Photo Credit: Google
Sometimes a change of wedding date is inevitable.
Let’s take an example of when the electoral commission in Nigeria, postponed the election. Every wedding on that new date was automatically cancelled.
It might not even be as urgent as that, but most times when the date needs to be changed, it’s usually because of reason beyond your control.
It could be birth or death in the family; it could be loss of a job or a new surprising one that needs your urgent attention, it could be as a result of some form of natural disaster in that a country (for destination weddings), and the likes.
Although it can be devasting for both the couple and their guests, if approached in an organised manner, you should still be able to flow perfectly well.
Here are some tips to help to make the change as easy as it can be.
1. Decide on a new date and location when you announce the change
This will help your guests, and even vendors quickly work with their schedule to be able to make changes where necessary. If it were a destination wedding, they would be able to change their tickets for a small fee.
2. Try to stick to the same vendors
Except of course if they caused the delay. If not, working with the same vendor will mean they will be willing to work with you for little or no extra charge and details needed.
3. A realistic expectation of guests’ turnout
You have to understand and expect that some guests who had initially committed to coming when you first announced the date, might be unable to make the new date.
You will lose some a few people who either can’t get the new time off work, can’t afford a new airfare, already have plans for that day, and so on.
4. Be flexible to add new people to your wedding party
So, it’s not just the guests that might not be able to make it; some of your bridal party too might be unable to attend. Make sure you ASK your bridesmaids and groomsmen if they will do you the honour, again, rather than just expecting them to rearrange their lives.
Surely, those who can be there won't let you down. But you must be careful not to put unreasonable expectations on them.
5. Don’t be tempted to invite more guests you didn’t want the first time
It is easy to think people will not turn out, or perhaps you want to make sure the venue still gets filled up, but don’t.
They'll wonder why they weren't good enough to get an invite the first time.
Best of luck!