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 fiancé and I are about three months out from our wedding. With coronavirus-related festival and event cancellations all over the news, we are starting to worry about the possibility of our wedding being caught in the fallout. We’ve of course already sent out save the dates, but what if once we send invitations, most of our friends and family can’t attend due to travel restrictions or health concerns? What if our church or venue has to shut down or postpone our event? What if we have to cancel our wedding due to the coronavirus?
Answer: It’s valid, particularly during the beginning stages of a global health event, to have these questions. Double check the force majeure clause of your vendor contracts (Force majeure removes liability for natural and unavoidable catastrophes.) This includes the contract with your church and venue, as well as with all of your vendors. Be specific not only regarding acts of nature, such as hurricanes, but also when it comes to the possibility of a pandemic. Gather the information so you know where you stand financially and when it comes to postponement versus cancelation. If the worst happens and you have to cancel, you’ll want to let your guests know as soon as possible. This can be done via mail, phone, text or email — whichever works best. All of that being said, I once read that anxiety lives in the future. Once you’ve gathered the information you need “just in case” set that aside and focus on the present.
Do you have a solution to share or a wedding etiquette question? Respond in the comments or email Melanie@MyNewOrleans.com.
