Pandemic Wedding Planning Questions ANSWERED | Austin TX Wedding Planner

Hello love birds!

Can we all just agree that 2020 is basically a dumpster fire?? Political upheaval, a pandemic, killer insects, it's like Exodus in here! Being a bride right now might feel like a nightmare especially if you do not have a wedding planner. Well, as usual, I'm here to lighten that load for you a little. I asked my email list to send me their COVID wedding planning questions and they did not disappoint! So let's get down to business:

Is it okay to have a wedding right now?

That's the million-dollar question isn't it? You're not going to like my answer but it's true: it depends. I know I know. But let's narrow this question down a bit. How many people are you having at your wedding? Less than 80? Are any of them elderly or pregnant? No? I would say YES have your wedding. See our blog on tips for a safe COVID wedding written after successfully executing a wedding in June 2020.

Now if you answered differently to either of those questions I would proceed with caution. ESPECIALLY in Texas. How will your guests feel? Do you get a pit in your stomach when you think about it? Then your guests will probably be uncomfortable as well. Postpone it or shrink it. You don't want that emotion to be what you remember when looking at your photos.

What can we do about vendors who won't let us postpone for free?

First, I am not a lawyer and all of this depends on your contact. Second, now that we've been through the first lockdown, most vendors and venues have adjusted contracts to protect their cash flow and save their businesses. We are so fortunate to have such amazing clients that we haven't suffered even one cancellation. But others had to close the doors on their business. They won't be caught unawares again. Third, I would expect most vendors to allow you to change your date with a fee and a new deposit until about six months out. However, if the contract states that there are no date changes or that you need a new contract to do so and you signed, that's legally binding. The answer then is there's nothing you can do. You will be bound to those terms. Ask about discounts if you postpone to a Friday or Sunday instead.

What about my honeymoon?

Other countries don't want us right now. So if you planned an international honeymoon, get started moving that NOW. Excellent alternatives are Hill Country Inns, lodges, and B&Bs. Pick somewhere close to scenic eateries or with delivery food available. Hire a private chef. Rent a houseboat on Lake Travis. Do something in the open air like visit a state park and enjoy dreamy sunsets and gorgeous hikes. Enjoy each other until flights are safe again. You can also road trip somewhere scenic but check state regulations so that you're not pulled over by state troopers telling you to go home.

Can't I just get wedding insurance to cover me if I need to change plans?

No. Wedding Insurance companies have included language to prevent its use in these situations. Most companies have stopped selling cancellation policies altogether.

Should I even bother booking ANYTHING?

If you want to get married before 2022 YES. Dates are MOVING. We are already booked solid for a few months next year and getting double inquiries for popular dates. Venues will be full if you wait. Get inspired with our blog on wedding design here! We also have a fun style quiz and plenty of idea starters on our Instagram.

This is a lot to take in, we know! But we're always here for you. Drop a comment with your questions and we will get to you personally. You can also drop us a line here anytime. And if you are ready to chat and tired of trying to figure this on your own, then go ahead and fill out or contact form here so we can call you!

Photo from our last wedding by the wonderful Misty McLendon Photography