When unexpected complications happen, you may not be able to avoid putting off your wedding reception or other events indefinitely, but you don’t have to forego ALL the enjoyment!
Sure, tradition dictates a particular order to the festivities. You know the drill: engagement, bridesmaid and groomsmen proposals, plan the wedding, get together for the ceremony & reception at the chosen venue(s), then the honeymoon.
But any or all of these norms can be juggled to fit the circumstances. The only actual requirement is a legal officiant preside and file a valid marriage certificate. Everything else is open to redefinition.
Here are some ideas to put you in the wedding spirit while planning an uncertain wedding.
Note: This post contains affiliate links. My Online Wedding Help will receive a small commission at no added cost to you if you click and buy a product.
1. Re-Save the Date
If you’ve already sent out save-the-dates or invitations, Ian and the team at Creative Union Design have the perfect solution. Text, email, or snail mail one of their change the date cards to your guests. That’s one of their downloads in the photo above.
Purchase and download the design of your choice. Then add your names with the free Adobe Reader. Use Ian’s instructions to save in a format everyone can see, and you are ready to announce the postponement to your list.
2. More Uses for the Wedding Card Box
There are so many more uses for a card box than cards. It is also an excellent organization tool and keepsake box. So, buy it now, before you need it at the wedding (leave the date off if the exact when is unclear). Then use it as a wedding organizer or to keep small DIY supplies. It will be a consistent reminder of what’s essential.
Bernetta of Reed and River makes some of my favorite rustic designs. Learn more about and buy her wedding card boxes here.
3. A Virtual Spa Day with the Bridesmaids
Send spa day gifts to each of the girls. Then convene for DIY mani-pedis and drinks over Zoom.
Brenda at A Wonderful Soap makes a line of luxurious but affordable scrub and soak spa gift sets to give you and the girls that pampered feeling. See them all here and in the photo above.
And, of course, wine. Personalized wine glasses are a must. You can make your own DIY Personalized Glitter Wine Glasses. Or, if you don’t have quite enough time for the Mod Podge to cure, Paola has you covered. People rave about her custom wine tumblers. Take a peak above, then learn more or buy here.
4. Stream a Private Ceremony
Think of it as a type of in-place-elopement. With an audience.
You stay home and stream the ceremony through live video. Then later, when everyone can get together in one space, have a reception or repeat ceremony. Read How to Pull Off an Online Wedding from Your Living Room for ideas on how to do just that.
5. Honeymoon at Home First
After (or even before!) you elope from home, a stay-in honeymoon may be just right. Since you may be canceling an expensive trip, how about treating yourselves to a luxe boudoir outfit?
The Lingerie
Janie at Sarafina Dreams sells oh-so-seductive, yet tasteful bridal nightgowns. Start the seduction with one of her exquisite creations here.
The Garter
The garter is an integral part of the wedding tradition. And in the privacy of your home, the removal by your partner can take on a not entirely unexpected twist.
Splurge on a custom design from The Garter Girl. Julianne will completely customize one just for you. Or choose from one of the personalized designs from her shop. Such as the Bow-Dacious pictured above. Like all her garters, it is carefully crafted for you and delivered in a gift box with an heirloom bag. Use code MyOnlineWeddingHelp to get $20 off any order of $150 or more.