Unexpected wedding costs

Anyone who’s ever planned a wedding will tell you it’s no walk in the park. There’s a lot to plan – and a lot of pay for. At a glance, there’s the venue, the dresses and suits, the food and drinks… the list goes on (check out our full wedding budget breakdown). But then there are the sometimes small, sometimes big unexpected expenses that can catch couples off guard and end up leaving them over budget. We’ve put together a brief list of some of the items you might want to factor into your wedding budget.

Be prepared for hidden expenses

Wedding outfit alterations: While you've set aside a budget for your dream wedding dress or suit, don't forget to account for alterations. Unless your garments have been custom-made, you’ll likely require some degree of adjusting to ensure a perfect fit. Alteration costs can vary depending on the complexity of the pieces and the skill of the dressmaker or tailor.

Invitations and thank-you cards: Sending out invitations and thank-you cards is a significant expense that's often underestimated. Not only do you need to account for the cost of the stationery itself, but also the postage. Invitations, save-the-dates, and thank-you cards can quickly add up, especially if you're planning a large wedding. Remember, one stamp is $1.50 (as of June 2024) – multiply that by the number of invitations you plan to send, and you’ll need another chunk of money to pay for it.

Beauty expenses: Looking and feeling your best on your wedding day often involves beauty treatments and wellness services. Unexpected costs may crop up here, such as last-minute facials, haircuts or even emergency dermatological appointments. To avoid surprises, allocate a small budget for these extras.

Weather contingency expenses: If you're planning an outdoor wedding, it's vital to have a plan B in case of bad weather. Renting a tent, securing an indoor venue, or purchasing umbrellas can all add significant costs to your budget. It’s always best to be prepared for these expenses, even if you're crossing your fingers for sunshine.

Transportation: Transportation for the bridal party and guests is often an overlooked cost. If your ceremony and reception venues are not nearby, you may need to arrange transportation. Whether it's a shuttle bus, limousine or horse-drawn carriage, you’ll need considerable money for this part of your big day.

Decor expenses: Decorations are probably something you’ve already budgeted for but there can be unforeseen decor costs. Items like extension cords, hooks or additional lighting can add up quickly. Ensure your budget has some flexibility to cover these small yet essential details so your venue looks and feels just how you dreamt it.

To make sure your special day goes off without a financial hitch, it's essential to budget for the sneaky unexpected wedding expenses that tend to pop up. By giving yourself a buffer, you can enjoy your wedding day with peace of mind, knowing you've covered all your bases. 

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