
Planning a wedding in itself isn’t easy but to then have to do the unthinkable and re-arrange it, can feel like it’s turning into a nightmare. But if you are one of the thousands of couples who have had to postpone your special day due to the Coronavirus then just remember, you aren’t alone. Your family, friends, suppliers and venues all want to support you and get you through this difficult time.
Yes, it’s upsetting and so disappointing when you have put all that time and effort into the planning to find that things have to be changed. Those with March and early April weddings haven’t had long to make the decision so it feels particularly hard as the last few weeks in the lead up to the wedding should be full of excitement and joy. We have to try and look for the positives right now and remember that you will get your big day but now you have a bit more time, you can definitely make it worth the wait! It’s always better to postpone, rather than cancel.
By postponing you are keeping everyone safe, you don’t have to worry that people won’t be able to make it for fear of their health and you won’t be restricted on your number of guests. When this is all over people will be so grateful to see everyone, celebrating with you will mean even more!
Read on for practical ideas on postponing
- When you’ve spoken with your venue for a new date, check with your main bridal party, in particular those you couldn’t imagine not having at your wedding. Get in touch with all your suppliers to see if they are available. Don’t delay in getting in touch with your suppliers because there are lots of couples re-arranging so dates could be booking up quickly. I’ve had a few couples move from spring weddings to winter weddings.

- Check with your wedding insurance provider as to what you are covered against, especially if some suppliers are unable to re-arrange and you’ve paid deposits.
- If the season or the particular date of your wedding is important to you then consider postponing until 2021. I know it sounds a long way away but it really does come round quick. You will be more in control with less uncertainty that it will go ahead, your colour scheme and dress will still be ok for the time of year. Plus it will also give you extra time to save – does that open up the budget a bit more for something you really wanted, a chance to upgrade your menu or book the entertainer you had your eye on? The gift of time may also allow you to add the extra touches if you felt you were running out of time!
- Considering a weekday wedding may open up the possibility of dates being available and possibly be cheaper.
When re-arranging, choose a date far enough in the future that will give you the chance to enjoy the build-up of the last few weeks before your wedding.
- Let your guests know your decision to postpone as soon as possible, an email should suffice but it may be worth a phone call to those who won’t look at their emails. Delegate someone in your wedding party so send emails or make calls for you if it’s too difficult right now. You could contact them personally a couple of days later. Be kind and give yourself some time out – don’t read emails for a couple of days if it’s too raw and painful.
- When you’ve got your new date you might want to send ‘re-save the date’ cards. They don’t have to cost a lot and you can either use a template and send it electronically or get them printed. Make it light-hearted and keep your guests excited about your day!
- Make sure you mark your original wedding date by doing something special. If we’re still in lockdown why not Facetime your wedding party, bake a cake in the flavours of your wedding cake or write your wedding vows ready for your new date. You could get dressed up so you feel special, cook a nice meal and have your first dance (or at least practice!).

- If you’re changing from a Spring to a Winter wedding, just add fairy lights and candles!!
For your dress, could you add sleeves? Wear a cape or bolero. Even a leather jacket or embroidered denim jacket. Your bridesmaids could keep warm with a pashmina or stole.
If your legs are covered by your dress you could wear tights for warmth.
Instead of a sweetie table, offer a hot chocolate bar with different toppings!
Add sequins to your tables or your decor as they will sparkle and reflect the light for a romantic ambience.
Pale blues could be turned into icy blue and teamed with silver.
Grooms look great in dark coloured suits, possibly tweed or something textured like velvet.
Use lockdown wisely
- Get on with some wedmin and tick some things off your to-do list. Update your wedding website so your guests are in the loop.
You may need to start new Pinterest boards especially if your season has changed. If you are too far into your planning, or your budget won’t allow you to change elements – Don’t… Stick with the colours and themes you have, you chose them for a reason and that’s your style. Not everything has to match – the important thing is that you get to marry your partner, surrounded by your loved ones, the day you have been waiting for!
- Other fun ideas for wedding planning in lockdown – practice your first dance/create a routine! Write an ice breaker quiz for your wedding tables or something to entertain them like a photo scavenger hunt.
Sort your wedding morning ‘getting ready’ playlist or create a list of your favourite party songs for your evening do.
Why not try a new skill – maybe learn calligraphy to make your wedding signs or address envelopes.
You could even use the time to write a letter to give to your hubby-to-be on your wedding morning.
Maybe turn your hand to a bit of wedding DIY for your favours or place cards, get creative!
There’s no reason you can’t continue to plan with your bride tribe – have virtual planning meetings with a glass of fizz in hand of course (no-one is driving!!).
Contact suppliers to finalise details – most suppliers will be small businesses that will have a bit more time right now to help and will be glad to support you.
Above all, remember the reason you are getting married and that after all this, you still have each other and you will have your special day.
It will be worth waiting for!
Rebecca xx