Life doesn’t always go as planned, and sometimes that means having to step away from a wedding you’ve already spent time, money, and heart preparing. Whether due to a change of heart, shifting circumstances, or unforeseen events, you’re not alone — and your wedding plans don’t have to go to waste.
Selling your pre-planned wedding is a smart way to recover costs and give another couple the chance to enjoy a day you once envisioned. Here’s everything you need to know to do it successfully:
1. Take Inventory of What You’ve Booked
Before creating a listing, gather all the details of what you’ve already secured:
- Venue: Name, location, date, time, and any included amenities (e.g., chairs, tables, staff).
- Vendors: Caterers, photographers, DJs, florists, coordinators, and what services they’re providing.
- Other Services: Officiants, planners, transportation, or accommodations.
- Payment Info: What’s already been paid? Is it transferable? Are there cancellation fees?
The more transparent and detailed you are, the more trust you’ll build with potential buyers.
2. Contact Your Vendors and Venue
Before listing anything, contact each vendor and the venue to confirm:
- Whether the booking is transferable
- Any fees or name change requirements
- The deadline for making changes
Most vendors and venues are used to adjustments, and many will allow for a transfer with minimal hassle — especially if it means they still get paid.
3. Create a Listing on Altared Plans
Altared Plans is the only platform built specifically for reselling reserved weddings. Create a free listing by:
- Giving your wedding a clear and enticing title
(e.g., “Chic Downtown Boston Wedding – August 22, 2025”) - Including all key details: venue name, date, vendor list, pricing breakdown
- Adding photos, especially of the venue or inspiration for the day
- Stating your asking price and what’s included (this price should be the total contracted price minus the discount you are giving on your listing)
- Explaining why you’re selling (briefly and honestly — it helps buyers relate)
4. Set a Realistic Price
While it’s tempting to try and recover everything you’ve spent, remember buyers are looking for a deal. Most successful listings offer a 20–50% discount off what the seller originally paid.
Bonus: If your vendors are hard to book or your date is in a high-demand season, you might be able to hold firm on pricing.
5. Be Responsive and Open
Once your listing is live, respond to inquiries quickly. Buyers will want reassurance that:
- The transfer process will be smooth
- The vendors or venue are easy to work with
- They’re truly getting value
Some users even offer to assist with the hand-off, like introducing the buyer to vendors or sharing timelines and ideas.
6. Close the Deal and Transfer Everything
Once you’ve agreed on a price:
- Use a written agreement outlining what’s included and the transfer terms
- Notify all vendors/venue of the name change
- Confirm the buyer has made payments or deposits to assume the booking
Altared Plans doesn’t manage transactions, so we recommend using a secure payment method and confirming everything in writing.
You’re Helping Another Couple Say “I Do”
Selling your pre-planned wedding isn’t just about recovering money — it’s about giving someone else a beautiful opportunity. What once felt like a loss can become someone else’s dream come true.
If you’re ready to list your wedding, get started here — it’s completely free to post on Altared Plans.
Comments