We hope everyone is staying healthy and safe during this unprecedented time—and working from home! If you’re reading this, it’s likely you’re worried about how the coronavirus (a.k.a. COVID-19) is impacting your wedding or wedding-related events. Please know that our hearts go out to you. We are thinking about you and are here to help in any way we can. While we’re not M.D.s, our D.M.s are always open—and we’re happy to serve as a support group of sorts for anyone who might need it.

What We Know

Updates on the virus are constant, and today, national guidelines were released, which recommend that people avoid gatherings of more than 10 people for at least the next 15 days . . . this definitely affects weddings taking place through this month. And for all of you who asked about going forward with or going to ceremonies in March, in response to our IG Story question prompt, we’re leaning heavily on the side of postponing in order to properly practice “social distancing.”

If you haven’t heard the term yet, social distancing refers to staying in as much as possible in an effort to lessen the spread of the virus. While you may be young and healthy, passing coronavirus on to people who are older, with weakened immune systems/underlying health issues, and those without easy access to care is a big enough risk to stay home as much as possible. It is definitely worth re-thinking travel plans and wedding dates, especially if you have grandparents attending.

And while this is an especially difficult time for couples, wedding planners, venues, and vendors—especially the smaller ones—are getting hit economically with postponed and cancelled weddings left and right. Celebrity wedding planner Mindy Weiss summed up how this feels best in a recent IG post:

What To Do

Keep Calm

We know this is easier said than done. The CDC has released tips for dealing with anxiety and stress during this time, which is especially important if you have any pre-existing mental health conditions. It’s key to remember that you aren’t in this alone, and as you discuss your options with your partner, family, vendors, and friends, do not panic.

Communicate

If your wedding is in or close to the time frame where social distancing is seriously recommended (from now to 8 weeks from now) or if you’re just not willing to chance it, it’s best to postpone. Need help? Here’s some starter text:

Dear Family & Friends,

We have made the difficult decision to postpone our wedding due to the situation regarding the coronavirus. Your health and safety are of utmost importance to us. We will fill you in on our new wedding details as soon as we have them. Please stay safe and healthy!

Love,
Your Name

Collaborate

Reach out to your planning team explaining your concerns and ask for their support and guidance. They’re experts, and while these are uncharted waters, they should be able to assist you. Just be sure to keep in mind that they’re likely getting lots of similar calls. And again, stay calm and be polite.

Create A Plan B

If re-scheduling isn’t an option, what’s possible in light of these recent developments? If it is, can your vendors transfer their services to a later date? Unclear? Ask your wedding planner for help here.

We know these are uncertain times and this is supposed to be the happiest time in your life. We’re here for you with any questions or concerns you have as we all band together in the name of keeping as many people healthy as possible. Stay safe and responsible!