Weddings After a Tragedy

No one can say for sure what the proper etiquette is for those who have suffered a tragedy right before their special day. Like so many things to do with weddings, the choice is ultimately up to the bride and groom.

Depending on the nature of the tragedy and the nearness to the wedding day a number of different scenarios can take place.

If the death of a relative occurs, many bridal couples choose to go on with their wedding plans as a celebration and reaffirmation of life. Although a difficult choice, sometimes just knowing that the person who passed on would be smiling down at you, helps move everyone forward during a difficult time.

Should the need to postpone your wedding occur due to a death or a serious accident or illness, it is important that all guests be notified as soon as possible. If time permits, formal announcements may be printed or handwritten notes can also be issued. Suggested wording for these accessories can include the names of those hosting the wedding (in many cases the bride's family), just the same as appeared on the original wedding invitation, followed by: ...Regret that they are obliged to recall the invitations to the marriage of "bride's name" and "groom's name" due to the death of "name and relation to bridal party".

Some bridal couples may choose to carry on with the wedding ceremony itself and forego the celebration afterwards. In this case, depending on the nature of the wedding favor, and the time allowance before the wedding date, some couples may forward their intended wedding favors to their guests with a brief note of apology, outlining the reasons for their reception cancellation.

No matter what a couple may choose to do in the face of an overwhelming tragedy, open discussions with all affected, and sensitivity to those in mourning, should always be paramount. Sometimes a little celebration of life can often help ease the pain of loss.

©2007 Weddingstar Inc.