25 Mar 2020

 There is so much to think about and consider when one is planning for any celebration of a milestone in their life, be it a wedding or a birthday party, no matter the date it falls on. 

But it is now a big problem if the date falls within a period of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The panic does not only affect those celebrating, the décor and/or events planners also get into a panic mode. 

There has been much uncertainties for those planning to have their wedding or party celebrations in the next month or two with the Covid-19 pandemic outbreak. 

People are left with a choice to either cancel or postpone whilst waiting for the pandemic to wear off or clear. 

When Tsholofelo Sello had to postpone her 50th birthday celebration which is coming this March 28th, she along with her family felt sad but they had to comply with precautionary measures in place. 

A 50th birthday is one of the most important birthdays a person has in their life, it is a milestone and accomplishment, and the person being honored deserves all the love from friends and family.

“It is a global pandemic and no one was surprised by the postponement, all of us have to compromise and comply,” stated Sello. 

She has been planning this day, preparing decorations, finding the perfect venue, locking down a DJ, creating playlist, and nailing down her perfect menu fit for a 50th birthday celebration. 

Initially, Sello said she was satisfied with 100 and/or 50 people but when new information came of 10 people gathering, she lost hope and resorted to postponing. 

As most things were already paid for, Ms Sello noted that she engaged the décor company and they reached an agreement of setting new dates when the virus wears off. 

For those that were supposed to be getting married during this uncertain time, their only contingency plan is to postpone especially if dates have been set closer to this period. The Nthutang family in Goodhope were scheduled to marry their daughter in April 18th, but had to postpone due to COVID-19. 

“It was a sad decision to take, but everyone in the family understood the circumstances of postponement,” stated mother of the bride, Marea Nthutang. She noted that they also had a discussion with the décor company regarding the deposit they paid, that they will arrange for a new date post COVID-19.

Siege Events Director Segametsi Kgari shared her dilemma as this pandemic continue to impact on their business. “I had three events booked for March, one wedding and two parties but they were either cancelled or postponed,” noted Kgari. 

Kgari indicated that not only does cancellation or postponement affect their business, but reducing numbers also affect their pricing and eventually business. 

Gaborone acting District Commissioner Ms Mpho Bungile noted that they do not have any wedding cancellations, but only advised couples to bring less numbers when they come for nuptial signings. 

She also indicated that those who bless their marriages at church have been given an alternative to sign on Wednesday rather than Thursday as is norm. ends