Rescheduling a wedding due to a hurricane in Florida can be a stressful situation, but with the right approach, you can minimize the disruption and keep the process as smooth as possible. Here are steps to help you navigate this:
Review Contracts for Flexibility
Before you even get to the rescheduling stage, check your vendor contracts to understand their rescheduling and cancellation policies. Many venues and vendors in hurricane-prone areas may have clauses that allow for date changes due to natural disasters. Some vendors may offer flexibility in rescheduling without additional fees in the case of a hurricane.
Contact Your Vendors Immediately
As soon as a hurricane looks likely to disrupt your wedding:
- Call your venue to confirm their emergency policy and discuss alternate dates.
- Contact all vendors (caterers, florists, photographers, etc.) to check their availability for a future date.
- Talk to your guests—inform them of the situation and let them know that more details will follow once you confirm the new plans.
Coordinate with Key Guests
Before finalizing the new date, talk to family members and close friends whose presence is essential. Coordinate to find a date that works for them and your vendors, so you can minimize the impact on your loved ones.
Choose an Alternate Date
Work with your venue and vendors to find a new date. Since hurricanes can have an extended impact on travel and local services, it’s smart to choose a date far enough in the future to ensure everything is back to normal. Consider a weekday wedding or a date in the off-season if the venue and vendors are fully booked.
Update Invitations & Communication
Once the new date is confirmed:
- Send out digital updates to guests (email, wedding website, or social media).
- Consider physical “Change the Date” cards if there’s enough time.
- Make sure your message is clear, reassuring, and includes new logistics details such as accommodation updates or travel tips.
Coordinate with Your Wedding Insurance Provider
If you purchased wedding insurance, now is the time to contact your provider to see what expenses may be covered. Some policies cover rescheduling fees, travel disruptions, and even vendor-related costs due to a natural disaster.
Be Flexible with the Details
When rescheduling, some elements may need to change—like your floral arrangements, menu, or even bridal party availability. Be flexible and open to alternatives to make the transition smoother.
Stay Calm and Focus on Safety
Safety is the top priority during a hurricane. Ensure that you, your guests, and your vendors are safe. Stressing over the wedding date is secondary. Remind yourself that while this is disappointing, the most important part of the wedding is celebrating your love and commitment when it’s safe to do so.
Create a Backup Plan
If you live in or plan a wedding in Florida during hurricane season, it’s wise to have a backup plan before a hurricane is even forecast. Consider having an alternate venue (indoors) or a plan to relocate the ceremony to a safer location if needed. Family and Guest safety is the utmost important.
By following these steps and staying flexible, you can reduce the stress of rescheduling and ensure your wedding day is still special, even if it doesn’t happen exactly as planned.
Complete Weddings + Events Orlando
Our team in Orlando offers DJ, photography, videography, photo booth, and coordination! We would love to set up a time to chat with you and create the perfect wedding day for you. Reach out to us today to begin putting together your wedding package with us!