Venues and other wedding businesses say they are “absolutely desperate” for date clarity in Wales with warnings that couples are cancelling and moving their big days to other parts of the 海角视频.
Last week the Welsh Government outlined a roadmap for large parts of the economy - with indoor hospitality and tourism given a provisional May 17 reopening date.
When it came to weddings First Minister Mark Drakeford said he “anticipates” that the number of people at wedding receptions will rise to 30 people indoors and 50 outdoors from May 17 but no decision would be made until after the Senedd elections on May 6. Currently receptions must take place at outside venues (not private gardens) and are limited to 30 people.
Meanwhile in England up to 30 will be allowed at a ceremony/reception at a Covid-secure venue indoors or outdoors from May 17 and all restrictions lifted from June 21(at the earliest).
In Scotland, 50 people can attend weddings and receptions - provided venues can allow for 2m (6ft) physical distancing.
Tracey Owen, from Tyn Dwr Hall in Llangollen, who also speaks on behalf of colleagues in the sector, said: “We are now the last nation not to be given further guidance for weddings due to take place in the coming months.
“Last week’s update provides no further clarity for our couples, and as a result I have received emails from couples due to be married in July and August wishing to cancel their wedding plans with us.
“To be told that further decisions need to be made by the next administration only demonstrates the lack of understanding of how the wedding industry works.
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“Couples need at least three months to prepare for their weddings, couples need to make decisions now on weddings that are months away, not three weeks. In June I had 18 weddings, I now only have 1 left.
“Our competitors across the border in England and Scotland can already begin their recovery.
“In Wales – we are stuck at numbers of 30 and no further guidance. We need weddings for 50 indoors, and we need to let our couples know now before it’s too late to save the summer season.”
The next Welsh Government review update is on May 13.
Tracey said: “It will be absolutely imperative that we receive instructions for the coming months, not for the next three to five weeks.
“We do understand how difficult the situation has been but with all of the data proving so positive we need guidance immediately.”
Welsh Government has said it will follow a step-by-step gradual approach out of lockdown and that the next Government will also have a £200m funding pot to support impacted businesses.
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