Cancelling Wedding: Receiving Deposits Back?

Unfortunately, most vendors state in their contract that deposits will be non refundable as they protect themselves that way do they don’t lose out in their income. My venue was the only one that was going to give it back to me. All of my vendors were kind enough to be willing to switch the date and transfer all payments (wedding was May 15 but we are postponing). My DJ even told me I was locked into the package & price even if I delayed it two years (his example). Nice to know I wouldn’t be charged increased prices with this. Wishing you luck!

Are you able to reschedule instead of cancelling?

I think it depends. I was able to get my deposits back from my venue because they were not permitted to serve food or have gatherings. But my photographer and wedding coordinator kept their deposits and won’t refund. Part of me is frustrated by that but I also know they would have an extreme hardship trying to refund everyone. I’d see if your contract discusses it at all. I think mine did but I’m not going to argue it. So frustrating. But I also agree with PPs most vendors should work with you to reschedule.

I know most vendors have been willing to reschedule weddings without penalty, but if you are full-on cancelling your wedding, it is unlikely that you will receive your deposit back as it would be you doing the cancelling and not them.

Having the same issue. My vendor doest want to return my deposit back.

We'v been arguing for a week but it's pointless. Any suggestions about dealing with that? Cuz the sum is pretty big.

Michael Moore

review writer at detecthistory

Unfortunately, unless the vendor cancels, you're really at their mercy per most contracts. That's why we intend to postpone the celebration to the nearest date all of our vendors can accommodate instead. Try not to lose out on all the money and deposits we've already paid.

I postponed my wedding from May 31st to Sept 20. I haven't had an trouble with my vendors thought. My coordinator suggested reaching out to them all, sharing a a google spreadsheet with potential backup dates and see who is available when. I was extremely lucky and they were all able to do one of the new dates that my venue was available. Worked for the wedding party too!

Hi Evelyn,

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this, and I know the uncertainty of everything is crazy stressful!!

I do agree with most of the comment above. Unless you are postponing your wedding, most vendors will not issue a refund. Are you able to postpone instead of cancel?

Keep in mind, you are definitely not alone right now! We've started gathering initial tips and resources from WeddingWire here: COVID-19 Wedding Support Central

I hope this helps!