Plan, Plan and then Plan Some More
What is something that no couple wants to use, but every couple should have? One answer – a Plan B. It’s like that old saying goes, hope for the best but plan for the worst. While you might not have to jump to your plan B, you will be so thankful that you have one just in case. In the beautiful world of weddings, we have watched it all happen and know how important it is to have a that second plan ready to go - JUST in case.
We know how excited you are for your wedding day to finally be just around the corner! But what do you do when you look at the forecast and there is some crazy weather coming that day, or a major emergency happens, or even a global pandemic hits?! These are just some of the ‘what ifs’ you need to think about when you start planning your wedding. As important as it is to have a backup plan, sometimes planning for the unexpected can be super difficult.
Plan Ahead
When we say we have seen it all, we really mean it – this even includes a tornado warning or two! Whether you are doing the planning yourself or have hired a wedding coordinator to help out, creating a plan B is so important! While small changes can be made on the spot, large ones cannot be improvised in just an hour or two. This is especially true if your whole wedding, or even a part of it, are being hosted outside.
Do some serious research and make sure to talk to all your vendors about creating a plan B. Ask your venue about a second location option. If you’re hosting on a private property and plan to do a completely tented wedding, make sure to inquire about insurance and, if possible see if you can find a safe (and dry) spot inside your property to fit your guests.
Double (and even triple) check with all your vendors - from the DJ, to the decorator, the limousine driver and photographer – that they have a trusted replacement on standby for your booked date. Try your hardest to get this included in any contracts you sign as well!
It is also important to listen to your vendors and be open to their suggestions too. Remember that you are all on the same team, with one goal - to execute the most unforgettable day for you and your partner! By being open with them, you can totally create a perfect backup plan.
Plan B: Not just for the weather
Plan B is not just for the unpredictable weather these days. While that is still a huge reason to have a backup plan, there are other circumstances you need to consider as well. Kind of like a global pandemic!? Honestly, we never thought that was something we would have to say… and then 2020 happened.
If you are just starting to plan your wedding, or have it planned for later this year, we cannot stress enough how important it is to have a plan B ready. Sadly, we are seeing more couples postponing than actually getting married at the moment – even in what is normally the busiest wedding season!
So if you’re in this position you need to seriously consider the possibility that your dream day might not happen on the original date (and that’s OK! We promise!). Once again, talk to all your vendors! Have a second, and possibly much later, date in mind. Create a list of a few back-up vendors that you love, just in case your first choice is already booked on your new date. Be sure to keep up with government guidelines and the ever changing regulations so you can plan accordingly.
A few suggestions we have for couples who had 2020 weddings planned:
Plan a small intimate ceremony once restrictions open a bit to keep your original date, and then wait until you can include all your guests for the reception! Consider a ‘virtual’ wedding, or even just embracing the new normal with your fiancé. We promise you that you will feel just as much love surrounding you!
Rebook for next year. Having a backup date for the following year will help to ensure the safety of your guests - which is SO important. I know this means waiting longer, but love is patient and will be so worth the wait! Plus, once that party happens - it’s going to be one heck of a good time, we just know it!
Embrace It (The Best You Can!)
No matter what pops up, make sure to embrace your plan B. If you have a positive attitude towards it, it won’t even feel like the backup! Some of the most memorable and fun weddings we have been apart of have had to switch to other plans.
Seriously, do not let it ruin your day if you have to change some things around! If you are prepared and have clear plans ready to go, you can focus on being super excited and not overwhelmed stress. Plus, your guests will feel your vibes. If you seem grumpy, sad or stressed out the entire time, they will know! Whereas if you make the best of it and embrace whatever comes your way, then your wedding will be amazing no matter what.
So believe us when we say, the best thing you can do is plan, plan, plan! Be ready for anything - you and your partner will be so happy you did. Besides, no great story ever starts with a salad!
Written by Madeline Silveira