Expect the Unexpected: Last minute wedding expenses to plan for
You've spent months meticulously planning every aspect of your dream wedding, from the color scheme to the menu. But amidst all the excitement and anticipation, there are some unexpected expenses lurking around the corner that might catch you off guard. Fear not, though, because we're here to shed some light on these wedding day curveballs in a way that'll make you laugh and maybe even breathe a sigh of relief.
Unexpected Weather Gear: You've been dreaming of an outdoor ceremony since the day you got engaged, but Mother Nature has other plans. Suddenly, you find yourself scrambling to rent umbrellas or even last-minute tents to keep your guests dry. Hey, at least it'll make for some memorable wedding photos, right? Pro tip for all you amazon prime lovers: buy the umbrellas online within 30 days of your wedding, if you don’t need them, you can return them!
Late-Night Cravings: After a day filled with love, laughter, and maybe a few happy tears, you'll likely work up an appetite. But wait, didn't you already plan out the catering menu? Turns out, late-night cravings can strike when you least expect them. Consider having a stash of midnight snacks like pizza or sliders to keep the party going until the wee hours of the morning. You can coordinate to have a space with most hotels and they will have a space waiting for you with food when you return from the wedding for the after party!
Parking Predicaments: You've found the perfect venue, but what about parking? Turns out, parking fees can add up faster than you can say "just married." Warn your guests in advance, or better yet, arrange for a shuttle service to transport everyone safely to and from the venue. Plus, it'll give them one less thing to worry about after indulging in that open bar. This is extra important if you have a wedding venue or church in a city or somewhere the only parking options might be metered parking or a parking garage.
Vendor Overtime Fees: Your vendors are there to make your day magical, but sometimes, things run longer than expected. Cue the overtime fees! Make sure to factor in potential extra hours for your photographer, DJ, and any other hired help so you can dance the night away without worrying about breaking the bank.
Lost or Forgotten Items: With so much excitement and activity on your wedding day, it's easy for items to get misplaced or forgotten. Whether it's your vows, the marriage license, or essential personal items, consider budgeting for any potential replacement costs or last-minute purchases to ensure everything goes smoothly on the big day.
Last-Minute Vendor Tips: You've budgeted for the photographer, the florist, and the DJ, but what about those unexpected vendor tips? It's like playing a game of budgeting roulette, except instead of landing on black or red, you're deciding whether to tip the cake delivery person. Pro tip: stash away a little extra cash for these surprise gratuities.
Guests Gone Wild: While you hope your guests will be on their best behavior, sometimes unexpected incidents can occur. From broken glassware to misplaced belongings, be prepared for potential damages or losses that may arise during the festivities.
Venue Cleanup Costs: You've found the perfect venue for your special day, but don't forget about the cleanup afterwards! Some venues charge additional fees for cleaning services post-event, so be sure to inquire about any potential cleanup costs upfront to avoid any surprises on your final bill.
So there you have it, lovebirds—8 unexpected wedding day expenses that might just surprise you (and your budget). But remember, no matter what surprises come your way, the most important thing is that you're marrying the love of your life surrounded by your nearest and dearest. And hey, if all else fails, blame it on the champagne!
Happy wedding planning!