After you’ve paid for everything for your wedding, the last thing you want to hear is that something unexpected has happened. Worse yet, you just forgot to add something to the budget. Before you get too far in, here are 10 unexpected wedding costs you should include in your budget.
1. Marriage License
With all of the chaos, it can be easy to forget your marriage license. Nothing is worse than planning everything and realizing your union isn’t legally binding until you get this piece of paper. It may not seem like a huge issue, but some marriage licenses can cost up to $115.
2. Postage
If you’re sending wedding invitations by email, then you don’t have to worry, but if you’re shipping anything by postage, consider the cost. After you purchase the post, remember you’ll also have to pay a minimum of 34 cents per postcard.
3. Meals on the Day
Preparing dinner for all of your guests following the reception is the main meal on everyone’s mind. Of course, it’s difficult to remember that you also have to eat before dinner. Sure, you can grab some local fast food, but that will still cut into your budget.
4. Alterations
If you’re incredibly lucky, the clothing for the wedding will be perfect. Unfortunately, not everyone can be as fortunate. On average, a bride alone can expect to spend anywhere from $75 to $250 on alternations for the big day.
5. Unexpected Guests
You have a schedule set for 125 guests—no more, no less. That’s probably a bad idea. If everyone attends, you may still have an unexpected guest here or there. Maybe someone couldn’t find a babysitter or a guest brought a last minute date. Prepare for the unexpected and have enough food and welcome gifts for a few extra guests.
6. Meals for Vendors
The last thing that goes through your mind concerning your photographer and the live band is that they better show up. If your wedding lasts more than a couple of hours, you should consider serving your vendors food as well, especially if the event lasts eight hours.
7. Extra Décor
Of course, flowers are included in the budget, but what about everything else? Candles, doilies, and all the extra décor can add up quickly, which can be a problem if they’re already an unexpected cost. Have more funds on hand for the beautiful fall pumpkins you totally forgot.
8. Gratuity
After you’ve spent hundreds of dollars on vendors, the last thing you want to do is tip on top of that, but it’s considered impolite not to do so. If you aren’t sure about gratuity, here is a complete guide on how to tip wedding vendors by Bridal Guide.
9. Overtime
Things happen at weddings that you may not expect, and before you know it your five-hour wedding is now turning into an eight-hour event. You need to plan in the case that you have to pay your staff a little extra in overtime even if you’re absolutely positive that your timing will not go over.
10. Yourselves
With the 125 guests, did you remember to include yourselves? It’s easy to forget about yourself when you’re planning your wedding. It’s your big day, but at the same time, you’re feeding your friends and family. Don’t forget to provide food, gifts, and fun for yourself!
