What to do if Financial Circumstances Change Mid-Planning

Photo by: Lauren Lucille Creative

Let’s talk about the money stuff.

In my 8+ years of planning weddings, I’ve helped couples and families navigate all kinds of life curveballs—grief, illness, a literal pandemic, and yes, those “oh no” financial surprises. Out of everything I’ve seen shake up a wedding plan, unexpected money stress is hands-down the most panic-inducing.

Whether it’s a job loss, a wild stock portfolio swing, a surprise move, a surprise baby (hi, life!), or that PhD program finally calling your name—financial changes mid-wedding planning can feel like the rug’s been yanked out from under you. But deep breath. You do have options.

Here’s where to start:

1. Read those contracts (yep, the fine print matters now).

Before you can pivot, you’ve got to know what you’re working with. Some vendors (like catering and floral) offer a bit more flexibility since their pricing isn't locked in like a flat fee—but even they usually have minimums or caps on how much you can cut. Pull out your contracts and see what kind of wiggle room you’ve got.

2. Revisit your guest list.

If invites haven’t gone out yet, this is the first place to trim. We’ve talked about it before—guest count is the biggest driver of wedding costs. And if invites have gone out and this still feels like the best move? Make the calls. Be honest. Life is messy, and the people who love you will get it.

3. Look at who’s still on the “to book” list.

Can we skip transportation? Were you eyeing some “nice to have” experiences that haven’t been locked in yet? This is the moment to Marie Kondo that vendor list and keep only what truly sparks joy and fits the budget.

4. Chat with your caterer and florist.

Once you know your new guest count and your contract boundaries, it’s time to schedule those vendor convos. Let them know where you’re at and explore ways to lower costs—whether that’s switching up menu formats, simplifying arrangements, or adjusting bar packages.

5. The Big C Word: Cancellation.

No one wants to talk about this. I know my vendor friends are screaming at me for even bringing it up—but if you're considering canceling, it’s because it’s truly necessary, and you deserve support for that too. So here’s what to do:→ Check your contracts for cancellation terms.→ Review your insurance policy—some offer cancellation coverage.→ Know what the financial implications are before making that call.

Planning a wedding is already a lot. Add in a financial shake-up and it can feel like the whole thing is slipping out of your hands. But I promise, you’re not alone—and you have choices. We’ll figure it out together.

You don’t have to brave the wedding planning chaos solo. Hop on a call and let Team BURST be your wedding ride-or-dies.