If you’re reading this, stop and give yourself a big pat on the back (or give a loved one a long hug) for making it through the last 14 months! Whether you’re a couple trying to navigate COVID guidelines to plan your wedding, or a wedding industry professional, this was undoubtedly one of the most challenging times we’ve ever faced in the business.
We’ve been keeping watchful eye on statewide and regional updates, and we are happy to report that on July 4, 2021, it is anticipated that all coronavirus gathering restrictions will be lifted in the state of Vermont.
At the start of this month, the Vermont Department of Health released the following guidelines for indoor and outdoor multi-household gatherings and events. New guidelines will go into effect on June 1 as well, and we’ll post an update when that happens. Read on for the full lowdown, and get in touch with us if you have any questions about planning your wedding!
Vermont has limits on social gatherings and events based on whether you are fully vaccinated or not. You are fully vaccinated 14 days after your final shot. Since children under age 16 cannot get vaccinated at this time, they are considered unvaccinated.
As of May 1, the following limits apply to both social gatherings at a private residence and events at a venue. If you don’t know if someone is fully vaccinated, then assume everyone is unvaccinated and follow that guidance.
For indoor gatherings:
There can be one unvaccinated person per 100 square feet up to 150 unvaccinated people (whichever is less), plus any number of fully vaccinated people. 100 square feet is about the area covered by a big sports utility vehicle (SUV).
- If only fully vaccinated people are at the gathering, no one needs to wear a mask or stay 6 feet apart.
- If anyone at the gathering is unvaccinated, at higher risk of severe COVID-19, or lives with someone at who is at higher risk, then everyone needs to wear a mask and stay 6 feet apart.
For outdoor gatherings:
There can be 300 unvaccinated people, plus any number of fully vaccinated people.
- When you’re outdoors, masks are only required when you’re in a crowd or with multiple other households where you can’t maintain a 6-foot distance. Follow this guidance whether you are vaccinated or not.
If you are a visitor traveling to Vermont and staying at a lodging establishment, short-term rental, or with friends and family, you must follow these gathering restrictions. Staying with another household is considered a social gathering and you must follow the rules listed above. Learn more about Vermonters hosting visitors in their homes.