Planning a Salem, MA wedding during the COVID-19 pandemic

Hi everyone, happy Friday. Welcome back to the blog. For today I wanted to chat about planning a Salem, MA wedding during the COVID-19 pandemic. 2020 was nuts, as we all know and we aren’t exactly out of the woods yet with COVID-19. According to TheKnot.com, 35% of couples who had upcoming weddings have postponed to 2021 or later. So what are a few things you should keep in mind if your big day is this year? These are a few of my thoughts on the matter…

Communication with guests is key

With things changing pretty much daily, keeping your guests informed is crucial. If you don’t already have a wedding website, now is an excellent time to create one so you can update everyone in one shot.

Understand what is in your contracts

When booking your venue and vendors, you likely signed a contract. Be sure you understand what is in there regarding cancellation, moving your date and more. This also includes what would happen if (heaven forbid) one of your vendors becomes sick and is unable to work your wedding. Do they have a back up in place? How much notice would you have? If you have to pick a new date are there fees? What if the new date is not available with that vendor? Can you work out a partial refund? What if a reduced guests list means you can no longer meet your food and beverage minimums with your caterers? These are things you need to know so you can adjust accordingly if needed.

If you DO have to pick a new date

If the decision is made to reschedule, begin with your venue first. Pick a new date with them and then go down the line with your vendors to see if they are still available. Update your website and guests once everything is determined.

If you do push the date back, the earlier you can let guests know, the better. If anyone is coming into Salem from a distance for your big day they will need time to adjust their travel plans.

The last note I have on this is to rebook early, if you’re going to. Dates are already filling fast for 2021 and 2022 with couples who had to reschedule from 2020 so don’t wait too long.

Consider scaling it back

If you’re completely set on keeping your wedding date, consider scaling things back. Many venues in Salem are now offering mini-monies or smaller packages for scaled back events. You could also elope in Salem on your chosen date and then have a huge party later once COVID-19 is more under control.

Insurance

If possible, pick options, accommodations and travel plans for your new date that have insurance. We don’t know what 2021 or 2022 are going to look like with COVID-19 numbers being where they are, so make sure you have cancellation insurance, travel insurance for international couples/guests and more. You might want to consider having wedding insurance in general so you have options available to you if the unforeseen happens.

I hope this helps! Feel free to comment below with your own thoughts. Good luck on your big day!! <3

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