I Do … But When?

Destination wedding experts weigh in on the biggest challenges they’re facing right now, like the uncertainty of not knowing how far ahead to plan, and how they’re handling bookings during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Many of us agents are living in fear right now — that’s the honest truth,” Stephanie Griffiths of Mangata Escapes tells Travel Courier. “We have brides lined up for the rest of the 2020 year and we have no idea what is going to happen with these. Not only due to the virus itself but also with guest affordability to attend these weddings.”

Even now, for couples booked into 2021, she says it’s been a challenge collecting deposits from guests as many people aren’t willing to commit to any future trips at this point, writes managing editor, Ann Ruppenstein in this week’s issue of Travel Courier.

“Suppliers have offered extensions for deposits, which is great but final payment dates aren’t budging for groups and I fear I will lose many for this fall due to that,” she adds. “On the bright side, I have booked a wedding for a couple in the past week. I think many are looking towards the future. I know I cannot wait to make up for this lull in vacations for myself.”

One helpful tool for Griffiths has been creating and engaging with Facebook groups, where brides can exchange information and thoughts with each other.

“It’s amazing — how these brides come together,” she says. “It’s been totally necessary at this time. You would think thousands of brides in a group would be chaos but it’s rarely ever catty. Pretty cool if you ask me.”

For the full story, check out this week’s Travel Courier.