Mock Wedding at OceanCliff | Training for COVID-19 Event Procedures

Updated: Feb 2, 2021

A Mock Wedding was held at OceanCliff last week and we are excited to share the highlights from that day and some of the procedures that will be in effect for 2021 events.

The event was organized by the Rhode Island Coalition of Wedding & Event Professionals, funded by Rhode Island Commerce, and in partnership with the Rhode Island Department of Health, the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation, and the Providence Warwick Convention and Visitors Bureau.

The goal was to produce a training video demonstrating how event professionals can host weddings that align with the state’s public health guidelines, implement safety protocols, and lay the foundation for a safe and successful 2021 season for weddings and events

in Rhode Island.

During the event, we introduced the BinaxNOW rapid test — in partnership with the Rhode Island Department of Health — for all vendors and guests that were in attendance. The results were texted to the individual within 15 minutes and anyone with a negative test was able to enter the wedding celebration, with their mask on.

We also introduced, as an innovative concept, the COVID Safety Officer, who assists in maintaining the safety procedures that are in place, including mask wearing, social distancing and all other restrictions. This “Officer” can be an employee of the venue who has gone through the training. They would also assist in providing the COVID testing.

The venue team prepares seating including measuring 6 feet between tables, wiping down seats, and will be masked during the event. Chairs and any touch points will be thoroughly disinfected.

Seating will be outdoors whenever possible. Masks are required for guests and chairs will be set up in pods. Any microphones used during the ceremony will be cleaned and wiped down between users.

Full makeup and hair services are permitted with the artist wearing a mask or face shield.

Kitchen staff prepare meals while remaining socially distant and masked.

Guests will enter the cocktail hour and be seated immediately. Hors d’oeuvres and beverages will be served by waitstaff to the guests at their table. Tables are grouped by household. Masks may be removed while seated.

DJs/bands will be stationed behind plexiglass partitions and will sanitize microphones before and between toasts. Parent and first dances can still occur. During those special moments, masks for those involved in the dance can be removed. Dancing for your guests can occur in “pods” near your table, with masks on.

We are also expecting an increase in guest count in the coming months. While some of these rules and guidelines may change, it’s best to check https://covid.ri.gov/ for current guidelines.

Many thanks to everyone who participated in this mock wedding event,

especially our amazing vendor team!

Venue: OceanCliff

Photographer: Sara Zarella Photography

Videographer: Montage Media Productions + Mike Picard Motion Pictures

Florist: Golden Gate Studios

Music: Kenneth Ferrara

Officiant: Mike Egan

Men’s Attire: Aldo’s House of Formals

Jewelry: Perception Jewelry

Bride’s Attire: Spark Bridal

Beauty: Ali Lomazzo Beauty