COVID-19 WEDDING PLANNING

We’re finally getting closer to less Covid-19 related lockdowns, but where do we stand with large, social gatherings?

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Here are the most pressing questions brides and grooms are asking themselves: 

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Do I need to reschedule my wedding?
In light of the federal mandate, the CDC cites that significant events such as weddings and other social gatherings can contribute to the spread of the virus. If you still want a large gathering you will want to plan it for later next year. If you really want a big wedding now, you will need to find a private residence to host your event. If you are comfortable with a small gathering, public parks and museums can still be an option, although you will be extremely limited on guest count according to public laws. Always check with Miami-Dade Parks and Recreation to see the latest info.

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When should I reschedule for? 
While I don’t have a crystal ball to see into the future, I would bet that October or November time is your safest bet. Late summer could still be questionable, says Liz Ryan, Founder of Orange + Rose Events

Do I postpone or cancel?
I don’t recommend cancelling. Why? Because you will lose your deposits which can account for as much as 50% of your budget. That’s money out of pocket that you won’t get back. Instead, look to reschedule to a date that is mutually convenient for you and your vendors. Obviously, the further in advance you book, and the more distant your date, the greater the probability you will be able to re-secure as much of your vendor team as possible, thus, minimizing any budget loss. 

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Now that we’ve decided to postpone or re-schedule, how do I notify my guests?
“Time is of the essence, send out a quick text, email or even call to let them know the event is postponed or has been rescheduled with a new date,” says Elle Becerra from Events by Elle. “You can also try sending a formal card to everyone’s houses with the new date.”

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My wedding is 2 months from now, do I need to reschedule my wedding? 
“At this point, no one truly knows just how long it will take for Coronavirus to shake out.” Liz Ryan of Orange + Rose Events comments, “Get in touch with your vendor team and your venue to see what’s possible as a backup plan. Choose 2 to 3 dates to ensure you have the greatest chance to source a date that is mutually agreeable for everyone.

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What if I can’t secure a new date that works for me and my vendors?
Typically, wedding vendors are booked months in advance, so changing your wedding date at the last minute can be tricky. Andi Dyal of Andi Soirees weighs in, “Opening your mind to a Friday nuptial might just be the tric; I recently had someone ask me about a Thursday wedding, and even a Monday wedding.”

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We've heard a lot about rescheduling fees…tell me more
Rescheduling fees are vendor determined. While it varies from vendor to vendor, Rescheduling fees are often equivalent to a new deposit. Reach out, or, have your planner reach out directly to each vendor to see what their policy is. 

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Will my photographer add in a Covid-19 contract clause? 
Again, this depends on the photographer. As a general rule of thumb, it's important to maintain open lines of communication with your wedding photographer. Reach out with an email or call and see what their policy might be, or, if they are open to adding such verbiage to your contract. "Our vendors have been open to incorporating new clauses regarding Covid-19, so that they can protect themselves, their clients and the event" says Adriana Cadet from The Creative's Loft.

I'm recently engaged and plan on getting married in the latter half of 2021, I'd love to start the planning process, what should I expect?
“It's absolutely not too soon to start the planning process,” says Jessica Masi of Masi Events. “We would suggest starting by compiling your guest list, gathering addresses and emails as well as gathering inspiration photos and interviewing wedding planners. This is a great time to get a trusted planner on board so you can make good and confident decisions."

 

Adriana Cadet from The Creative’s Loft further elaborates, "Honestly, we’ve had a really positive experience with all the industry vendors and partners since Covid-19 started. In the majority of the companies that we're working with, they've been very, very flexible and open to offer lower initial deposits, as well as helping couples incorporate new Covid-19-related clauses, so that they can protect their event."

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Will your wedding dress be impacted?
This depends. Many designers and boutiques source fabrics from China. And due to quarantines in some regions, many manufacturers and shops have halted production for weeks. It's a case-to-case basis with some brands profoundly harmed by the coronavirus, while others aren't impacted at all as their production and resources come from other countries unaffected by the virus. 

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The best possible way is to speak directly with your retailer or your designer. 

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What do you do if there's a definite delay in your gown's delivery, and you need it very soon?
In this case, we recommend looking into possible alternatives. First, talk to your shop and the designer directly. If you're concerned that it won't work out, then you might want to look into an off-the-rack or even a second-hand re-selling site such as Nearly Newlywed.