Each Wednesday, we tackle wedding etiquette. At times, it’s a reader question or one from a colleague, friend or family member and other times we’ll cover a popular issue. (Note: Questions may be edited for clarity and brevity.)
Question: My friend was scheduled to get married at the end of April but had to postpone the wedding due to the coronavirus crisis. It’s of course terrible and everyone in our friend group is trying to do whatever we can to be supportive to the couple. They haven’t yet set a new date, so we are still waiting to hear about that part, but some of us have already sent gifts, while have gifts they haven’t sent and then a few of us were planning to buy gifts closer to the wedding. What do we do about gifts for a wedding postponed due to COVID?
Answer: It’s great that you are all being supportive of the couple. Especially amid so much uncertainty. When it comes to gifts, for now, just proceed as if the wedding is still happening — since that’s the plan. Those who already shipped gifts are all set. For anyone who purchased a gift, it might be best to hang onto it until the rescheduled date is announced. Sending it now might be an upsetting reminder until the new date is on the books. Guests who haven’t yet purchased a gift can wait until the new date is confirmed. Note however that many retailers are closed or have moved online and it might take a little longer than usual for deliveries. When the new date is set, plan as far ahead as you can on the gift so you aren’t caught empty handed due to low stock or slow mail.
Do you have a solution to share or a wedding etiquette question? Respond in the comments or email Melanie@MyNewOrleans.com.
