When the going gets tough,
the tough get going.
The phone call you don’t ever want to receive from a wedding venue…
…and only hours before you were due to walk down the aisle.
Crazy weather in Auckland overnight in early Feb had these two receive a call from their venue at 10.20am ON the day they were to be married, stating they need to POSTPONE the wedding due to a land slide taking out the water supply to the venue.
Let’s do this!
Family and friends flipped into action and sourced an alternative venue, notified everyone and J&H were married on time in a cutest little chapel just down the road from original venue, Waitakere Resort and Spa.
Congratulations J&H… how you held it together through it all is a credit to you both and to your people.
A couple of legends right here people.
What can you do if your Wedding Venue cancels?
Planning a wedding is a monumental task filled with excitement, anticipation, and yes, sometimes a bit of stress. One of the most significant aspects of this planning is securing the perfect venue. But what happens if your wedding venue cancels, due to unforeseen circumstances? It might seem like a nightmare scenario, but with the right approach, you can navigate this hurdle and still have the wedding of your dreams. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do if your wedding venue cancels.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first step is to stay calm. Panicking won’t help the situation and can cloud your judgment. Take a deep breath and assess the situation. Why was the venue cancelled? Is there a possibility of resolving the issue with the venue, or is finding a new one the only option? Understanding the cause can help you make informed decisions moving forward.
Contact Your Wedding Planner
If you have a wedding planner, reach out to them immediately. They are experienced in handling crises and can provide valuable assistance in finding a new venue or negotiating with the current one. They may also have industry contacts and resources that can expedite the process of securing a new location.
Review Your Contract
Take a close look at your contract with the venue. It should outline the terms and conditions regarding cancellations. Check for any clauses that might offer compensation or alternative arrangements. This is also a good time to consult with a lawyer if you’re unsure about any legal implications.
Notify Your Vendors
Inform your vendors about the situation as soon as possible. This includes caterers, photographers, florists, and entertainment. They need to know about the change in plans to adjust their schedules and preparations. Some may even have recommendations for alternative venues.
Explore Alternative Venues
Now comes the task of finding a new venue. Here are some tips to streamline the search:
Consider Non-Traditional Venues: Look into parks, private estates, or community centers. These venues may be more flexible with availability.
Be Flexible with Dates: If you’re willing to adjust your wedding date, you may have better luck finding an available venue.
Use Online Resources: Websites like queenstownweddings.org can be invaluable resources for finding last-minute venue options.
Leverage Your Network
Reach out to family and friends for recommendations. Someone in your network might know of a hidden gem that isn’t widely advertised or a venue that has recently become available. Personal connections can sometimes open doors that would otherwise remain closed.
Communicate with Your Guests
Once you have a new venue and possibly a new date, inform your guests as soon as possible. Update your wedding website, send out new invitations or save-the-dates, and utilise social media to spread the word. Clear communication will help ensure that everyone is aware of the changes.
Embrace the Opportunity
While it may not feel like it at the moment, a change in venue can be an opportunity to reimagine your wedding. Embrace the new possibilities that come with a different location. Maybe your new venue has unique features or offers a different atmosphere that can add a special touch to your big day.
Seek Emotional Support
Dealing with such a significant change can be emotionally taxing. Don’t hesitate to lean on your partner, friends, and family for support. They can provide a listening ear, practical advice, and much-needed encouragement during this stressful time.
While a venue cancellation can feel like a significant setback, remember that your wedding is about celebrating your love and commitment. With the right approach and support, you can overcome this obstacle and create a memorable, beautiful wedding day. Stay positive, stay flexible, and remember that the most important part of your wedding is the beginning of your life together.
