The Hidden Costs of Weddings (and How to Budget for Them)
Planning your dream wedding is exciting, but it’s no secret that costs can add up quickly. While most couples budget for the big-ticket items like venue, catering, and photography, many forget about the hidden costs of weddings that can sneak up along the way. These surprise expenses can easily push you over budget if you’re not prepared.
As a wedding planner, I’ve seen couples caught off guard by these fees more than once. To help you plan with confidence, here are the most common hidden wedding costs (and how to budget for them).
1. Service Charges and Gratuities
Your catering proposal might not include the additional 20–25% service fee that most venues add to the final bill. On top of that, gratuity for waitstaff, bartenders, and other vendors may also be expected.
Budget Tip: Ask every vendor if their quote includes tax, service charges, and gratuity upfront. Build in at least 20% cushion for these add-ons.
2. Delivery and Setup Fees
Whether it’s rentals, flowers, or furniture, delivery and setup fees often show up on your final invoice. And if your wedding runs late, pickup after midnight can come with an extra charge.
Budget Tip: Confirm the delivery window, setup time, and pickup terms with every vendor. Some may waive fees if they can deliver during off-peak hours.
3. Overtime Costs
If your party is going strong past your contracted end time, expect additional charges. DJs, photographers, and videographers usually charge by the hour—and overtime isn’t cheap!
Budget Tip: Build your timeline with realistic buffer time so you don’t pay extra. Ask vendors for their overtime rates in advance.
4. Marriage License and Officiant Fees
A small but often forgotten cost: your marriage license. Depending on your county, fees can range from $50–$120. Don’t forget to also budget for your officiant, especially if you’re hiring a professional.
Budget Tip: Check your local county clerk’s website for current marriage license fees and requirements.
5. Alterations and Styling Touches
That dream dress or suit rarely comes ready-to-wear. Alterations, steaming, or pressing can add several hundred dollars. The same goes for small touches like a veil, accessories, or cufflinks.
Budget Tip: Factor in at least 10–15% of your attire budget for alterations and extras.
6. Permits and Insurance
Planning a beach wedding, park ceremony, or backyard celebration? You may need permits, and many venues require event insurance. These aren’t major costs, but they’re essential (and easy to forget).
Budget Tip: Ask your venue if they require liability insurance and research permit requirements early.
7. Vendor Meals
If you have vendors staying through dinner (think photographers, planners, and DJs), you’ll need to feed them. Vendor meals typically cost less than guest plates, but with 5–10 vendors, it adds up.
Budget Tip: Ask your caterer for a vendor meal option when reviewing your catering proposal.
8. Post-Wedding Expenses
From thank-you cards and postage to dry cleaning your wedding dress, costs don’t always end when the night does. Some couples also cover hotel rooms for out-of-town guests or family.
Budget Tip: Set aside a small portion of your budget for these after-wedding details.
Final Thoughts
The truth is, weddings come with more than just the headline costs. By preparing for these hidden wedding expenses, you’ll save yourself the stress of last-minute surprises and stay in control of your budget.
At VowHaus Creative, we offer full-service planning, which includes budgeting. We help couples navigate every detail, including the costs you might not expect, so your wedding day feels seamless and stress-free! Contact us today!
