You were so excited. You’d booked the venue, sent out the invites, picked your flowers, booked your celebrant, chosen the dress… and then you get the news:that for whatever reason the hotel you have chosen has suddenly closed and your wedding day, the one you’ve been dreaming of, is suddenly up in the air.
NOW. First things first — take a big deep breath.
I know how overwhelming all of this could be, but I promise, you are not alone. In fact, it happens more often than you'd think. And yes, there is a way through it (with a little support and maybe a drink in hand).
So what do you actually do when your wedding venue shuts down?
Let’s walk through it together.
1. Have You Got Everything in Writing?
If you’ve had a call or heard through the grapevine, ask for official written confirmation from the hotel or venue. You’ll need this for insurance, suppliers, and even the bank (if deposits are involved).
2. Check Your Contracts + Wedding Insurance
If you’ve got wedding insurance (go you!), this is the time to call them.
Check what’s covered — many policies include things like venue closure, supplier failure, and postponements.
Even without insurance, don’t panic. Suppliers (and many venues) are more flexible than you’d think — especially when they know it’s out of your hands.
3. Contact All Your Suppliers
Be honest and keep them in the loop. In fact, they probably know already.
Your florist, caterer, celebrant (hi, that might be me!), and photographer will want to help if they can. We’re all human, and we care — especially when your day has taken a knock.
Some questions to ask of your suppliers:
Are they available on other dates?
Can they suggest any alternative venues?
What happens to your deposit?
4. Get Creative with Alternative Venues
Now for the (surprisingly fun) part:- Finding somewhere new.
This might be a moment where your wedding ends up becoming even more you than before.
Think of where you might have booked if you hadn’t found this venue. This will depend upon whether you were hoping to do the legal bit as part of your day, or whether you were looking at a celebrant led ceremony (which can take place anywhere).
A quirky countryside pub with space out the back
A family garden with a marquee
A village hall with fairy lights and personality
A hotel venue is lovely — but it’s not the only way to have a stunning, natural, fun celebration.
5. Let Your Guests Know — and Don’t Worry, They’ll Understand
Your guests will understand. They know it is not your fault so do tell them as soon as possible. No one is going to judge you for something you can’t control.
Therefore, be open with your them. Tell them what’s happened and:
If the date is changing
If the venue is changing
That you’ll keep them posted
(And if you do end up moving to a garden or something a little less traditional, I guarantee they’ll love it — especially if it means no hotel parking nightmares.)
THEN
6. Reclaim the Day — Your Way
This might sound strange right now, but so many couples I’ve worked with who’ve had a Plan B moment end up saying:
“This version felt more us anyway.”
You get to create something totally personal.
No hotel rules.
No pressure to conform.
Just you, your people, and a celebration that feels like home.
If I’m your celebrant I can promise this:
We’ll create a ceremony that tells your story, celebrates your resilience, and still has everyone laughing, crying, and reaching for tissues — even if the backdrop is a field or a front room.
Final Words (and a Big Virtual Hug)
Yes, this sucks.
Yes, it’s unfair.
But no, your wedding is not ruined. It’s just… reshaping itself. Into something beautiful, meaningful, and very, very you.
Your Plan B could be the best one yet!
If you’d like to talk about your wedding plans then feel free to contact me via lesley@practicallyperfectceremonies.co.uk