2020... to book, or not to book?

I guess it depends on a) what terms you can get - e.g. if Covid will restrict but not cancel weddings, can you reschedule and b) how set you are on having your wedding a certain way - e.g. what changes would you be willing to make to guest numbers/wedding format and duration to enable it to happen in December.

You can have a great celebration even in limited circumstances (we got married straight after the wedding ban lifted and it was a beautiful experience) but if you want the full works, you either need a very flexible contract or to look at booking further into the future.

I’d be extremely cautious booking anything right now, never mind a wedding.

1. Even if you get a great deal, you might well find that the rules change again, altering your plans to such an extent that it spoils your day. (They changed again this morning).

2. Other considerations include whether or not your loved ones would be able to attend, particularly if you have elderly/vulnerable people to invite. Even then, some people may still decline anyway as they are concerned about this damn virus.

I have asthma and diabetes, we should have been getting married three weeks today, but have postponed for 12 months. Not sure we’ve postponed by long enough, now. I personally wouldn’t be accepting any invitations to any gathering until this virus is under control and we have an effective vaccine.

3. You won’t be able to obtain wedding insurance, and this could be a big deal. Most venues will not let you book without it., as it covers damage (accidental or otherwise!) to their premises by you or your guests.

You also need it for your own peace of mind, what if a supplier goes bust, doesn’t deliver their contractual obligations, there’s a dress disaster, cake catastrophe, etc. etc?

Sorry if you or others think I am raining on your parade, but a wedding is a big financial and emotional commitment, please think hard and long before parting with your hard earned money. I’m a former National Trust Wedding Coordinator, and I have seen so many couples get swept up in the emotional side of planning a wedding before their heads can catch up.

At the end of the day, the decision is down to you and your partner, but the fact that you have posted on here looking for advice tells me that you are already in two minds, otherwise you would have already booked. I love a bargain, but Caveat Emptor (buyer beware) here! Just because it is cheap, doesn’t mean it’s inexpensive in the long run!

If you do go ahead, please, please, please check the ,details of the contract with a fine tooth comb, then go over it again, then ask someone else you trust to go over it. Make sure you clarify all and any points, particularly in relation to postponing, cancellation, curtailing or downsizing your wedding.

Would love to know the name of your venue, by the way!

Hope this helps

Ali xx