Your wedding day is meant to be the happiest day of your life, a day filled with love and joy. However, when one of the vendors you had relied on suddenly closes or goes bankrupt, it can quickly turn into a nightmare. This is the unfortunate situation that Emma Rockburn and her fiance Phil Dallimore are facing in Toronto, as Berkeley Events, the company that operates several wedding venues in the city, abruptly shut its doors, leaving many couples stranded.
Upon discovering the news of Berkeley Events’ closure through a Facebook post, Rockburn described her reaction as a mix of tears, panic, and a dark sense of foreboding. The couple had planned to have their wedding at Berkeley Church in September, but now they are left scrambling to find a new venue while dealing with the financial and emotional stress of their losses.
However, amidst the chaos, Rockburn and Dallimore have found solace in the support of the wedding community. Many couples who were also affected by the closure have come together on social media to share advice, offer alternative venues, and provide much-needed guidance during this difficult time. Some businesses have even reached out directly to help couples find new locations for their weddings.
Alison McGill, the host of Aisle Seat Podcast and a former editor-in-chief of Weddingbells magazine, suggests that hiring a wedding planner can be incredibly beneficial in these situations. Wedding planners have been the unsung heroes of the wedding industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, as they have successfully rescheduled countless wedding days for couples. Even hiring a wedding planner solely for the day-of can provide an extra level of insurance and organization, allowing the couple to focus on their special day.
In addition to a wedding planner, McGill advises couples to read through vendor contracts thoroughly. It’s essential to understand the cancellation policies and the recourse available if a company goes bankrupt. While weddings are undoubtedly emotional events, McGill reminds couples to approach them with a business mindset, as they involve significant investments. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t have personal connections with your vendors. McGill emphasizes the importance of choosing vendors who inspire confidence and communicate effectively, as they will be your support system during any unexpected circumstances.
When it comes to legal considerations, Alycia Rose, founder of “The Wedding Lawyer,” suggests that reading contracts carefully is crucial. Contracts often outline details such as cancellation clauses and payment schedules, making it essential to have a lawyer review them. Rose also advises couples to trust their instincts when selecting vendors. If a vendor has good reviews, consistent communication, and a genuine desire to make your dream wedding come true, they are more likely to be reliable.
Financial considerations are also important when paying suppliers. Rose recommends using a credit card, as it offers a level of recourse if a vendor goes out of business. The couple can contact their bank to stop payments and protect their finances. In extreme cases, it may be necessary to consult with a lawyer or financial agency to explore litigation options or understand what rights the couple has as unsecured creditors if a business goes bankrupt.
Unfortunately, for Rockburn and other couples affected by Berkeley Events’ receivership, it is unlikely they will recoup their losses. Creditors such as banks and mortgage holders have priority, leaving couples who booked the venue at a disadvantage. Despite the challenging circumstances, Rockburn remains focused on the positives that have emerged from this ordeal. She emphasizes that what truly matters is her and her partner, surrounded by the love and support of their family, friends, and even strangers who genuinely want to help.
In conclusion, navigating the challenges of wedding planning requires a combination of practicality, emotional support, and a network of reliable vendors and professionals. By approaching the process with a business mindset, couples can protect themselves and ensure a smooth and memorable wedding day.
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