October Wedding(s) Covid19

We are getting married 10.10.2020

I just sent emails to our venue (they also handle, photography, DJ, Officiant, Bar, Cake and Catering), Hair & Make-up and Florist yesterday to inquire what to do if this continues through the summer. They all said right now we have to wait and see. They are all hopefully that we will be able to continue as planned. I think it is good to reach out now and see what their rescheduling/postponing policies are in light of the crisis and how that might affect your deposits.

I was contacted two weeks ago by the boutique I purchased my dress from to come get my dress because they are not an essential business and have to close. They did not want to leave the dresses there that were waiting for alterations while they were closed. Come August, I will have to bring it back for alterations.

I find myself thinking about what if we have to postpone and then try to remind myself to be hopeful that everything will be better soon (not just for our wedding, but for every one).

We’re getting married on 10.2.20. Our venue sent out an email to all the summer and fall couples detailing our options for postponement, which are to have our wedding in the winter or on a weekday in 2021, neither of which I’m okay with. I would be okay with postponing to a Friday in October 2021 or just completely cancelling and getting a refund, neither of which were options they offered. We have a payment due on Thursday and I am so nervous about paying it. I had my aunt, who’s a lawyer, look over my contract to see if the venue would have to give us our money back in the event the wedding couldn’t take place due to the pandemic. Unfortunately there’s just not anything in there about what would happen in the event the venue had to cancel.

Hi Shaina,

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this stress, and I know the uncertainty is causing additional fear and worry. You are definitely not alone.

You mentioned your venue is still collecting payments. Are they closed right now, I assume? Do you know when they plan to reopen? Have you asked about your options to reschedule if it comes to that in October (or sooner)? Would your deposit transfer to a 2021 date, and/or can you place a soft hold on a Plan B date in 2021 for peace of mind?

There are many resources on our website that may be helpful as you navigate the planning process: Our COVID-19 Weddings Advice Guide. You'll find articles like this one: What to Do About Your Wedding During the Coronavirus Pandemic.

And here's a discussion with other brides re: Wedding(s) October 2020.

Good luck!