2021 Weddings in New York Get the Green Light

In late January, Governor Cuomo announced that wedding receptions will be able to take place in New York State starting March 15, 2021. There is still much to be sorted out, below I have outlined what we do and don’t know right now. This post was last updated on February 23, 2021.

What We Know

Weddings will be able to take place in 2021 and having official direction from the state is a huge step for an industry that has received little direction when it comes to guidelines during this pandemic. We know that:

  • Receptions of up to 50% capacity with a maximum of 150 people will be permitted in New York State starting March 15, 2021.

  • All guests must be tested prior to the event.

  • The state is developing an app to help track who has been tested.

  • Local health officials must approve the event.

  • Guests will be required to sign in with contact info in case contact tracing is necessary.

  • Masks will be required at all times, except when seating and eating or drinking.

  • Ceremonial and socially distanced dancing will be allowed but with strict guidelines.

What We Don’t Know

Beyond the capacity and testing requirement there are still many unanswered questions. Such as:

  • How far in advance can guests be tested in order to be considered cleared to attend the wedding?

  • Will onsite testing at events be an option?

  • How long will this regulation stay in place?

  • What will the guidelines for dancing be?

Stay Tuned

The state has said that more information will be rolling out over the next few weeks. New York tends to be a leader with regulations and we expect other states in the region to follow suit. I will be monitoring the information closely and updating this post as more information becomes available.

Laura Gardner