Wedding Cancellation
There can be lots of reasons for a wedding cancellation 
: sick relatives, problems with the marquee, transportation mishaps, or a change of heart. Let's face it, with so many arrangements and people involved, a wedding always has the potential to go awry. While all the planning can be a lot of work, all of the de-planning can be even worse. Just so you don't forget anything, here's a guide of what needs to be cancelled and even some financial options, like insurance, to prevent future incidents.
Also, you might want to set up an arrangement with your partner before taking any of these steps, just so you know how the costs will be divided between the both of you.
Step 1: Let the guests know
This may sound like a daunting task, but in most cases, it is very similar to writing invitations, which you have already done. This site offers templates for cancellation or wedding postponement letters to be sent out to all guests.
Step 2: Venue
The church or banquet hall you choose to get married in is another big item to consider when making a cancellation. The sooner you cancel this, the better. Each venue has different agreements and contracts, so it is subjective how much money you will get back.
Step 3: Food, decoration, etc.
When you ask for a refund (or whatever you are able to get) from your wedding caterer, florist, wedding photographer, or wedding DJ, they will probably refer back to whatever contract you signed with them when first booking their services. You will most likely lose your deposit, but see if you are able to negotiate getting back the best possible refund. It always helps if you read the fine print on these contracts in the beginning, so you know what you are getting into.
Step 4: Personal Items
- Wedding Ring : There are various types of etiquette that can be used here. According to this site, if the man decides to cancel the wedding, the woman can either keep the ring and sell it if she wants, or she can give it back. If the situation is reversed, the woman is obligated to return the ring. If it's a mutual cancellation, then the decision should be made by both partners.
- Wedding Presents : Typically it's in good form to return any wedding presents that have been given to the couple at this point.
- Wedding Dress : One of the biggest purchases made for your wedding day. If you decide to sell it, consider selling it back to the same place you bought it from--they may be understanding and give you a substantial refund.
Step 5: The Future
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Wedding Insurance : Many insurance companies now give you plan options in case your wedding or civil partnership suffers a cancellation. However, there are stipulations: if a wedding is cancelled due to issues with the marquee or faulty transportation, insurance will help the party make other arrangements. Also, when things like wedding pictures are found to be damaged after the ceremony, insurance can guarantee the couple some retribution for these incidents. Insurance can even extend to members of the wedding party that suffer loss or damage of property. |
Healing : Sure, this is a major setback, but no matter what your situation, as with all things in life, you have to keep going. After you've gone through the hassle of steps 1-4, take some time for yourself to spend with friends and family. The support of your loved ones will play a major role in helping you get through this ordeal. Take some days off, or if you are unable to do that, take a holiday weekend. Spas, massages, and chocolates are also great therapy. |
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