My fiance and I are having a destination wedding (in Charleston, S.C. where we live) and only our best friends and immediate family are attending (about 24 people). We then planned a large 100+ person reception in our hometown to celebrate with all of our friends and extended families. Save the dates went out last May and the reception is planned for May 2019. Well, since then, I'd had multiple deaths in my immediate family plus some health complications. Nothing is planned and we have decided to cancel the reception (but still marry as planned in Charleston). It's been a hard decision but our family has been stretched so thin with stress and grief we truly feel like this is the best decision for us all.
When it comes to canceling... do I have to give reasoning or can I simply say:
"As many of you know, we have had a very difficult year as a family. Due to these circumstances, we have decided to marry in a private ceremony in Charleston and cancel our reception originally planned for (insert date and location). We realize we have asked you to save the date and we sincerely apologize for the inconvenience. This has been a very difficult decision and we hope you understand. We love you all unconditionally and thank you for your love and support."
I feel TERRIBLE and guilty for having to do this, but as I said, it's been a crappy year, to say the least, and I just want to marry the man of my dreams and move on with our lives. The decision is made so I am hoping to receive some feedback on how the letter sounds (not whether or not we should do it).
Thank you!
- J