While you cannot cater for the individual needs of every single guest, think how much more considerate of you it would be if you could at least strike a balance between the location, décor and venue and the time of year in which you intend to host your wedding in view of seasonal allergy sufferers. We guarantee that affected guests will be more than thankful. Here are some simple tips you could bear in mind.

That time of Year

The worst time for seasonal allergy sufferers is when trees begin to bloom in early-to-mid-spring and between the change of season from summer to autumn.

How to avoid pollen

Simply put, there’s no way to avoid it, as pollen spreads everywhere around springtime and sufferers are most likely used to the discomfort it brings. But you can help that by choosing a location which is closer to the sea rather than surrounded by nature, as wind off the water tends to have a lower pollen count.

Also, pollen counts in the air tend to be at their peak first thing in the morning and typically drop during late afternoon, which also happens to be a good time to dodge the afternoon heat typical of springtime weather in Malta. Pick an hour a little later in the day to keep sneezing guests to a minimum and make tissues readily available at discreet areas around the venue, namely at the bar, restrooms and even perhaps somewhere near the food tables, so that guests won’t need to stay stopping a waiter for a napkin each time.

Wedding flowers are rarely the problem

The more common flowers used in weddings, such as roses, peonies and lilies produce smaller pollen grains than highly allergenic plants, meaning the grains are unlikely to reach deep inside the lungs and sinuses. Do, however, steer clear of wildflower arrangements, such as ragweed that tend to affect the majority of allergy sufferers.

Do away with dust

We’re quite sure you wouldn’t want a dusty venue period, but making sure it’s been cleaned thoroughly at least 2 days before the wedding helps prevent the kicking up of dust particles into the air on the big day itself. If necessary, place an air purifier or two around the premises to pick up all the harmful allergens that are beyond your control.