Whilst most couples are keenly aware of the big expenses like the venue and catering, there are some sneaky hidden costs that can creep up and swipe a chunk out of your budget. But fear not, here’s a few of the often-overlooked costs of wedding planning and how to avoid them.

Alterations and Fittings: The Dress and Suit Curveball

So you’ve found the perfect wedding dress or suit, and it fits like a dream. Or so you thought. Enter the world of alterations. It’s a common story—what seems like a minor tweak can quickly become a major expense. Whether it’s adjusting the hemline or taking in the waist, alterations can add up.

Costs: Depending on the complexity of the changes, alterations can range from £50 to £300. It’s a good idea to budget for this from the get-go.

Tips for Managing: Start early! Book your fittings well in advance and be clear about what changes might be needed. Sometimes, it’s worth negotiating with the boutique to include a few alterations in the initial price. Planning ahead will help avoid last-minute surprises.

Gratuities and Tips: The Unsung Heroes

Whilst tipping isn’t expected, it’s not something you should perhaps dismiss entirely.

Costs: Many vendors include a service charge in their final bill and this can range from 10-15% of the total cost. However, rather than assuming, it’s a good idea to check your contract or bill carefully to see if it's mentioned explicitly as a service charge.

Tips for Managing: Whilst the ‘bigger’ expenses may already include service charges, smaller, more discretionary tips to waitstaff, delivery and set-up teams are often much appreciated. You could also look to your guests to give a little help too by leaving a few tip jars around the venue. 

Taxes and Service Fees: The Unexpected Add-Ons

In the excitement of planning, it’s easy to overlook the small print. But taxes and service fees can turn a bargain into a budget-buster if you’re not careful.

Costs: From VAT on venue rentals to service charges for catering, these hidden costs can vary widely. It’s not uncommon to see an additional 10-20% tacked onto your final bill.

Tips for Managing: Always read the fine print of your contracts. Ask vendors upfront about any additional fees and include these in your budget calculations. A little due diligence here can go a long way towards avoiding any little ‘shocks’!

Emergency Fund: The Safety Net You Didn’t Know You Needed

No matter how meticulously you plan, sometimes things don’t go as expected! From weather-related hiccups to last-minute cancellations, having a cushion or back-up can save the day.

Costs: Emergencies can be as varied as needing a last-minute replacement for a broken bouquet or dealing with unexpected venue issues. The cost can range from £100 right up to the cost of re-organising the big day depending on the situation.

Tips for Managing: For smaller things, a contingency budget of around 5-10% is a good rule of thumb. And it’s a good idea to also consider wedding insurance. This can cover a range of situations, like cancellation, re-arrangement, suppliers going bust … and more. Often a small price to pay for peace of mind given the average wedding costs around £20,000. 

So there you have it, hidden costs that can catch even the most organised couple off guard. But with some smart planning and a little foresight, you can avoid any little budget speed bumps and keep your expenses on track!