Are Your Wedding Plans Being Upended by the Coronavirus Outbreak?
7 Things to Consider
The heath and economic crisis surrounding the global spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) has everyone on edge about the future. Couples planning a destination wedding or even a local one have a lot to consider when deciding whether to go forward, cancel, postpone, or change their plans.
You’ve likely a lot on the line: deposits or payments at risk, guests or family members with airline tickets or elderly/health compromised guests, etc.
Also, there are unanswerable questions such as: Will the beach or venue be open for our celebration? Can we fly? Will holding our wedding be irresponsible? When will this craziness end?
Our hearts go out to you!
We have 16 years of experience planning through hurricanes on the West Coast of Florida. Also, over the past three weeks of talking with wedding venues, vendors, vacation rental managers and other couples, here are seven things to consider:
- Talk with your partner about what’s truly important – is it having your parents or grandparents there with you? Is it the location? Is getting married at a certain time/date imperative?
- Flex where you can and find out where you cannot – If moving to a fall date is possible and it gives you more wiggle room or peace of mind, do it. If your vacation rental won’t refund your payment, find a way to work with having your celebration on site or nearby.
- Look at alternatives: Would eloping in Florida in the fall (followed by a big party at home) be romantic and less stressful? Is a small, local backyard wedding a possibility?
- Ask vendors what they can do for you should you decide to change the venue or date/time, to postpone or cancel altogether. Despite a usual policy regarding refunds, some may be more flexible if you pick up the phone and talk to them.
- Be patient – the situation is changing daily and if you can wait to decide, that may be wise.
- Remember that nurturing your relationship is the most important thing no matter what happens.
- This too shall pass (even though no one can predict exactly when).
Our best to you and your fiancé and your families during this difficult time. If you want to read more about getting married on the SunCoast or reach out with questions, visit https://sayidosuncoast.com or 941.356.3492
