Resuming Weddings: What's Next For Nuptials?

The COVID-19 pandemic put a hold on many wedding plans, with venues reporting that they are usually busy at the start of the wedding season in April, but now they are empty. For many couples, wedding plans were put on hold or postponed until 2021 or beyond. Now, as the world settles into a new normal, couples are asking: can weddings resume?

Wedding industry financial losses

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the wedding industry, causing significant financial losses and disruptions. With restrictions on gatherings and social distancing measures in place, many weddings were postponed or cancelled, resulting in revenue losses for venues, vendors, and related businesses.

The wedding industry is a substantial economic sector, generating an average of $74 billion annually in the US alone, according to IBIS World. The pandemic has severely affected this industry, with venues reporting a sharp decline in business. For instance, Michael Yatvin, the owner of Elmwood Gardens by Provence in Texas, shared that they usually host two to three weddings per weekend during the season but had to postpone all events to the fall of 2020.

The impact of these postponements and cancellations rippled through the industry, affecting caterers, photographers, florists, wedding planners, and other vendors. Many small businesses and sole proprietorships in the wedding industry faced significant financial challenges, with some even filing for bankruptcy. Couples who had planned their weddings also incurred losses, especially if they had already made deposits or payments to vendors.

To mitigate these financial losses, some couples opted for virtual or hybrid weddings, which presented new opportunities for the industry to adapt and innovate. Wedding insurance also became increasingly important, with couples seeking coverage for unforeseen circumstances, including cancellations or postponements due to COVID-19. The demand for wedding insurance grew, and insurers responded by offering novel coverage types, such as specific conditions related to the pandemic.

As restrictions eased and weddings gradually resumed, the industry experienced a period of adjustment. Couples had to navigate reduced guest lists and adhere to safety protocols, while vendors and venues adapted their services to comply with health guidelines. Despite these challenges, there was a sense of optimism as the industry worked towards recovery, with some destinations, such as India, anticipating an increase in weddings and associated tourism.

Postponing weddings

Postponing a wedding is never an easy decision, but it can be the right choice in uncertain times. Here are some considerations and steps to take if you're thinking about postponing your wedding:

Timing is Key

It is essential to make a timely decision when it comes to postponing a wedding. Wedding planner Julianne Young advises making this decision 60 to 90 days before the wedding to allow enough time to "pivot" with vendors and avoid losing final deposits. This timeframe also ensures you can make an informed choice with the most up-to-date information.

Communicate with Core Vendors

Once you've decided to postpone, reach out to your core vendors, including the venue, photographer, videographer, and officiant. Be open to discussing new dates and giving them a heads-up about your plans. It's essential to review your contracts with these vendors and understand the termination and cancellation policies, as well as payment schedules. Most deposits are non-refundable, so postponing instead of canceling can help you avoid financial losses.

Understand Rescheduling Fees

When rescheduling, there are typically very few additional fees associated with most vendors. However, it's crucial to decide on a new date before vendors make purchases for your event. For example, florists may charge a fee if they have already bought flowers for your original date. Aim to find a date that works for all your essential vendors to avoid losing deposits.

Celebrate Anyway

Even if your wedding is postponed, you can still mark the original date in special ways. Plan a small celebration at home with your partner, dress up, and make it feel memorable. Order dinner and wine, exchange gifts or letters, or find other ways to make the day feel unique and enjoyable.

Lean on Your Support System

Postponing a wedding can be emotionally challenging, so it's crucial to lean on your support system. Family and friends can provide valuable assistance and perspective during this time. Consider enlisting the help of a wedding planner as well, who can offer guidance and support throughout the postponement process. Stay connected and communicate your feelings to process the disappointment and grief that comes with postponement.

Focus on the Positive

While it's natural to feel sad or stressed about postponing your wedding, try to shift your focus to the positive aspects. Embrace the extra time to plan and create new memories with your partner. Your wedding day will happen, and it will be even more special, memorable, and emotional when it does.

Resuming wedding planning

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the wedding industry, with many couples having to postpone their wedding plans or settle for more low-key celebrations. As the world gradually recovers from the pandemic, many couples are eager to resume their wedding planning and finally celebrate their special day with loved ones. Here are some tips to help you get started on resuming your wedding planning:

Review and Adjust Your Plans

The first step is to review your original wedding plans and make any necessary adjustments. Consider what aspects of your initial plans are still feasible and what might need to change. Be open to flexibility, especially when it comes to dates, venues, and the number of guests. Many couples have had to postpone their weddings, leading to a high demand for venues and vendors in 2021.

Establish Your Budget

It is crucial to establish a clear budget and be prepared to discuss payment plans, options, and bespoke wedding planning services. Creating a budget will help you make informed decisions and ensure you don't overspend. It is also important to carefully review the terms and conditions of your wedding professionals and don't be afraid to ask questions.

Utilize Virtual Tools

Take advantage of virtual tools and technologies to stay connected with your wedding party, vendors, and venues. Arrange virtual calls to discuss plans and explore options. Many venues now offer virtual tours, which can be a great way to explore options from the comfort of your home.

Be Creative with Dates and Venues

Consider alternative dates and venues if your original choices are no longer available. Discuss the possibility of an autumn or winter wedding, or even a mid-week wedding. With high demand and limited availability, you may need to be flexible and creative to secure your preferred venue.

Connect with Vendors on Social Media

Use social media platforms to connect with vendors, including wedding planners, photographers, caterers, and florists. This will help you gain a better understanding of their work, style, and outlook. It can also be a great way to discover new vendors and make informed choices.

Stay Informed about Local Guidelines

Finally, remember to stay informed about local guidelines and restrictions regarding weddings and events. These guidelines can vary by location and may change over time, so it's important to stay updated to ensure your plans comply with the latest safety measures.

Wedding venues

For couples, this meant wedding plans came to a halt, with many having to postpone their big day until later in the year or beyond. For those in the wedding industry, it meant a period of uncertainty.

However, as the world has adapted to a new normal, the wedding industry has also had to evolve. Wedding venues have had to implement new measures to ensure the safety of couples and their guests. This has included reducing capacity and allowing fewer guests, spacing out tables, and, in some cases, moving weddings outdoors.

For couples who are ready to tie the knot, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to wedding venues. Firstly, be prepared to be flexible. With so many weddings postponed, your dream venue may not be available on your desired date. Consider a mid-week wedding or opt for an autumn or winter celebration.

If you're set on a Saturday summer wedding, it's essential to start planning early and be prepared to be added to a waiting list. You may also need to consider alternative venues or locations. Many wedding venues now offer virtual tours, so you can explore different options from the comfort of your own home.

When it comes to the all-important guest list, it's important to be mindful of the venue's capacity and any restrictions they may have in place. You may need to limit your guest list to ensure you can maintain social distancing. It's also worth considering the travel requirements for your guests and whether this could impact their ability to attend.

Finally, keep an open line of communication with your venue of choice. The situation is constantly evolving, and venues are having to adapt to changing guidelines and restrictions. Regular check-ins will ensure that you're up to date with any changes and give you the opportunity to ask any questions or voice any concerns.

While the wedding industry has been greatly impacted by the pandemic, many venues and couples have shown resilience and adaptability in the face of these challenges.

Wedding ceremonies and receptions

As the world begins to reopen, many couples are eager to resume their wedding planning and hold the ceremonies and receptions they had initially envisioned. Here are some guidelines and suggestions to consider for wedding ceremonies and receptions:

• Review and adjust plans: Couples may need to review their plans and make adjustments to align with the current situation. This could include changes to the guest list, venue, or date to ensure compliance with local guidelines and restrictions.
• Guest list and safety: Creating a guest list that adheres to local guidelines for gathering sizes is essential. Couples should consider the space available at their venue to ensure safe distancing between guests. It is also important to communicate safety protocols and guidelines to guests in advance, such as mask requirements or other precautions.
• Venue and capacity: Choosing a venue that can accommodate the guest list while maintaining safety measures is crucial. Couples may need to be flexible and consider alternative venues or outdoor spaces to allow for proper distancing.
• Timing and scheduling: To comply with local guidelines, couples may need to adjust the timing of their ceremony and reception. This could include staggering guest arrival times, limiting the duration of the event, or scheduling activities to avoid overcrowding.
• Food and beverage service: Catering services and food presentation should be adapted to minimize contact and reduce the risk of transmission. This may involve opting for individually packaged meals, designated serving staff, or pre-plated dishes instead of buffets.
• Entertainment and activities: Live entertainment, such as bands or DJs, can still be included, but it is important to ensure they have sufficient space and can perform safely. Couples may also consider incorporating outdoor activities or games to provide a safer environment for guests to mingle and interact.
• Travel and accommodation: For destination weddings or weddings with guests travelling from afar, providing clear guidance and safety measures for travel and accommodation is essential. This could include recommending or arranging transportation options that allow for social distancing and suggesting accommodations that adhere to local health guidelines.
• Communication and updates: It is crucial to maintain open and transparent communication with guests, wedding party members, and vendors. Couples should provide timely updates on any changes to the wedding plans and clearly communicate safety protocols to be followed.

While the pandemic has caused disruptions, couples can still create memorable wedding ceremonies and receptions by being adaptable and prioritizing the safety and well-being of their guests.

Frequently asked questions