Unexpected wedding expenses are never fun. It’s hard enough to plan for well known expenses, but those that are unexpected? Even harder!
The thing about unexpected wedding expenses is that, when you know, you know. And, in some cases, you can even avoid the expense altogether. Simply by being aware of what you’re getting into will help. For example, you can change course if needed. Or, you may change your mind about something you once wanted at your wedding. If you can’t avoid an expense, at least you’ll be able to plan for it.
If you know up front and early what costs may come up at your wedding, you’ll be more in control of your wedding planning. Yes, you may have to come up with ways to cover all the costs, but at least you’ll know what to expect. I promise that this will make life easier as you get closer to your wedding.
13 Unexpected Wedding Expenses You Should Plan For
This post is going to lay out 13 unexpected wedding expenses you should plan for. It will go over what is avoidable, and what’s unavoidable. I’ll share tips to minimize each and every expense. For some weddings, it will be easy to save on the unexpected wedding expenses. In others, it won’t be. Look at each tip and decide what will work for your wedding and plan accordingly.
Let’s get into it!
1. SALES TAX
Depending on where you are, sales tax can really add up.
Sales tax is just about everywhere. And, when it comes to weddings, it’s added to just about everything. From your clothes, to your food, drinks, and décor, sales tax is a lovely little add-on to what you’re already spending. And, well, it can be taxing.
My advice, if you want to minimize sales tax? Spend less overall.
I mean it. The less you spend, the less tax you’ll have to pay. The only other option that you may have is to get married in a place that has lower taxes than another place. For example, where I live in California, sales tax can vary from county to county. Just another thing to look at to reduce costs.
2. MAIL POSTAGE
Unless you are going all digital, mail postage can be an unexpected wedding expense that adds up very quickly.
Think about it. You may be mailing all of your guests save the dates, invitations, providing postage for RSVP’s, and then sending them thank you cards. Each and every one of those mailers will have additional costs for postage on them. And, if you’re sending mail internationally, the cost is even more.
So, how do you keep the costs of postage low? Make your mail as light as possible. Have everything weighed at the post office to make sure you’re using the correct postage. Send things digital, if that’s your style. And, always, always, always double check your addresses before you send anything. Having to send something twice because it got lost in the mail or someone moved means more money for postage.
3. GOWN AND SUIT ALTERATIONS
We all know that wedding clothes can cost a pretty penny, but were you expecting the cost of alterations?
The thing is, you want your wedding attire to fit like a glove. Even the prettiest gowns can look awful if they are loose, or be terribly uncomfortable if they are too tight. Alterations are an essential piece of the puzzle, but they can add up.
In order to save on alterations, try and order outfits that will fit you as best as possible. Don’t anticipate gaining or losing weight before your wedding (unless you’re pregnant or something like that). Be realistic with what you order. Also, keep embellishments to a minimum. Sleeves, belts, and bustles can be unexpected wedding expenses you may not be prepared to pay for.
For more tips on alterations, check out this post.
4. SHAPEWARE
Are you aware of what shapeware is? Well, it’s what you wear under your clothes. And, it, too, can be an unexpected wedding expense.
If your wedding gown is form fitting, you may want to wear some shapewear under it to help smooth your figure. For many women, you’ll want to wear a supportive bra under your dress. In either scenario, it’s imperative that the undergarments do what they are supposed to do. This may mean that they are expensive, or even built into your gown.
If you’d like to try and minimize this wedding expense, see if you can buy a gown that already has support built into it. You can also choose certain frames or fabrics that are more “forgiving”, if you will.
5. VENDOR MEALS
Did you know that you need to feed your vendors?
Not only is providing food to your vendors the right thing to do, it might be stipulated in your contracts with them. This may mean that anyone who is at your reception needs a meal. For example, you could have photographers, videographers, planners, coordinators, officiants, and servers. Those meals can add up.
When you look for a caterer, ask about vendor meals. Some may offer vendor options that are of lower cost than guest meals.
6. GIFTS FOR YOUR WEDDING PARTY
Your wedding party is likely doing a lot for your wedding. It’s important that you thank them in some way, shape, or form.
For some wedding parties, this means receiving a gift. Of course, the cost of the gift is up to you. It could be as elaborate and expensive as you feel comfortable with. The point is that the gift is well liked by your wedding party and makes them feel appreciated. So, put some thought into the gifts that you will give. Will an expensive bracelet be better liked than a customized wine glass? Take some time to brainstorm what makes sense for your wedding party, and for your budget.
If you want some tips on what to give your wedding party, check out this post.
7. TIPS / GRATUITITES
I’ve said it time and time again. Tips and gratuities can add up.
In some cases, they may be built right into the price of your wedding day items. In others, they are added on. Here’s the thing. Always set aside some money for tips. Just plan on it. If you need help determining what, and who, to tip, this is the post for you. Remember, there are alternative ways to thank a vendor, too, such as leaving reviews and referring others to them.
8. INCLEMENT WEATHER
Are you getting married outside? Are you prepared for bad weather? If not, you may find that you need a tent. And, it can cost a lot of money.
In some locations, the weather can be very predicable. And, in others, it can be a disaster waiting to happen. Plan ahead for bad weather. Brainstorm alternative locations where you can hold your ceremony and reception, if the weather is terrible. Go ahead and price out tent options. Be prepared to pay for one, if needed, but know how to get the least expensive one for your needs ahead of your wedding day.
9. RENTALS
Are you getting married at a blank slate wedding venue? Or, just want to upgrade what your venue offers? If so, you’ll be looking at the costs of rentals very soon.
I’m talking about rented plates, chairs, silverware, linens, glasses, installations, and even dance floors. The more guests you have, the more you’ll spend on rentals. And, it can definitely all add up.
If you want to save on rentals, look for a venue that provides everything, and you like how it all looks. Or, price out buying items yourself and then re-selling them after your wedding. Check out this post for tips on selling your used wedding items.
10. DELIVERY, SET UP, & TRANSPORTATION FEES
When I got married unexpected wedding costs that are added onto rentals shocked me. Not only are you renting certain goods for your wedding, but you’re also paying a lot more for the logistics to get them to you.
Having vendors deliver items in specific windows, especially on weekend nights, means that you’ll be paying even more to have them delivered. In some cases, it can be the bulk of what you pay them. So, always, always, always ask about extra fees. Look at your contracts. See if there are ways to avoid delivery or set up fees, and get creative.
11. LIGHTING
Lighting is a big deal at weddings. In some cases, you want to set the mood. In others, you legitimately need to have a way for your guests to see what’s happening.
If you are getting married outside, in the evening, you may not be able to avoid lighting. It may even be an after-thought, when you get close to your wedding. And, it can be a big shock when you learn how much lighting can cost.
Here’s the thing. If you want to avoid paying for lighting, get married in the daytime, or indoors. Or, look for a venue that provides it for you and bakes the cost into your contract.
If you want to learn more about wedding lighting, this is a recent post I wrote about it.
12. WEDDING INSURANCE
A lot of things can go wrong at weddings. This is why wedding insurance is a good thing to have. In fact, it may even be a requirement from your venue.
Even if your venue doesn’t require insurance, you should still get it. Call your car or home insurance company, and see if they offer event insurance. Or, look up policies online. This unexpected wedding expense can usually be obtained for about $100 to $200, and it’s well worth it. Insurance will cover larger, bigger expenses if something goes wrong, so don’t skip this one.
13. TRANSPORTATION
Getting to and from your wedding can be an unexpected wedding expense.
I know many people have visions of showing up, in style, to their wedding, but this isn’t always feasible. Transportation costs can add up. Even if you’re driving yourself, there’s the cost of gas, tolls, and parking that you may have to contend with.
My advice? Do your research about your options. Don’t leave it all to the last minute. Also, share tips on transportation options with your guests. They will thank you later for it.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
Unexpected wedding expenses happen at just about every wedding. The key to avoiding being surprised is to always plan ahead. Look at your contracts. Do your research. Put away some contingency funds. Be prepared for the unexpected, even if you’re not quite sure why yet. You’ve got this! Happy wedding planning!
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