There are lots of reasons why you might have to postpone your event — especially now. In 2020, the global pandemic forced a record number of changes, yet personal reasons and even natural disasters, such as tornadoes or floods, can push off your special day.
It’s extremely disappointing to have to delay an event, especially when it’s out of your control. First and foremost, it’s perfectly normal and 100 percent OK to be upset. Be honest with yourself, and then talk to a friend or family member about your feelings. A lot of effort — physical, emotional and financial — goes into picking the perfect date, finding the perfect venue, creating the perfect invitations and personalizing the perfect wedding decor. Good, caring vendors will completely understand and validate your grief over the unexpected changes.
Photo by David Kleinot Photography
Take a breath… You’ve got this! We asked the experts at Robert Ryan Catering & Design for the inside scoop on the best way to postpone and reschedule. Here’s what they said:
Start Here
• Dig out your contracts. There may be some financial repercussions for moving your date, and sometimes that depends on the reason. Look for clauses about a loss of your deposit and/or additional fees for changes. Then discuss that with your vendors.• If you have wedding insurance, reach out to your agent before you engage the venue.• Choose several new dates, then consult with those nearest and dearest to you to make sure they’re available. Remember to consider “off date,” if possible. You may find more availability on Friday, Sunday or even a weekday.• Reach out to your vendors and begin discussions: venue, caterer, photographer, DJ/band, florist, etc.• Determine and book the new date!
Photo by Mason Photography
Spread the Word
• Share the news quickly, especially if you’ve already sent out save-the-dates or invitations. It’s best to call, text and/or email with the new date and updates.• If there’s enough time between the reschedule and the new date then a “change-the-date” will work.• Feeling overwhelmed? If this task is too daunting, then enlist your wedding party and family to help. They will be more than happy to help!
Celebrate!
• It’s perfectly OK to honor your original date with a “minimony” (a commitment ceremony) on Zoom or another video platform, a micro wedding (during Covid-19, with appropriate face coverings and physical distancing), or a special dinner with your better-half-to-be. This marks your intended date in a memorable and meaningful way, and that can help with healing.
Photo by Martin Reardon Photography
A Final Note on Flexibility
It bears repeating: Flexibility is the key to making a postponement work smoothly. As much as possible, be open to different dates, time of year, location alternatives, guests’ availability, decor, etc. It may not be exactly the day you envisioned, but it’s going to happen, and it’s going to be beautiful… Believe it!We know 2020 has been stressful. The Robert Ryan Catering & Design team is here for you to help you put your special event plans into motion when the time is right. We’re in this together!Schedule a consultation with one of our event managers when you’re ready to find your place or to reschedule your special event. Did you know anevent at home might be an option?
Robert Ryan Catering & Design plans and executes over 400 events each year, boasts a five-star rating on WeddingWire and has received WeddingWire’s Couples’ Choice/Bride’s Choice Award seven years in a row. Learn more about Robert Ryan Catering & Design and tour our venues. Subscribe to our e-newsletter for exclusive offers, up-to-date news, and recipes from our executive chef.
Featured photo by Annie Sharp Photography
