The Hidden Costs of Weddings

You have set the wedding budget, got all your bases covered, know what’s to be paid, how much it is going to cost – you’re in good shape – or are you? Planning and sticking to a wedding budget is a difficult task at the best of times but what about all those hidden extras that you didn’t know about let alone think about. Elements, such as price increases between booking and the actual event can raise their head leaving your original budget (which you thought was 100%) looking distinctly unrealistic. So, what can you do to avoid this? Simple – ensure you factor the potential hidden costs into your budget at an early stage to minimise budget meltdown. So what elements do you really need to consider?

Increases in quoted prices: Some wedding venues and caterers will add on a yearly increase– be sure to get your quotes to reflect any potential yearly price increases. If you are booking too far in advance for solid quotes add a conservative 5% increase budget to account for this. It is doubtful the venue or wedding service provider will give you an absolute amount if you are booking more than 18 months in advance.

VAT excluded: Don’t get caught out by quotes that don’t include VAT – its 15%. Double check that all quotes and prices include this and that it doesn’t get added to your final bill.

Venue extras: Are you sure the chair covers that you saw at the room setup are included in the price? What about table plans, menus, linen – do these come with the deal. Brochure prices may not cover everything so don’t assume anything. Ask questions and ensure you compile a venue checklist covering all the questions.

Corkage: Think you have got a good deal with your venue where you can supply your own beverages – well corkage is a key factor to consider. At times that can be as much as letting the caterer or the venue supply the drinks for you so best to be sure. Corkage rates vary significantly so work out what is the best option for you.

The Marriage license: You know you need to pay for the ceremony and the venue however you also need to stump up more cash for the legal side. Factor in approximately £120 to ensure you have the license on the day. It’s crucial – you can’t get married with out it

Tips on the day: You’ve got a minister, the drivers, the waiting staff – tips are expected! Remember that on the day tips are usually given to key staff. Work out what you believe is an appropriate amount and add in to the extras.

Paying for all those trials: Hair trials, makeup trials for weddings– all cost money. You may have multiple trials and therefore this can end up costing a few hundred pounds, more if you are an ever generous bride paying for their bridesmaids too.

Wedding insurance: It’s becoming an increasingly popular choice for couples to protect themselves as much as possible from potential wedding disasters. Sometimes it’s left late in the day and is an unexpected addition to your budget. Think about this early on and look at what wedding insurance suppliers are on the market ensuring you read the small print.

Alterations: Many bridal shops will charge fees for altering your and your bridesmaid’s gowns. Prices vary significantly and it may be more prudent to find an alternative specialist to make the changes for you. Ensure you know up front exactly what the costs are and add it to the price of the dresses – don’t base it on the tag price.

Samples: Ordering wedding stationary and favours online is a great way to get fabulous handmade invites and bespoke favour creations – you want to see how they look though and then you are ordering samples. Costs for post and packaging can add up – especially if you are ordering from multiple suppliers. Be sure to do lots of research, and narrow down your supplier list as much as possible. Order from a single supplier if you can to help reduce the overall costs.

Honeymoons: Honeymoons are really part of the wedding budget and should be included. When looking at honeymoon destinations really shop around. Ensure that the price you see is really reflecting the true cost. Deals can be inviting but remember to include travel insurance and taxes which are may not be advertised.

Post wedding: You’ve had a wonderful day but there are a few things that still need wrapped up. Elements such as wedding dress cleaning or perhaps you want to preserve your wedding bouquet. There are specialist companies who provide full services for cleaning your wedding gown but it can quite be pricey. Expect to pay as much as £150 for a fully boxed, cleaned gown.

When setting you wedding budget, be realistic and remember to keep tabs along the way. Do research and find out how much the items you want are likely to cost, and importantly, give you a figure that reflects the potential total cost – there is no point in allocating a random number when in the end it is 2 or 3 times that amount. Be sure to include some contingency – extras are inevitable and at least 10% should be added to your budget to account for these. Don’t run out and spend, spend, spend – refer to the budget when deciding and always check what that impact will be. If you plan your budget well up front you will reap the rewards and your wedding planning will be much more enjoyable experience.