May 17 easing of Covid restrictions a 'step in right direction' say Derbyshire's wedding and funeral businesses

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to confirm today that a host of changes to national rules will take place as expected on Monday, May 17.

The return of indoor hospitality and overnight stays are expected to be accompanied by good news for the beleaguered wedding industry – with ceremonies of up to 30 people to be allowed.

Bridal shops, reception venues and businesses which cater for stag and hen parties in Derbyshire have all been left devastated by the impact of the pandemic – with estimates suggesting the wedding sector nationally has lost out on more than £430million.

Emma Swain, owner of Nora Eve Bridal Boutique, Chesterfield, said after ‘more than a year of uncertainty’ she was excited for brides ‘who have had their plans on hold’.

“With a guest list of just 30 attendees, couples who have decided to go for it and plan a ‘micro’ wedding are feeling more confident with their budget and are able to indulge in the elements that are most important to them, be that a luxury venue, decadent catering, or the perfect outfit,” Emma said.

“At Nora Eve we’ve seen a sharp upturn in appointments as brides are able to attend their bridal fittings again, and VIP experiences in our luxury lounge are fully booked until the middle of June.”

Emma said she was hopeful of a return to larger weddings by later in the summer.

The easing of restrictions will also mean people planning funerals can give their loved ones something closer to the send off they had hoped.

Mark Rothman, of Spire Funeral Services, Chesterfield, said telling families they could only have a certain number of people at funerals has been the most difficult part of a challenging year.

"The major change is now that individual venues are likely to determine numbers themselves,” Mark said.

"It will also be possible for families to have wakes indoors at pubs. Some people have taken the option of having them outdoors by booking a few tables in the past month.

"It will give us some kind of normality and is a step in the right direction as long as everyone is sensible.”

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