Hidden Wedding Expenses, Vendors Advice from OurWeddingDay.com

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Hidden Wedding Expenses

Often Forgotten Fees and "Extras"

As you get closer to your big day, the last thing you’ll want is surprise wedding expenses. Even though the planning process should be fun and exciting, it’s best that you confront any budget issues or possible costs that could pop up out of nowhere before they even materialize. If you’re prepared for the following hidden wedding costs, you won’t be caught off guard right before one of the most special days of your life.

Tips: A lot of couples forget to factor tips into their wedding budgets. Make a list of every vendor you’ll use for your wedding and add gratuity to his or her fee if you haven’t already. Include the limousine driver, DJ, space rental, caterer, flower arranger, etc.
Tax: The larger the fee, the more tax you’ll have to pay. When you hire wedding vendors make sure to have them give you a service quote that includes the tax. This will allow you to avoid a much larger bill than expected.
Marriage License: Every bill adds up, including the marriage license fee which typically costs $75. Also keep in mind that you’ll need to take time off work to get the license—add that and gas money to the final bill.
Dress & Tux Alterations: When factoring your wedding dress and tuxedo expenses, don’t forget alteration costs. Most wedding dresses and tuxes require some alterations, so add those costs to your budget before you purchase your wedding attire.
Postage: Depending upon how hefty your guest list is, your cost for postage stamps will vary. When factoring postage into your wedding budget, include costs to send save the date announcements, wedding invitation, and thank you notes.
Insurance: This is a cost that most couples don’t think of until after disaster strikes. Consider purchasing wedding and honeymoon insurance in case you have to cancel them at the last minute. Emergencies occur and a wedding can be called off unexpectedly. For example, if you are planning to honeymoon in an exotic location, be prepared for a natural disaster that could prevent you from taking your trip.
Overtime: Though unexpected, your wedding reception could go overtime. Be prepared to pay extra for DJ services or hall rental.
Coat Check: This extra cost is especially imperative for winter wedding budgets. Coat check services require a coat attendant at the beginning and end of the evening which adds to your costs.

When planning your wedding budget, it’s better to be safe than sorry. This will allow you to spend most of your time enjoying your day rather than dealing with unexpected costs that could dampen your wedding mood.