Now that we are approaching 2021 with so many weddings on the horizon, we are starting to wonder how many of these Spring Weddings will still go on as planned. Don't get me wrong, we are holding out SO MUCH hope! A lot of positivity over here.. but also a lot of reality. We can't help but do our job and plan for every situation and have a back up plan for it and a back up plan for that. It doesn't look like Covid is going away any time soon so we need to get used to these weird situations it's bringing up.
At this point I know so many of us just want to continue on with plans as normal, hoping for the best! And because we've missed out on so much this year, you just want to invite everyone and their mama! Well the reality is, is that you might need a back up plan for your 2021 Wedding. Are you nervous to send wedding invites because you might be forced to reduce your guest count and deal with disinviting a lot? This feels awkward right?!
It doesn't have to be. It used to be so shameful and distasteful to have to revoke a wedding invitation. Now?? Totally normal. People are so understanding that these are just the times we're living in and we have to deal with it. The most important thing is that you get married to the love of your life in the way that you both want. If that is reducing your guest count in order to keep your original wedding date, venue or vendors, your friends and family will understand and they're going to show up on zoom or a live stream, cheering you on!
So here are 2 ways that you can invite all of your guests, while giving them a heads up that you might need to reduce your guest count later:
1. Include a note card in your invitation suite
Just like a details card, have a small card that explains your concerns. Be open and honest and don't worry about rhyming like something off of Pinterest because it can come off as disingenuous. It can say something like: "We are so grateful for all of the support you have given us throughout the years, nothing would make us happier than to share with you happy tears. We're aware the pandemic might not be gone by the time we wed, so we understand if you choose zoom instead. (oh shoot! I actually did rhyme right there!) Plans are continuing as normal, and we hope to see you there! But we might have to make the difficult decision to reduce our guest list instead. If that's the case, we will reach out with our live stream link and we hope you'll be watching so our hearts are in sync."
I seriously couldn't help myself. I ended up rhyming. You could also end it "If it comes to this, we will give you as much notice as possible and send you a link to view our ceremony virtually. Thank you again for all of your love and support as we plan our wedding through this crazy time."
Just don't overthink it. If someone is invited to your wedding they are obviously someone close to you. Meaning they're not going to judge your poetic skills! Just like you're not judging mine, right??
2. On your Wedding Website
On your website have it on the RSVP page and the FAQ's page. It can be a long message like the note card or it can simply be in bold lettering that says: "COVID 19 may cause us to reduce our guest count. Please RSVP and we will reach out if there are any changes. If we have to cut our list, we are still getting married and we will send out a live stream link. Thank you for understanding." On the FAQ'S page let them know the latest you'd be making that decision in case they are traveling and need lodging. You can also let them know that they're allowed to request a private table or a table with their own household.
Let Guests RSVP - yes/no/virtually
Everyone has different opinions about how to handle social distancing. Respect your loved ones and give your guests the option to celebrate with you virtually so they don't feel forced to say no. Or they don't have to bother you with the request of a link. You can have this on your wedding website so it's all in one place.
I know this is a lot and I'm so sorry if you have to deal with this.. but know that you are not alone and we can help guide you through all of your options. If people give you a hard time or pressure you to make a decision you don't want, you can just give them our number and we can kindly remind them how awesome of a person you are and how they are so lucky they get to be a part of your life. Even if it's on zoom. It's a privilege to have good people around us and we all need to stick close to each other (6' away).
We love you,
Jess + The Joyeux Team