You are getting married—congratulations! Now, prepare to have your wedding budget explode. Just think of Steve Martin in Father of the Bride and you will start to see what I mean.
There are plenty of predictable costs in planning a wedding: renting a venue, enlisting a good photographer, the cost of food and drinks, hiring a DJ, etc. Turns out all of these things are more expensive than I would have predicted. (Does anyone else think there is a 25% premium added as soon as you say “wedding”?) Yet most people budget for them. But what about the surprise costs? Here are some of the top wedding expenses that even a neurotic planner (like myself) can completely underestimate.
Five Hidden Wedding Costs—And Five Ways to Save
- Transportation: Are you planning on shuttling your guests to and from the venue? You may be surprised to learn that many bus rental companies have strict minimums on how many hours you must book them, so even if you use a bus for only one or two trips, the cost is for a block of hours.
Cost Saver: Look into renting school buses—many districts will rent these out at a fraction of the cost of a charter bus. Plus, it’s a hipper way to go.
- Paper Products: As much as I want to go digital for everything, I recognize that my 89-year-old grandmother is not going to be able to RSVP online. If you opt to use paper, make sure you factor in the cost of the sheer amount you could end up needing. This includes various invitations, “save the dates,” table cards, menus, programs and thank-you cards.
Cost Saver: Avoid the expensive calligraphers and use one of the online options like Minted or Etsy. You get to customize everything for less while supporting artists.
- Insurance: Most venues require extra liability insurance to host an event. If you are renting other equipment separately, the venues will want you to get even more insurance (cleverly disguised as a “damage waiver”). If you rent plates and glassware, prepare to add an extra 5–15% to your rental cost for breakage.
Cost Saver: You can get a better deal by using your homeowners or renters insurance policy to cover you on the day of your wedding. Contact your insurance agent and ask if you can add the wedding venue as a temporary insured.
- Gifts for Guests: Offering your guests “welcome bags” when they check into their hotel is apparently de rigueur, as are gifts at the actual the wedding. Even the cheapest gifts can add up (particularly if you have my family).
Cost Saver: Less can be more. Keep it simple, and don’t break the bank on this one. Most people think it is the thought that counts.
- Extra Events: If you plan on doing a rehearsal dinner before and/or a celebration after the wedding, get ready to add on even more costs. Another day of rentals, food and refreshments is a sure way to drive up costs.
Cost Saver: Opting for a casual BBQ or taco truck can be a great way to make your dollars go further while creating a relaxed atmosphere.
Have a Budget, But Plan for the Unexpected
Weddings can easily get out of control, and there is really no limit as to how much you can spend. If you have a strict budget, make sure to leave some room in it for the surprise costs that inevitably pop up. Instead of following your friends, figure out what will bring you the most enjoyment and spend your money there.
As for me, I’m just hoping that my guests do not break too many glasses.
