Covid guest list - how to let everyone know we are cancelling?

Hi Ashley, I’m so sorry your reception has been so affected and I commend how strong you are being ❤️ When we reduced our guest list, we sent out a formal mailing and also spread through word of mouth as well. We did a quote at the top about how God’s path sometimes changes and below stated due to the global pandemic we would be having an intimate wedding and although we wish we could have everyone present, we look forward to seeing them in the future.
Hope this helps with your new plan ❤️

I recommend you call those who you cannot communicate with via email.

I would send something out in the mail to let your guests know. You don't owe any kind of lengthy explanation - you could even word it as simply as, "The COVID-19 pandemic has forced a lot of changes to our wedding plans. Due to the risk of the virus and also the gathering restrictions in place, we have made the difficult decision to cancel our wedding reception. We are instead planning to elope in a small ceremony with just our immediate family present. We will miss your presence at our wedding, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience. Thank you for your understanding."

I personally would send something out in the mail.

Most couples send formal cancellations through the mail. I personally like that idea the best!

We had to postpone to later this year, we typed up a letter explaining what was happening and sent it out to everyone. We didn't have email addresses either so we just did letters.

If you are cancelling everything, send a card in the mail to your entire guest list stating that the wedding is off and return any gifts you have received.


A reception is still required the same day for those attending the ceremony. Have you sent save the dates to others for the post-celebration event? If so, send a card to those people stating that you got married on whatever date but the celebration party at a later date has been canceled due to Covid restrictions.

View Quoted Comment Ok that helps a lot. Obviously people will be extremely understanding about the situation. I just didnt want it to come off rude either like hey immediate family only you didnt make the cut sorry haha. We would clearly not say that but I feel like no matter how its worded that's how it would sound. I think just going with a letter explaining it all would work, rather then just saying its cancelled.

View Quoted Comment Thank you guys have helped me figure it out! Your advice was useful=]