The Changelings could not survive like this. The need to feed on love required them to be in close proximity to the ones that knew those they were trying to replace best, and consequently, those that were most likely to unmask them. They could not abide. This is why Chrysalis developed the most ambitious plan ever. They would capture the most beloved Pony in all Ponydom, but first, they had to take a lesser Princess.
A look at the events leading up to the Canterlot Wedding Incident.