37 Hidden Wedding Costs You Need to Budget For (2024)

1. Bridal Party Proposals:Bridal party proposals have become much more intricate than just asking.Now, proposals consist of compiling well thought out gifts or goody bags for thegroomsmen and bridesmaids. It's up to you whether you want to create one of your own, DIY style, or order a pre-made gift from a company.

Advice: Keep your proposal simple andgo withDIY - if that’s your forte! If you need some great ideas, head on over to our blog, featuring25 bridesmaid proposal ideas. Alternatively, if you don't have the time to craft proposal boxes, there are plenty of places you can buy them online.

2. Beauty Treatments:Most brides plan to have theirhair and makeup done for the big day. Something you’ve probably alreadyworked that into your budget. However, there are otherpre-wedding beauty preparations that you might consider. Including teeth whitening, hair coloring, massages, and/or facials. You might also need a few hair and makeup trials, which may or may not be factored into your total.

Advice: Check out some coupon sites,such as Groupon, for great deals on beauty proceduresand salons. You’ll save a ton and have fun trying new places!

3. Bachelorette Party: It’s tradition for the maid-of-honor and/or bridesmaids to pitch in and pay for the bachelorette party. But if you’re going out of town, many brides will pay their own airfare. If you’re expecting a fun getaway, prepare for the possibility that you may have to pay for yourtravel expenses, outfits or luggage.

Advice: Stay close to home!While it’s always fun to travel, there are plenty of fun places to celebrating your bach bash within driving distance. Plus, more of your girls will be able to attend!

4. Pre-Wedding Attire: There are a lot of pre-wedding events that you will have to host and/or attend.Such as the bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, and so on. Most brides aim to wear a different outfit for each event, some of which come with a dress code. Plan the cost of clothinginto your budget, because 4+ outfits aren'tcheap!

Advice: Aim to wear outfits you already own!If you can't resist treating yourself to one new outfit, then have a strict budget. Or cut costs where possible, by wearing accessories from your closet.

5. Alterations: When you’re picking out a bridal gown, don't forget about alterations!Most every dress will require ahem, bustle, and seam adjustment. Expect to pay around $100-500 depending on what you need done. And don’t forget about steaming!

Advice: Shop around! Some seamstresses are more affordable than others, but do just as great of work. Ask your friends/family who they might recommend. If you can't afford alterations, then be sure to purchase a dress that fits you well off the rack.

6. Undergarments: The budget for your gown and bridal accessories, should also include the the cost of undergarments. Thats right, you need specific undergarments for a wedding dress - to hold everything up and define your shape.Depending on the style of your dress and what you’ll need, these items can be costly.

Advice: Buy your dress and have alterations done early on, so that you have enough time to shop around for good deals. Ideally, with the right alterations, you won’t need much more than a long-line bra or bra-cups!

7. Postage:One of the most frequently overlooked costs is postage. And let us be the first to tell you, it adds up fast. Depending on the weight of your engagement announcements and wedding invitations, you will need additional postage. So don’t expect one little stamp to do the trick. Postage can cost upwards of $2 and invitation. Yikes!

Advice: Skip the fancy folded pocket envelopes and consider an online RSVP. You won't have to include an RSVP card orpre-stamped envelope within your invitation suite. The only exception should be elderly relatives, who aren't quite on top of checking their inbox.

8. Overtime Costs: You book your vendors for a certain amount of time, but due to a variety of situationsyou may need them to stay longer! If events are running late or your reception goeslater than planned,you should prepared to pay for their time. If they don't insist on an additional payment, you should at the very least give them a nice tip.

Advice: Get overtime costs in writing and factor in additional time when booking your vendors! Understanding the potential cost ahead of time will help you follow your itinerary to a tee.

9. Clean-up Costs: If you’re paying a flat feeto rent a venue space, expect to pay for clean-up costs. Such as garbage removal and post-reception cleaning. Cleaning costs are usually included in the cost of booking the venue, while others may charge by the hour. Be sure to read your contract carefully, ask about potential fees, and know what to expect!

Advice: Grab a couple friends, or aunts and uncles who are willing to help clean-up after the reception. The staffwon't have to do any extra work and you will save some money.

10. Non-Approved Vendors: Now-a-days, tons of venues have a “preferred vendor” list. This is an exclusive group of vendors who are pre-approved by the venue, who you may or may not be required to choose from. If you have your heart set on a venue that’s outside of this list, don’t be surprised if they expect you to pay more.

Advice: Stick to the list! Otherwise,be sure to book a venue who allows you to work with any wedding vendor. There are too many couples who book a venue and end up forking over even more money to work with outside vendors.

Advice: If the venue offers a catering and bar service, use it! Otherwise, opt for cupcakes over cake, so you don’t have to pay for a cutting fee!

12. Vendor Meals: Your wedding vendors are spending their entire day with you.It's only appropriate that they getfed,just like everyone else! They'll appreciate the thought and work that much harder for you.

Advice: Many venues/caterers offer a cheaper option for vendor meals. Check your contract and make sure you know what they can expect to eat!

Advice: Make sure your band/DJ are familiar with the layout of yourvenue and/or consider hiring from a larger company that are well equipped and. They won’t charge you as much for extra pieces!

14. Rentals & Upgrades:While many venues come with tables, chairs, linens, and place settings, don’t expect them to be anything too fancy! To get the look you really want, you may need to go through a rental company or pay for some upgrades through the venue.

Advice: Try to finda venue that has the total look and feel that you want. Although their rental fee is higher, the overall cost will be cheaper considering it comes with all the bells and whistles that you were hoping for.

15. Servers/Bartenders:While most venues offer a bar service and/or have a liquor license, a bartender may not be included.Same goes for servers! Unless it is stated that they are included in the cost of the venue, then you may have to fork over some more moolah.

Advice: Although the upfront cost might be more expensive, going with a larger rental company (who has their own trucks) could end up saving you money.

17. Tasting Fees:It’s one of the best parts about wedding planning, but it usually comes at a price! Many places charge upwards of$15 for anextra person to attend, so be selective on who you bring.

Advice: Who needs to be there besides you and your spouse? No one. Keep it intimate and keep it cheap!

18. Coat Check:If you’re having a winter wedding, having a coat check is especially important. Unfortunately, many places will charge up to $300 just for a coat-hanging service! Make sure you read your contract carefully and ask questions ahead of time!

Advice: It’s absolutely not necessary unless all of your guests are bundled in their winter coats. But during spring or summer, heck no. Save the money.

19. Wedding Insurance:What is it and do you need it?Insurance comes into play in a variety of ways. Oftenby helping you avoid additional costs due to a cancellation because of unforeseen circ*mstances. But it can also apply to situations like theft of your wedding gifts, orif a guests is injured at your event.

Advice: Shop around and find a company that you find trust-worthy, as well as reasonable in terms of price. Not all insurance is the same, so consider thedifferent options. Specifically what each typedoes and does not cover. Some coverage you may not need, while others would be unwise to pass on.

20. Transportation:If you aren't booking at avenue that functions as a dual ceremony and reception site, howwill you get from once space to the other? What about from the venue to the hotel? Most couple'sbook a limo or shuttle service for the day, and sometimes the night. If you do so, make sure that your guests are aware that it is available.

Advice: Check with your hotel to see if they offer a shuttle service. Otherwise, youmay encourage guests to Uber or work with a private company. Providing transportation is not only a courtesy, but it will help keep you and your guests safe (if you plan on having an open bar).

21. Taxes & Gratuities:You can't avoid taxes, and while you can avoid gratuities, you shouldn't. It's important that you tip your vendors, and factor these expenses into your original budget.

Advice: Don’t skimp on the tips. These people work hard to make sure your day is perfect. If they exceed your expectations or are clearly doing their best, be sure to thank them and show them that they are appreciated.

22. Marriage License:Depending on your state, the cost of a marriage license ranges. Regardless, you have to have one. On average, it will cost upwards of $30.

Advice:If you want to be legally married, it's simple. Get a marriage license!

23. Day-Of Stationary: Day-of stationary consists of programs, escort cards, menus, and signage. You don't have to have all these, so pick the ones that best suit your needs.

Advice: Use the templates available through online retailers to obtain beautiful programs and dinner menus, at a lower price - like VistaPrint.Other elements you could easily DIY, such as your table numbers and signage.

24. Shipping Costs: If you plan on ordering anything for your wedding, then be ready for shipping fees.It might not be a significant amount, but the more you order, the more charges you’ll incur.

25. Out-of-Season Flowers:When it comes to flowers, be prepared to face higher costs for out-of-season plants.Peonies for example are super trendy, but if they’re not in season, they can be up to $20 a stem.

Advice: Opt for in-season alternatives. If you need help, ask your florist for guidance. Usually they can work with a specific budget you provide.If you need some good examples, we have a list of alternative flowers for the five trendiest wedding styles.

26. Bathrooms:Bathrooms are a must-have, whether they are already available on-siteor if they have to be rented. Depending on your budget, you can rent restrooms that are more minimal or luxurious.

Advice: If your guests list is over 100, rent at least 2 restrooms. You can never be too safe when it comes to bathrooms!

27. A Backup Plan for Mother Nature:If you’re having an outdoor ceremony, it’s crucial that you plan for anything. If there’s any chance of rain, be prepared by ordering a tent and siding. Other things you may want to consider are extra lights, flooring, as well as umbrellas or ponchos for your guests.

Advice: Check the weather early and often!If there’s any rain in sight, buy a bulk set of ponchos or umbrellas for both your bridal party and wedding guests.

28. Favors:Wedding favors are optional, but somewhat of a tradition. Favors can vary in price, depending on the item as well as the number of guests you will have in attendance.

Advice:Favors are reported as one of the most wasteful investments that a couple makes for their wedding. It is completely up to you whether to provide them. If you do, we recommend sticking with items that you know will be taken home by your guests. For example, a jam or jelly, a personalized wine glass, or mini liquor bottles.

29. Unexpected Guests:Uninvited guests can be a bummer, but its bound to happen. Some people just don't understand what "you don't get a plus one" means.Make sureto plan for a few extras, just in case!

Advice: Talk with your venue/caterer about how many servings they recommend. Chances are, they’ve dealt with thissituationand have a good idea of what you should order.

30. Hotel Stays:It’s pretty common for the bride and her ‘maids to stay in a hotel room the night before the wedding. Some use the room to get ready for the wedding, or even for the night of the wedding. Unfortunately,hotel rates are pretty high depending on your location.

Advice: Check sites like Groupon, Expedia and Travelocity for current deals or promotions. If you have multiple guests staying in town, take advantage of the rooms that you blocked off to save some money for yourself.

31. Wedding Party Presents:Sometimes bride and grooms like to give gifts to the members of their wedding party.Such as your parents, the flower girl or ring bearer, the groomsmen orbridesmaids, and the ushers. Consider anyonewho played a significant role in your wedding.

Advice: Pinterest is full of great ideas for wedding party presents. Shop around or DIY something personal that you know they will love! A popular item for bridesmaid and groomsmen include personalized koozies. For parents, go with something more sentimental, like handkerchiefs with an embroidered message.

Advice: Hand out welcome bags the night of the reception dinner, or ask a friend or family member staying in the same hotel to help out.

Advice: Have a type-A person in your family? Request that they be your go-to person for phone calls, questions, and keeping the itinerary on schedule. You’ll save tons and they'll appreciate that you though of them.

34. Wedding Day Meals:We're not talking about theco*cktail hour or reception dinner. Rather, what you're going to eat 8-10 hours leading upto the wedding. You and your ‘maids will be busy getting ready so making sure that there’s food to eat is super important for your health and sanity.

Advice: Designate a couple bridesmaids to be in charge of bringing food. Bagels and fruit are perfect for breakfast and sandwiches or an early lunch. If worst comes to worst, order room service! Above all else, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

35. Forgotten Items:It’s the last thing every bride or groom wants to worry about, but it’s SO important to plan for. Whether you get to the venue and realize you’ve forgotten your hosiery, the groom’s socks, or spaced on getting a ring bearer pillow. Have some backup cash for your aunt Sally to make a quick run to the store.

Advice: Start packing at least a week in advance! The things that you are most likely to forget are the little items you keep around the house and can pack ahead of time. Find a wedding day checklist online and get yourself organized!

36. Post-Wedding Tasks:The wedding is over, but there are still fees to incur! Don’t forget that you’ll need to purchasethank you notes,MORE postage, and a gown preservation kit (if you want to preserve your gown).

37. Pre-Honeymoon Expenses: Besides the cost of the honeymoon itself there are other travel fees. Including passports, a travel-guide, language classes, luggage, vacation clothes, and car rentals.All these things areworth adding to your budget!

Advice: Start planning early. Shop for you honeymoon items during the off-season! For example, luggage and summer clothing during the winter.

Hopefullyour list of hidden wedding costs will help you feel better prepared! By understanding the full range of costs and feels, your budget will be more realistic. Plus you will be able to avoid anysurprises! No one ever said that weddings were cheap, but at least you won't be caught off guard.For more help planning yourfinances for the big day, check out our blog on everything you need to discuss before setting a final wedding budget. It even includes a worksheet! What surprise costs have you encountered while planning your wedding so far? Let us know in the comment section below!

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