15 Wedding Experts Share Their Wisdom
Extra Thoughtful Tips from two beloved brides of Rocabella
We have gathered a short overview on useful and optimistic thoughts of some of the most competitive people in the wedding industry on how they conceive the current situation. Words of everyday sage gained through experience, encouraging insights and food for thought that will give you a basic guideline on dealing with these unprecedented times wedding wise!
Weddings in Santorini | Wedding Planners
To all couples’ currently going through this situation, our advice would be: Stay calm, stay informed, don't stop dreaming and planning about your wedding!
If your event needs to be postponed, plan ahead with your vendors and discuss alternative dates and options, prepare contingency plans, but don’t give in to panic. As wedding planners, we have always been called to manage stressful situations and we know the importance of remaining calm, staying informed, and being proactive every step of the way.
We believe that "Whenever there is a problem, there is always a solution to the problem".
There is one thing we know for sure, your love story will be told and it is going to be the most most magical day of your lives.
Do NOT ever forget : Love is what matters. You have still found the love of your life. You’re celebrating love; you’re celebrating life.
Stay well and healthy ! We take care of the rest.
Michael, Elena & Maria
Vangelis Photography | Wedding Photographer
COVID-19 has changed our world upside down and forced us to reconsider everything we took for granted. Wedding celebrations are indeed the last thing on people's minds at this point. Still, we should all keep in mind that there have been other epidemics in human history, and they never prevented us from finding laughter again and celebrating love. Postponing a wedding can have its benefits. For example, Santorini is also beautiful in late Autumn, but significantly more peaceful and quiet, allowing you to appreciate the island and its vibe. From a photography perspective, avoiding the strong early and mid-summer sun is something that will make your wedding photography experience much more convenient for you and your guests. Overall, I remain optimistic that the next day will find us all wiser, concentrating more on the important things in life.
Vangelis
Stella & Moscha Weddings | Wedding Planners
Dear Beloved Couples,
Wedding Planning can be a stressful time for a couple let alone during a pandemic. However maintaining a calm & positive attitude that this will soon be over is a one way road for all of us.
We are blessed in Greece to enjoy wonderful weather all the way to end of November. If you do need to postpone your wedding and can’t find dates in August-September then why not consider pushing it into Fall. We won’t lie: the risk of showers is certainly higher but Greece is not home to tropical storms. Fall showers are short and sweet! Also when you have the right team in place there is absolutely nothing to be concerned about as your chosen partners will ensure the transition to the new date is done in the most effective & timely manner.
You may loose some guests who will not be able to make it here for the new date. It is really unfortunate but this is probably the best time to consider hiring a cinematographer who will be able to broadcast your wedding live to your loved ones back home. Additionally you may also want to request your cinematographer for ‘Same Day Edit’ services. By the end of the night you will have a wonderful 1 minute video available to post on your social media so your loved ones can feel closer to you and your celebrations in Greece.
Until we are able to share wonderful sunsets in the Greek Islands with you here, stay safe & stay home.
Stella Chanioti
Stella + Moscha
Exclusive Greek Island Weddings
Weddings & Whimsy | Wedding Accessories , styling advice & designed props
A destination wedding in Santorini is truly unique and one that you and your loved ones will treasure and remember forever. It's not just a wedding, but an experience; one with you will share together.
There is no doubt that the current situation with COVID19 is one that no-one connected with your wedding has experienced before; however, as a team, a unit of dedicated professionals who care deeply and passionately about the work they do, the service they provide and the island that they are privileged to call home we stand with you and will support you in anyway that we can.
Tourism is an industry that drives Santorini, and many of the Greek islands and is the wheel that turns daily life. We want to share with you our traditions, our sunsets, our clear skies and endless blue.
So, in order to protect all of that and for you to experience something magical with us we ask you please to Postpone, not Cancel this event that you have imagined, planned for and dreamt about.
Let us help you to move the date, and to enjoy this journey together.
Anything is possible if you breath, pause and work as a team to ensure your destination wedding becomes the reality you've always held in your heart.
Kirsty & Daryl - Weddings & Whimsy, Santorini
Lighthouse Photography | Wedding Photographers
Due to the last days' situations and all the changes that COVID19 has brought to our lives, you are here to make a great decision. Should you let these new circumstances affect your dream.. or should you remain calm and adjust to the new facts? Our advise is to stay calm and positive. Don't let anyone or anything ruin the magic..
Yes, there might be a need of a bit change in your plans, but, no matter what, you should Never forget that you are not alone through all this. We are here and we are always by your side to support you and help you through all these first known circumstances. But above all, you have each other! And that's the greatest gift of all.
In this life journey you are about to begin, this might be your first opportunity to prove that love wins..Your love wins! And we are do damn sure that you will rise and shine through this challenge. Against all odds.. So, let's go for it, let's do it !
Teo & Anna
For any bride and couple, deciding on a destination wedding is an exciting but major decision which takes a lot of time and planning. But if you visualise your wedding with the beautiful caldera cliff as the backdrop and of course, the Santorini sunset and nothing else compares – then like myself, you will do whatever it takes to make this dream a reality!
It goes without saying that we had the best day of our lives at Rocabella and we wouldn’t have changed a thing. I loved the planning experience so much so that I opened my own destination wedding planning company – Mrs Smith Weddings.
This is a time of uncertainty and we’re not sure how long this will last but my advice is to be patient. Don’t rush in making any decisions, review all of your contracts so you are aware of key dates to make these decisions and most importantly, take this as we all are – day by day.
Everyone in the wedding and event industry and currently going through this and understand it is a difficult and unprecedented time. But, speak with your suppliers, speak with your venue and support those who have been on this planning journey with you – we’re all in this together!
I asked one of my couples to close their eyes and visualise their special day. When I asked where they pictured it, without hesitation, they both said Santorini. For this reason, if you can be patient and are happy to wait until this has passed, you can still have your dream destination wedding!
Georgia
Georgia Gravanis | Wedding Planner
Acknowledge your feelings and focus on self-care: It’s okay to feel stressed out by this situation! Make sure you’re on top of your self-care and use coping mechanisms like meditation, positive affirmations and joining virtual communities. You’re not alone during this time and finding other brides online who are going through the same thing can help you heal.
Make a back-up plan: No matter when it happens, you’re still going to get married! Be proactive, act early and calmly. Reach out to all of your wedding vendors to secure a back-up date in case you need to postpone. Consider weekdays, Fridays, Sundays and the Mondays of holiday weekends for a better chance your entire vendor team will be available.
Celebrate on your original date, even if the party is postponed: Whatever you do, don’t stay in bed all day thinking about what this day “should” have been. Make special plans with your fiancé on the original date you were supposed to get married. You could secretly elope, make a fancy dinner at home, or dance in your living room to your special first-dance song. Plus, now you have two anniversaries!
These are just some, but I also wrote three blogs on the topic on my website. Here is the link: https://www.kaynorthrupevents.com/blog
Kay
Kaleigh Northrup | Wedding Planner
Phosart Studio Photography | Wedding Photographers
Through these uncertain times, what is most important is that we all stay safe and follow the instructions of scientists and doctors.
Our health and responsibility to all people around us is essential.
Most of us are in lockdown, so we need to keep our minds busy and full with positive things and what makes us laugh.
Technology turns out such an asset these days and help us stay connected.
Of course the wedding industry has already casualties, as all industries.
We understand that all parts have invested a lot of time and money and it is painful to give up on a dream destination wedding.
This is why we urge all couples to re-schedule their event – all professionals from all sections will be on your side.
It will take a little longer than expected, but this time will be better, because we will never take one single celebration for granted.
Phosart team x
Julia & Evita | Wedding Planners
Our first and most important advice to all the couples whose wedding day is in the midst of the coronavirus situation is to stay calm. We know this is being said often but keep in mind that staying calm really is the best way to go.
It is ok to feel upset and angry - so were we as the situation progressed - but try to surpass these feelings and work on the best solution for you. Wherever there is a problem, there is always a solution!
Most of us have seen the campaign on social media ‘Postpone Don’t Cancel’. Some might think that it is made only for the vendor’s benefit, but in reality the meaning of it all is positive thinking and our love for weddings. The day will come when it will all be over, weddings will be planned once again, but perhaps not in the same way. They will be more special, and each and every guest will be appreciated more. The memories and time spent on this special day will have a greater meaning.
Be prepared, keep track of the news and talk with your vendors and guests often. You need to adjust to the new situation and go with the flow, soon your special day will come at it will be all you have ever imagined, and more.
Julia & Evita
Red Box Days | Wedding Florals & Decoration
Here at Redboxdays, we believe that a wedding day must be a day of smiles, laughs and happiness.
That’s why all of us wedding specialists say “Postpone, not cancel!
Postpone to a date that you think that is going to be safe for you and your guests. A date that will ensure that the only feelings that you will have are feelings of happiness, along with all your friends and family.
We, at Redboxdays, are giving as a gift for the first wedding of each month from July to October at Rocabella a bridal bouquet of orchids Pahlaenopsis ( we hope you like it !) for you and your bridesmaids. It’s the least we can do to show our appreciation for your effort in the next challenging months, in order to make your dream wedding come true , at the magical Santorini.
Kostas Korakas
Hello, lovely couples of 2020!
As you are well aware, we are currently in a situation we have never experienced before in our 12 years of wedding photography, as a result of the spread of the Coronavirus otherwise known as COVID-19. We have already self-isolated ourselves, are staying as healthy as possible to ensure not only our health but the health of your families and friends for when it comes time to photograph your day. Let’s do what we can to keep COVID-19 at bay and wash our hands frequently, eat well, take our vitamins, use contactless payment, shop online, and limit our social contact with people unless it’s absolutely necessary. We know that the last thing you want to do is reschedule. We won’t pressure you to make this call sooner than you have to, so please know we are on your team. Take advantage of the time you spend at home searching on social media and chatting with your friends for every single detail to make your wedding day even more perfect. Trust your vendors, keep dreaming!
#staysafe
Kapetanakis Studios Team
Kapetanakis Studio Photography | Wedding Photographers
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Betty's Flowers | Wedding Florals & Decoration
If you’re reading this, you’re probably one of the many couples concerned with how the coronavirus may impact your upcoming destination wedding on Santorini Island. We totally understand knowing how much time, effort, and money our couples put into planning their dream weddings. So, it can certainly feel stressful and a bit heart wrenching.
Our team here at Betty Flowers Santorini can’t claim any medical expertise, we do have a lot of wedding expertise though—and we want to support you however we can as this situation unfolds. Here are some tips:
Keep calm and do not panic! Of course, easier said than done. This situation is frustrating and likely saddening for you and many, many others. Your feelings are totally valid. However, as you discuss potential options with your partner, your family, your vendors. All parties will work to support you.
Don’t cancel but postpone! Work with us and discuss postponement options and all will be well, the only thing that needs to change is the date!
Be prepared and flexible! Be prepared, follow the news closely, and maintain an open conversation with your vendors and guests. Whenever there is a problem, there is always a solution to the problem. Even if we have to re-design your wedding, our floral styling experts can start from the beginning a new proposal, with new options and suggestions to choose from.
Keep smiling! It’s a common piece of advice to go with the flow on the wedding day. Just stay safe and keep smiling. Don’t let a virus steal this amazing life experience from you. It might be different than what you planned, but you might discover that it’s even more meaningful and romantic.
Our entire team will give all the efforts to decorate the most beautiful wedding, for the happiest moment of your life. These difficult moments will soon be behind us. Stay safe and till we meet again let the hope bloom!
Betty's Flowers Team
No matter your situation, it's important to remember to keep calm and carry on. Consider this a message to take care of your skin & body - stress isn't going to help. No doubt, this is a crazy time for all but your family, friends, and wedding vendors are here to help you navigate everything and hopefully, celebrate when it's safe for all to celebrate!
Love is never cancelled and its celebration can only be postponed; It's only a matter of "how soon" . These tough times will be over, so pick a new date, wear your best smile and leave it up to us to make your dream wedding come true!
Renia
Renia Bledaki | Make up Artist
Renia Bledaki | Make Up Artist
Our dream & our job is to offer you your “Divine Wedding” exactly as you have imagined it.
For this reason we want you to stay positive, stay safe & healthy & we will handle the rest.
Take time to think whether it is safer to reschedule your date & enjoy it later in the season instead of cancelling.
Because if you cancel, then you won’t have memories of your first kiss under the greek light of the bright blue sky, your first dance with a background of sunset colors & breathtaking views.
If you cancel you won’t offer your family & friends the chance to reveal a new destination that will mean so much to you & that will mark you new beginning.
With this situation being new to all couples & wedding professionals most of the companies will be flexible to change your wedding date into one that will make you fully enjoy the most special day of your lives.
Lastly, we understand what you are going through & the worries that the times may cause but we are here to suggest you solutions & plan b’s & of course to create together some magic that will stay forever in your hearts!
Divine Weddings
Divine Weddings | Wedding Planners
Love knows no constraints, no locks or bars.
It has a sole intention of bringing people together.
Love is patient.
When time comes it jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.
Spicy Bites Team is eager to meet you and be part of your special day, even if we have to wait just a little longer.
Until then take care of yourselves and your loved ones, think positive and keep dreaming of your wedding in Santorini.
Spicy Bites Team
Spicy Bites | Catering & Event Rentals
Spicy Bites | Wedding Catering & Rentals
We are the heroes of our times. Together we can make it through. Be strong, be safe and be sane. This is an opportunity, not a curse: bake your way through a classic recipe and make your grandma proud, grab that book you purchased last year but never found time to read, draw seagulls over a seashore on a lazy summer afternoon. Do your part and keep an eye for those in need; send a smile to the old lady across the street, waive hello to the delivery guy, comment positive to an Instagram post, say a comforting word to the cashier at the grocery store.
Even though times are uncertain and sketchy, be brave and reschedule your wedding plans for a new date, don’t just cancel; many people are eagerly waiting for the opportunity to offer their services to guests- especially now that hospitality and F&B industry are in struggle. Make those people’s effort worth it. Summer 2020 will come no matter what; it’s in our hand to make it magical!
While we are all patiently waiting for the latest updates on the virus’ spread to get back to business, think happy thoughts. The wedding dress is going to be out of this world, the scenery and the flowers are going to be picturesque, your loved ones will be so proud of you and the love of your life will cry tears of joy when they see you walk down the aisle! Be optimistic, great things will happen again!
United we will once again triumph. Our task was never easier: stay home until the storm passes by. We will meet again soon, under the mesmerizing Santorini’s sunset
Le Ciel Team
Le Ciel Santorini | Wedding Venue
Corinthians 13:4-8
4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.
Katerina & Maria
Rocabella Santorini Hotel & Spa | Wedding Venue
Keep your loved ones close, and shortly everything will return to normal.
A big THANK YOU to all our partners for taking the time to share their wisdom.
The Rocabella Family