Your wedding day is one of the most important moments of your life - and the last thing you want to hear is that your venue has cancelled! I’ve had couples who have experienced just this - and while this can be a stressful situation, it’s important to stay calm and remember that there are plenty of alternative options to ensure your special day is still magical.
So here’s hoping the worst doesn’t happen - but if it does, here are some creative ideas and backup plans if you find yourself needing to quickly find a new venue, inspired by recent clients who embraced the craziness and rolled with things, to ultimately have a romantic, love-filled, gorgeous wedding day.
Step One: Stay Calm and Assess Your Options
First and foremost, take a deep breath. Panicking won’t help the situation, and a clear mind is essential for problem-solving. Once you’ve had a moment to process, start assessing your options.
Reach Out to Alternative Venues
Venue cancelled? Think about alternative venues that are likely to have availability, for the number of guests you are hosting. They might not be your absolute dream venue - but fill it with a few decorations, the people you love, and (most importantly) your wife or husband-to-be, and really, that’s all that matters.
A few alternative venues to consider:
Community spaces: Local community centres, halls, and other public spaces can be a fantastic alternative. They are often affordable and can accommodate a range of guest sizes. Check with your local council for available options, and think about the wider region. Look at online directories for ideas. Reach out to churches and other large indoor spaces.
Take it outdoors: Wellington is blessed with beautiful outdoor locations that can serve as stunning backdrops for your wedding. Consider public spaces such as beaches, parks, and gardens. You might have to work with some wild weather - but that’s authentically Wellington, am I right?
South coast beaches: Go rugged and wild on the Wellington coastline - it makes for stunning windswept photos
Local gardens and parks: Lush, green venues perfect for serene and intimate ceremonies. Some Wellington parks require permission from the council to hold events, so reach out to them online and enquire.
Family homes and backyards: If your wedding is smaller and more intimate, think about hosting it at a family member’s home or in a spacious backyard. These venues can provide a warm and personal atmosphere. Know someone with a bit of land or a large backyard who could make it work?
Separate Ceremony and Reception Venues
In situations where finding one venue for both the ceremony and reception is challenging, consider using different locations.
For the ceremony: Opt for a beautiful, meaningful place for your ceremony, like a beach, park, or even a favourite spot that holds sentimental value.
For the reception: Look for a nearby hall, restaurant, or other venues that can host the reception. This approach can often open up more options and make the day even more special. If your reception space is cancelled but you do have a large backyard or family property you could use last-minute, consider hiring food trucks to . They can bring a unique and festive vibe to your wedding. Or - an outdoor picnic-style reception can be charming and relaxed. Lay out blankets, provide picnic baskets filled with goodies, and let your guests enjoy a casual meal in a park or garden.
Tips for a Smooth Transition
Communicate with your other vendors: If you have a last minute venue cancellation, make sure to keep all your vendors informed about the change in plans. Most vendors will be flexible and supportive during these changes - they know how stressful the whole thing can be!
Check permits and regulations: If you’re opting for a public space, make sure you have the necessary permits and adhere to any local regulations before you press go.
Make a backup plan: Always have a Plan B, especially for outdoor venues. Consider renting a marquee or tent to protect against unexpected weather changes.
Delegate: Enlist the help of your bridal party, family, and friends. Delegating tasks can ease the burden and ensure that everything runs smoothly, especially during moments of stress like cancellations.
While having your wedding venue cancel can be disheartening, it’s important to remember that your wedding day is about celebrating love and commitment. With a bit of creativity and flexibility, you can find alternative venues and solutions that will make your day just as special, if not more so. Stay calm, explore your options - and if you need inspiration, check out Mel and Peter’s wedding for all the warm fuzzies!
