We’re entering into uncharted territory with the Covid 19 pandemic. School years are being canceled, high school seniors can’t have graduations, we’re having virtual baby showers because we can’t throw parties, and what are we supposed to do about the weddings we have had planned?

As the virus continues to spread throughout the world, you may be asking yourself, ‘Should I postpone my wedding because of the pandemic?’ My heart breaks for you and I’m so sorry you have to even consider this. Just know, I’m here to help you if you have to postpone your wedding.

First things first: It is OKAY to feel sad about postponing your wedding!

You’re probably thinking, ‘why should I be upset about this?’ I have my health, I have my family, and that’s what is important. While that is all true, it doesn’t diminish the disappointment of having to postpone or cancel your wedding. It’s OKAY to grieve the things that we are going to be missing out on. You can feel sad, disappointed, confused and angry. Your emotions are real and valid. Who would have thought a PANDEMIC would affect your wedding day?

Now for the next big question… Should we postpone or cancel our wedding?

This is just my two cents, but as a wedding vendor, I would highly suggest postponing your wedding rather than cancelling. If you cancel, you are running the risk of losing retainers paid to save your date. Pro Tip: Before you contact your vendors, make sure you go through their contracts to see what it says about your retainer. Since these are hard times, your wedding vendors might be willing to work with you. The best advice I can give you is to make sure you have an idea of what you’re going to do before you reach out to your vendors. Remember, we’re here to help you the best we can during these times.

Here is some helpful information if you have to make the hard decision of postponing your wedding:

• Contact your vendors about your postponed wedding
• Now you’ve decided that you’re going to postpone your wedding, it’s time to reach out to your vendors. When reaching out to vendors, here are some things to keep in mind: Make sure you read their contract and understand what their rescheduling policy is.
• Be prepared that there might be an additional rescheduling fee (some may waive it)
• Keep an open mind about alternative wedding dates.
• Get a list of availability from your vendors Prepare to be flexible

 

Let your guests know that you’re postponing your wedding

Besides the final decision to postpone, this will be one of the hardest things to do. Remember everyone invited to your wedding love you and your partner! They’re going to want what’s best for you both. Here are some tips to help you communicate your postponed wedding plans to your guests:

• Catch them up on your process. Let them know you’ve been staying up-to-date with the coronavirus and wanted to make a decision that is the best for everyone involved.
• Don’t be ashamed of postponing your wedding! Clearly communicate that you’ve decided to postpone your wedding.
• Be clear on the details you do have and leave out any you’re not sure of. For example, if you are sure you’re postponing your wedding, but you don’t know the rescheduled date, don’t give your guests any of the new dates you are considering.
• Let your guests be there for you! If you two need encouragement, ask for it! Maybe you just need someone to FaceTime you and tell you is going to be okay.

 

From the bottom of my heart, I’m so sorry that you had to postpone your wedding. You’ve poured your heart and soul into this special day and now it’s being put on hold. I’m here to be helpful in every way I can. Now that your wedding is officially postponed, I want to mention another option that’s available to you:

ELOPE!

 

A wedding elopement is a great choice if you are set on keeping your original date. Eloping and having a reception after social distancing restrictions have been lifted can provide you with a magical, intimate wedding.

If you have questions about eloping or elopement wedding packages, please don’t hesitate to reach out and send me a message!