Hey All! I know a lot of couples are looking for answers right now regarding how the outbreak of the Coronavirus, aka COVID-19, will affect their wedding plans this year…or even those planning weddings for next year, so I thought I’d let you all know what I know!
How COVID-19 might affect current C Humes Photography Brides
My wedding photography season isn't starting until Mid April so hopefully things calm down a bit by then, but with many states limiting events over a certain amount of people and rumors of an interstate travel ban here are the possibilities.
First, unless I fall ill in the two weeks surrounding your wedding, I will not be deterred. I am here for you all, pandemic or no. Second, SHOULD, I get sick, as per our contract, I WILL make arrangements with a suitable associate photographer with similar style to send in my place, without you having to panic or do any legwork apart form approving my choice. If that is the case, I will still edit and deliver your final gallery. And finally, should you be faced with the tough decision of postponing, all I ask is that you consult with me (as well as other vendors involved) to nail down a new suitable date that works with everyone’s availability *before* you secure that date with your venue, so we can make sure we remain your trusted photographer / vendors. I purposefully do not overbook myself on weekends so that I can make sure I am available for a variety of weekends should an emergency such as this arise, so I do not foresee that being an issue, but it’s always best to be on the same page. I'm all about communication. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions!
Should I postpone my wedding do to the Coronavirus?
I am in the camp “take the virus seriously,” so if you decide to postpone your wedding due to COVID-19 you will have no push back from me. In fact, those who have wedding dates in April may want to start seriously considering checking into their options. We have no idea how government bans will effect travel and social gatherings nor how long they will be in effect. Of course, all of your vendors will likely recommend you try postponing instead of cancelling so that they (read we, haha) do not suffer a loss of income. A party does not make a marriage. I’ve photographed many weddings after a couple is already married on paper so you may also consider getting married legally now and postponing your party until a later date.
How will COVID-19 effect planning a 2020 wedding?
Engagement season has just finished and you may be just getting serious about planning your wedding. The first thing I would be aware of is that you may be competing for venue dates with Spring couples who are rescheduling. I predict that Fall 2020 will be extra hard to lock down this year so if you find a venue or vendor that you love, lock them in as soon as possible or consider holding your wedding on a Friday or Sunday.
How can I protect my wedding from COVID-19?
Unfortunately, there is only so much you can do. Depending on your date, postponing may be your best option. Some couples are choosing to Elope or hold small ceremonies as to not put their friends and family at risk of getting sick. Coronavirus or not, I highly recommend every couple look into Wedding insurance. A lot of wedding vendors have contracts stating non refundable payments and retainers for cancelled weddings and wedding insurance can help you recoup those costs while allowing wedding vendors to continue to pay their bills.
Some closing thoughts…
I’ll repeat that a party does not make a marriage. Making this decisions will not be easy but it will bring you and your partner closer together. Lean on each other. Trust each other with your uncertainties. And above all else, love each other with patience and grace even if you do not see eye to eye. After, 10+ years of photographing weddings, I can tell you that weddings and wedding cakes and all the flowers in a tri-state area will not matter. What matters is the two of you weathering the storm of life together.
