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First off, I would just like to say that I hope everyone reading this is staying safe and well! Based on recent events and news, the Coronavirus is likely top of mind for you whether your wedding is only months away or you just recently got engaged. Since I've been talking to couples on both ends of the spectrum lately, I realize that this is a strange time for all of us and just want to let you know that I'm here to help you navigate during this time as this pandemic is obviously new territory. With Yosemite National Park being a destination area, we're used to dealing with acts of nature such as fires, floods, snowstorms, etc., so we do have provisions in place for force majuers such as this which include options for rescheduling, postponing, and, as a last resort. cancelling. What we are not used to is a shelter in place order with no end date in sight. I've spoken to several couples who are in the planning phase and hesitant about booking vendors, which I completely understand. My advice for everything in life is to always have a Plan B as there are no definitive answers as to how long this quarantine will last and it continues to change day by day. By the time you read this, the latest recommendations will no doubt have changed even more!
Each state is different, obviously, and most of you are aware by now that here in CA, we're one of the nation's hot spots and one of the first states to issue stay at home orders. The closure of state parks, such as Yosemite, further solidify the fact that we tend to more aggressive with closures and social distancing measures.That being said, our May weddings have chosen to postpone until the end of the year and into 2021 and many of our June and July couples have been providing us and their other vendors with alternate dates in the event that the ban extends into summer. As a courtesy, I've halted all 2021 bookings for the time being in order to give precedence to our current couples who need to postpone.
So, what does postponing look like? While everyone is different, many of our couples are choosing an intimate ceremony on their original date in their hometown (just the two of them!) and planning a big bash in 2021 with their family and friends in the original location, or a different one. My heart goes out to all of the couples who have been affected by this, and for those of you who have had to cancel, it's ok and normal to feel a little sad. No matter how you choose to celebrate, or not, this date is special to you so remember that what matters most is that you are healthy and safe and with the one that you love. For those of you who are just starting the planning process, enjoy it! The planning is the fun part, and if you have questions or concerns during this time, I get it and I'm here to help. #yosemitemakeup https://www.yosemitemakeup.com
Stay safe and well!
Melanie
Photo:@sebastienbicard
Makeup & hair: @yosemitemakeup
