Sad news

I think you just include the immediate (parents, siblings, grands) for the July ceremony (assuming they are all nearby) and let everyone else know that Uncle Sam had other things in mind for your FH (You could try to make it cutesy, if it's not Corona, it's Uncle Sam).

I'm sure everyone would be fully understandable.

As for the nearer, again, I'd just keep it real intimate and take them out to dinner somewhere. That way all your planning doesn't go to waste and you can still have the dream wedding you always wanted.

I'm sorry that you're having to change your plans so abruptly; I know it's a tough thing to do. I would think about what your biggest wants out of your wedding day are (after gaining your new husband, of course!). When we were coming up with our contingency plans (had to postpone our July wedding to November, and came up with Plan C just in case), we thought about our (my) biggest wants from the day. When it boiled down to it, I said I wanted beautiful pictures to remember the day by. Because that was my top priority, our Plan C (should November not happen) will to go to a scenic location (literally anywhere that travel restrictions will allow) with my FH, a photographer, and an officiant and elope. Then, we'll have the reception the following year as a first anniversary party. I would recommend thinking about your biggest want from the day and focusing on that for your new wedding day, then using next year to have an anniversary party. My FH, whose father made a career out of the military, also suggested seeing if you can get in contact with your FH's senior officer's wives to have them be a support system, as many may have had to go the same route as you (married due to deployment and party later). Whatever you do, just know it'll be a perfect day, even if it may not look like the day you had envisioned.

I am sorry you have to change your plans so quickly. I believe a small intimate ceremony for your closest and nearest and a nice dinner at a restaurant will be the best plan. You can let everyone know you are looking to celebrate with everyone in 2021.

Sounds lovely, hope you have a wonderful day.

Hi Callie! That's definitely sad news, it's got to be tough to change your plans so quickly!

Like others have said, I'd schedule a legal ceremony with just your immediate family for as soon as you can arrange it and then postpone the party party for later!

I think a small celebration at your aunt's lake house sounds perfect!