Brides and Grooms Face New Dilemma in Armenia

The newspaper ‘Zhoghovurd’ reports that brides and grooms in Armenia are facing a new dilemma of whether to get married or not. The reason behind this uncertainty is a directive from the Minister of Health stating that, starting January 22, unvaccinated and untested individuals will be banned from entering food and entertainment venues. Those who are not vaccinated or do not present a negative COVID test will be forbidden from entering restaurants, cafes, museums, and other entertainment places.

Restaurants are primarily targeted, as these venues host numerous wedding celebrations. With the upcoming holiday of Dyarnund, many couples are planning to have their wedding ceremonies during this period. ‘Zhoghovurd’ learned that during this time, restaurant managers are advising couples to be cautious with their guest lists and to invite only those relatives who are vaccinated or are willing to take a COVID test.

This requirement has created additional problems for the youth; relatives may not be vaccinated and might not afford the COVID test fees. After all, they need to buy gifts to attend the wedding and also prepare for it (hairstyling, makeup, clothing and shoe expenses). Adding the cost of the test makes attending a wedding much more expensive.

It is noteworthy that many couples who had planned their weddings for February have postponed them indefinitely due to this order, waiting for the restrictions to ease. On the other hand, those who cannot delay their weddings are persuading their relatives to get vaccinated. As is known, the cost of a COVID test ranges from 8,000 to 15,000 AMD. On the other hand, if the Minister of Health is willing to cover the COVID testing costs for all wedding guests, it would be greatly welcomed.

Read the full article in today’s issue of the newspaper.