I empathise with anyone going through this right now, you’ve dreamed and planned your big day for months (or even years!) only to have it taken away from you. Here are my 5 top tips for dealing with the practicalities of postponing your wedding and helping you emotionally pick yourself back up again!
1. Postpone don't cancel.
Wedding suppliers still want your business. Lots of us are happy to roll over your booking fees and/or final balances to your new date (availability dependant). By cancelling you will probably lose your booking fee at the least and possibly have to pay for other costs incurred by the supplier or even the full balance. Make a list of your suppliers and work through contacting them methodically.
2. Consult your suppliers before choosing a new wedding date.
What with lots of 2020 wedding couples postponing and lots of 2021 couples planning ahead, there is going to be a lot for demand for next summer's weekend wedding slots. Contact suppliers early (all of them – not just the venue!) and don't send out new save the dates before checking your suppliers are available!
If you can be flexible about your new date that will help too. Suppliers already booked for your date? Opting for a midweek or off-peak date will help your suppliers fit you all in!
3. Allow yourself to feel how you feel.
It's okay to be disappointed, upset or angry right now. You're not silly or selfish to feel this way. Like with any loss, accepting your feelings is the first step. Speak to your partner and people you love and let them know if there is anything they can do to help. It might not be this year, but you're still loved and can still have your dream wedding.
4. Check out free online resources.
Social media is full of suppliers offering free resources to make postponing your wedding as stress-free as possible. Have a browse for everything from practical and legal advice to free printable postponement card designs.
5. Do something special on your would-be wedding day!
A romantic meal with your loved one, a specially baked cake or even wearing your wedding outfit around the house! Do whatever you can to pick yourself up and start looking forward to your new wedding date.
If you've got any tips of your own to help your fellow brides and grooms to be, just let me know! I'd love to hear from you.
