New Hampshire COVID Guidelines for Weddings as of March 17, 2021

BARS

Bars are permitted, but social distancing must be observed, so consider adding multiple bars, or having servers pass beverages on trays to help alleviate any kind of crowding at the bar areas.

bUFFETS

Use of "self-serve" utensils, plates, and/or napkins are not allowed. No self-serve buffets; employee-staffed buffets are permitted so long as staff only are touching serving utensils and serving guests. Social distancing in buffet lines must be maintained. Employees must wear cloth face coverings.

COCKTAIL HOUR

Whether seated or standing, attendees should not gather in groups of more than six people. Stationary food displays are permitted as long as they are either staffed by the caterer, or servings are pre-portioned and plated to minimize communal contact. Passed appetizers are also allowed, but there cannot be any communal serving pieces on passed trays - it has to be items that can be singularly picked up by hand by your guests.

DANCE FLOOR

Dancing within six feet of another individual is discouraged, with the exception of family members and individuals from the same household.

GUEST COUNT

Events in venues may operate at 100 percent of their normal operating seating capacity that can be accommodated with social distancing between tables.

Special thank you to Mezzanine Catering for collaborating with us on compiling these guidelines.

MASKS

As of Friday, April 16, 2021, New Hampshire's statewide mask mandate expired. Private businesses and local cities/towns within the state may still require masks, so it is best to check in with your venue. New Hampshire state guidelines encourages people to wear masks when they cannot practice social distancing.

MUSIC

Small group bands permitted with 10 feet of distance between performer and audience (8 feet for DJs and solo artists). 

SEATING

Maximum of ten people per table. Table spacing (both indoors and outdoors) should be maintained so people sitting at adjacent tables are more than 6 feet apart, and servers and waiters/waitresses should be able to maintain social distance while interacting with tables (e.g. taking orders). People moving between tables (e.g. customers going to the restroom) should also have adequate space to move between tables.

TENTS

The tent cannot have more than two sides down at any given time; if so, it could be considered an indoor venue and would have to follow indoor rules.

VENUES

Guidelines vary based on the venue's primary purpose/industry. It is best to check the specific guidelines for each venue type, available at covidguidance.nh.gov. For religious wedding ceremonies, follow the universal guidance and places of worship guidance. For receptions, follow the restaurants and dining guidance and weddings guidance.

Special thank you to Mezzanine Catering for collaborating with us on compiling these guidelines.