and make it official then just have a big celebration later on, or you might be thinking of just going ahead on the original date and just go along with the restrictions.

Whatever it is, make sure you know what can and can't be done in a lockdown wedding within each of the levels.

Level 4

This video does a good job of explaining weddings in level 4.

Level 3

Weddings can go ahead but there's some pretty strict rules to follow.

- There’s a 10 person limit so aside from the 2 of you, you can invite up to 8 people. You can have up to 5 extra vendors so for example, the celebrant, photographer, videographer, etc.

- Food and drinks can be served however guests will need to be seated in order to be served. So feel free to pop a champagne but just don’t go wondering around with them in hand :D

- For those attending, they're allowed to attend if they reside within the same or neighbouring region within the level 3 area.

- Highly recommended that attendees there to stay 2m apart from anyone who isn't in their bubble. And as always, a mask goes a long way too!

Level 2

Smaller sized and intimate weddings can go ahead!

- There's a 50 people limit if any part of your big day is considered indoors (e.g. churches, 4 walls and a roof, you get the picture)

- Limit of 100 people applies if your event is held outdoors, this will include marquee weddings so yay!

- The above limits don't apply to vendors, just you and your guests. Venue staff, photographers, etc doesn't eat away at that limit.

- Vendors however will be required to wear a mask and keep a 2m distance from you and any guest.

While the below aren't rules, they are highly recommended guidelines for keeping you, your guests and all the vendors safe.

- If food is being served, it is much more preferable to have coursed meals with table service as opposed to self services such as buffets.

- Encourage your guests to mask up!

- Ask the venue if there are any additional safety precautions/requirements to know all the dets and avoid being suprised on the day.

- Singing and dancing is fine but um.... try doing it at a safe distance from peeople not in your bubble. But being realistic... this one's gonna be a tough one so the next point is super important.

- Tell everyone NOT to attend (yes even the bride and groom!) if they're feeling unwell (get tested quick!!) or if they've been asked to self isolate.

Level 1

You're all good!

- There's no real restrictions as that might impact the wedding itself!

- People from regions that are in level 1 and 2 are able to travel to the venue.

BUT!! Always remember that we're still in pretty crazy times so again, if any of your guests, vendors or even yourself (touch wood!) are feeling unwell or have been asked to self isolate, then don't attend.

Hope that helps!

From the team at Dear White, we know we can’t wait to get out and start creating magic again but we also know keeping our whanau and the community safe comes first. Auckland wedding photographer signing off <3

p.s. if you’re still not 100% sure, don’t wing it! Click bellow to head to the government page for more information or maybe even give them a buzz if you’re still not sure.