Calling off a wedding is tremendously stressful. The emotional toll alone is enough to justify this claim. So we hope that you will never need to know how to go about it. However, with the spread of coronavirus, many couples are deciding that cancelling the wedding is the best way to go.

If you decide that you’re cancelling, instead of postponing, you have to consider how many people that will affect. Vendors, guests, family and so on will all be affected by this change of plan. Of course, the wedding is and has always been about you, but these people have made arrangements for you and it’s best to keep this in mind while going about the cancellation process.

Here’s how you should handle it:

– Check your insurance 

If you have wedding insurance, your insurer should be the first call you make. Financially, this will help a lot.

– Cancellation policies

First and foremost, you should reread all contracts with each vendor. This will give you an idea of where you stand. In most cases, deposits are non-refundable, however you may be able to get some money back. Suppliers generally try to be accommodating, depending on timing and circumstances of course.

– Make contact 

After you’ve gone through the contracts, inform all your vendors and suppliers that the wedding has been cancelled. Suppliers online have claimed that some couples essentially just ghost. This is not acceptable. Apart from this being disrespectful, it also affects the livelihoods of vendors.

– Guests

Let your guests know. Be sure to prioritise those who are travelling long distances to be at your wedding, so that they have time to cancel their flights and possibly get a refund. People have spent money to ensure they’re present on your special day, don’t forget that.

Don’t forget to let you bridal party know too! (And thank them for anything they’ve done thus far)

– Be honest

It’s always best to keep things simple and just be upfront about the circumstances. This goes for every conversation you’ll have about your wedding cancellation, but especially in conversations with your vendors. People appreciate honesty.

– Be quick 

We know its a tough time, and you’re probably very disappointed, but acting quickly will benefit you in the end. It increases the likelihood of getting money back and will place less strain on guests and vendors.

 

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