"Three Actions from the Newlyweds to Ensure Guests' Comfort: For Cases of Postponement or Proceeding"

2020.03.07 published

Important Moments for Weddings!

It is well-known that many events have been canceled or postponed due to the coronavirus.

Even graduation ceremonies have been canceled in some schools, which is sad and disappointing.

Weddings are no different, and many brides are facing the dilemma of

"Should I postpone it?!"

"Then when would be a good time!?"

"Should I just cancel it?!"

They are forced to make these tough judgments.

Planning a wedding is already challenging, and on top of that, facing the unprecedented scale of an infectious disease is incredibly tough...

It’s understandable to feel distressed about how to proceed when you thought you could have a wedding as usual.

In this article, given the current situation with COVID-19, we will suggest ways to communicate with guests in three different scenarios:

✅ If you plan to hold the wedding as scheduled

✅ If you are unsure whether to proceed

✅ If you decide to postpone or cancel

Please check out the suggestions I have thought of.

Measure 1: [If You Are Holding the Wedding]

<Send a letter, whether by email or LINE, just to let them know.>

Given that the topic of "wedding postponements due to COVID" has become quite common,

guests who are invited to the wedding are likely concerned about whether it will be held or not.

Therefore, even if you plan to hold the wedding as scheduled, it would be considerate to make a declaration or show your decision by stating, "We will proceed as planned!"

From the guests' perspective, regardless of their own thoughts and responses about COVID, knowing that the wedding will take place will help ease their doubts.

The key point is to show consideration for those who are concerned about the coronavirus.

Adding phrases like "Please feel free to decline if you wish not to attend" will convey your kindness and understanding.♡

For example, here is an image of the kind of message you might send.

*******Consider this*********

In early spring, I hope this finds you all well.

I would like to express my gratitude for your prompt response regarding our (wedding? reception?).

I understand that everyone has various concerns regarding the COVID-19 situation.

After much consideration, we have decided to proceed as planned. Of course, we understand that everyone has their own opinions and circumstances, and changes in attendance are expected.

Please make your decisions without any pressure, and we would appreciate it if you could let us know your attendance status again. If you cannot attend, kindly inform us.

Whether you attend or decline, we will view your response as a reflection of your thoughts about us. In the future, we intend to look back on our current feelings and deepen our gratitude for the various sentiments you all have shown us.

Thank you very much for your understanding.

********************************

Measure 2: [If You Are Unsure]

<Conduct a survey of your guests>

Asking guests directly, "Do you think we should hold the wedding?" is one option.

Since using real names might feel awkward, doing it anonymously might make everyone feel more comfortable.

While you will need to contact them via email or LINE, you can use free survey systems like Google Forms.

➡︎ Google Forms here

Even my child’s daycare conducted a survey regarding the holding of graduation ceremonies.

It was a simple one where you just check whether you think it would be better to hold it or not.

However, if you conduct a survey, you must share how you made your decision based on the results.

Whether you decide to hold it as planned or postpone/cancel, make sure to keep them informed.

Measure 3: [In case of Cancellation or Postponement]

If you decide to postpone, do not just send a message via LINE or phone. For elders or special people, sending a formal written notification would be more respectful.

Here is a sample message.

*******Option 1: Consider this*********

In early spring, I hope this finds you all well.

Thank you for your response regarding our (wedding? reception?).

I understand that everyone has various concerns regarding the COVID-19 situation.

After much deliberation, we have decided to postpone it.

I sincerely apologize for having to ask you once again, considering how much precious time you have set aside for us. I appreciate your understanding regarding this matter.

Please kindly inform us of your attendance status again. We will contact you with the new date soon.

******Option 2: If the new date is undecided******

I hope this message finds you well.

Thank you for your response regarding our wedding celebration.

Due to the recent outbreak of the coronavirus, we have discussed and decided to postpone our wedding.

I sincerely apologize for asking you again, especially since you had planned on attending our wedding. I appreciate your kind understanding.

We will inform you once a new date is scheduled, and we hope you can join us then.

******Option 3: If a new date has been set******

I hope this message finds you well.

Thank you for your response regarding our wedding celebration.

Due to the recent outbreak of the coronavirus, we have discussed and decided to postpone our wedding to YYYY/MM/DD.

We kindly ask that you inform us of your attendance using the enclosed postcard.

I sincerely apologize for asking you again, especially since you had planned on attending our wedding. I appreciate your kind understanding.

******Option 4: If the wedding is canceled******

I hope this message finds you well.

Thank you for your response regarding our wedding.

We regret to inform you that due to the recent outbreak of the coronavirus, we have decided to cancel the wedding.

I sincerely apologize for having to make this request, especially for those of you who had planned to attend.

➡ If you're looking to order apology letters, I recommend asking Farbe!

What If You Were in the Guests’ Position?

✅ If you want to decline, contact the bride and groom as early as possible.

(It is kinder to relay your decision earlier rather than waiting until the last minute to see if you will attend.)

✅ If you can't attend, it is courteous to send a gift (wedding congratulations), so don’t forget.

Especially in cases where attendance may differ between individuals, it would be wise to send the full amount as a congratulatory gift as it could help smooth future interactions!

Communicating Your Decision = Building Trust

At any time, expressing your intentions is of utmost importance.

Declaring "I think this! I will do this!" and sharing that with others is always important, especially in times of confusion, where it becomes critical.

With the ongoing discussions of whether weddings should be postponed or held amidst the coronavirus situation,

I hope you can cultivate deeper relationships with those who have supported you enough to be invited to your wedding by taking a trustworthy stance.