The Wedding is Off: Now What?

As we approach the end of February, we also approach the end of engagement season. According to WeddingWire, nearly 40% of engagements will happen between the months of November and February. In fact, Valentine’s Day ranks as one of the Top 10 most popular days to get engaged. In spite of best intentions, however, not all engagements (including those on Valentine’s Day) will lead to marriage.

So then the questions include-, what happens if the ring is sized, the reception hall booked, the flowers ordered, the dress purchased, and the wedding is ultimately called off? Who pays what? Who keeps the ring? Can you get your money back?

The average length of engagement in the United States is between 12 and 13 months. During this time couples are eagerly planning every detail of their big day from the centerpieces to the three-tiered wedding cake. With this exciting planning also comes the payment of many deposits and wedding vendor contracts.

The first practical thing that couples who end their engagement should do is try to stop the financial bleeding. Promptly contact the vendors, suppliers, and venues to notify them of the cancelled wedding. The sooner you notify, the more likely you are to recoup any refunds or credits available.

Prior to 2016, Illinois had a “Breach of Promise Act” which addressed who should be responsible for what costs if the wedding did not make it down the aisle. Under this Act, Illinois treated marriage like a contract in which two persons promise to hold up their end of the bargain. As of January 1, 2016, however, Illinois abolished the Breach of Promise Act. Therefore, if you and your ex-fiancé currently live in Illinois, you are out of luck, unless you and your fiancé have devised your own plan to handle engagement expenses.