You've done your homework. Booked everything that needed to be booked, signed contracts, paid down payments. Everything was set. And then the world changed. Whether due to a pandemic, a family emergency, or circumstances beyond your control, postponing a wedding you've planned with so much love is one of the most heartbreaking decisions a couple can make.
But tuloy ang kasal — just not today. Here are 11 steps to guide you through the process.
What are your plans moving forward? Will you have a civil or intimate wedding now and celebrate with everyone later? Or move everything to a new date? This is the first of many decisions you'll make as a couple. Practice making them with love and clarity.
Your marriage license is valid for 120 days from issuance. Your CENOMAR (Certificate of No Marriage) and birth certificate are valid for 6 months. Check your documents now and request renewals if needed before they expire.
If papers are still valid, reach out to your church about new preferred dates and ask specifically about their safety protocols and availability.
Ask for help in coordinating with all your suppliers. Pin down 3 preferred new dates and communicate them — this makes it far easier to find a date that works for everyone.
Photo: The Mango Farm
Review each contract for their cancellation or postponement clause. If you're rescheduling, act fast — many couples are in the same position. Request a contract addendum for your new date. Keep a Plan C and even Plan D in mind.
With so many couples rescheduling, weekends fill up quickly. A weekday wedding gives you a better chance of having all your preferred suppliers available.
Call people personally. Check on them. Give them your update. This also helps you trim the guest list — some may not be able to attend the new date, and that's okay.
If you'll now have a smaller gathering, reconsider your original setup. A theme tied to a specific season may also need adjusting depending on when your new date falls.
Give guests a central place to find updated information. Keep it current — a simple page with your new date, venue, and RSVP details is enough to keep everyone in the loop.
It's okay not to be okay. Release those emotions. Seek out tools to keep yourself mentally healthy — you are not alone in this.
Dress up. Gather your household or go virtual with family and friends. Recite your commitment to each other. Make that date mean something — it still can.
Photo: Liz Rañola Photography
Deciding to postpone is tough and painful. But once you've given yourself time to grieve — start thinking positively. Take things one step at a time. Tuloy ang kasal.
If you need any help navigating the process, our friends from Simply Beautiful Events are available and would be happy to assist.