Things to watch out for when planning your wedding

Weddings are magical — but let’s be real, they’re also expensive. Even the most organized bride can get blindsided by unexpected costs that weren’t part of the original budget. These hidden wedding costs can sneak up on you, leaving you frustrated and financially stretched.

From postage fees to dress alterations and surprise vendor charges, here are 10 common expenses that can add up quickly — plus practical tips on how to avoid them.

1. Postage for Wedding Invitations

Why It’s Hidden:
Stationers rarely include postage costs in your quote, and ornate invitation suites can weigh more or have irregular shapes that require extra postage.

The Cost:
Up to $2 per invitation for oversized or uniquely shaped mail.

How to Avoid It:
Stick to standard-sized invitations and skip boxed or multilayered designs. Before committing to a style, take a sample to the post office for an estimate.

2. Wedding Dress Alterations & Steaming

Why It’s Hidden:
Bridal salons typically don’t include alteration or steaming fees in the dress price — and they can really add up.

The Cost:

• Simple hem: around $100
• Major alterations (like adjusting a bodice): up to $500 or more

How to Avoid It:
Ask the bridal boutique upfront for a breakdown of alteration fees. Include these costs in your dress budget from the start.

3. Taxes and Service Fees

Why It’s Hidden:
It’s easy to forget about taxes when you’re focused on item prices — but those percentages add up, especially on big-ticket services like venues and catering.

The Cost:
Varies by state and spending amount — can total hundreds to thousands of dollars.

How to Avoid It:
Estimate taxes and tips as an extra 30% of your total budget. Pay large bills in a lump sum if possible to reduce compounded service fees.

4. Cake-Cutting Fees

Why It’s Hidden:
If your venue provides the cake, the slicing and serving are typically included. But if you bring in your own baker, expect a fee for their staff to handle it.

The Cost:

• $2 to $5 per guest for cake-cutting
• $1.50 to $3 per bottle for wine or champagne corkage

How to Avoid It:
Confirm whether cake-cutting and corkage fees apply before hiring outside vendors. Sometimes, choosing in-house services can save you hundreds.

5. Vendor Meals

Why It’s Hidden:
Photographers, videographers, DJs, and planners will likely spend 8+ hours at your wedding — and they’ll need to eat!

The Cost:
Approximately $25 to $50 per vendor, depending on your catering package.

How to Avoid It:
Ask your caterer about vendor meal pricing in advance and budget accordingly. Some offer discounted plates for vendors.

6. Setup and Breakdown Fees

Why It’s Hidden:
Venues may charge extra for setting up chairs, tables, décor, or cleaning afterward — especially if your timeline falls outside their normal hours.

The Cost:
Could range from $250 to $1,000+, depending on the venue and complexity.

How to Avoid It:
Clarify what’s included in your venue rental contract. If setup and cleanup aren’t covered, negotiate or consider simplifying your décor.

7. Sound System and Equipment Rental

Why It’s Hidden:
You might assume your DJ or band brings all their own equipment — but if your ceremony is outdoors or in a separate location, you could be charged for extra gear.

The Cost:
$150 to $500, depending on location and needs.

How to Avoid It:
Ask your DJ or band if additional sound equipment is needed for the ceremony or cocktail hour. Include it in your music budget.

8. Overtime Charges

Why It’s Hidden:
If your celebration runs long, vendors like the photographer, DJ, or venue staff may charge overtime fees.

The Cost:

• $200+ per hour for photographers or DJs
• Venue overtime fees can be even higher

How to Avoid It:
Confirm cutoff times in contracts and stick to your schedule. If you expect a longer celebration, negotiate a set rate for extra hours upfront.

9. Transportation Fees

Why It’s Hidden:
Many couples forget to factor in travel costs for guests, vendors, or even themselves.

The Cost:
Shuttles, limos, and valet services can range from $300 to $1,500+ depending on distance and guest count.

How to Avoid It:
Get multiple quotes for transportation and be upfront about timing and locations. Consider carpooling or choosing a venue with nearby accommodations.

10. Beauty Trials and Extras

Why It’s Hidden:
You may have planned for your hair and makeup artist—but did you include the trial runs, touch-ups, or your bridal party?

The Cost:

• Hair/makeup trial: $100–$200
• Bridal party styling: $75–$150 per person

How to Avoid It:
Ask for full pricing, including trials and bridal party services, during your consultation. Bundle services when possible for better value.

Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead and Ask Questions

Hidden wedding costs don’t have to derail your budget — as long as you know what to watch out for. The key is communication. Always ask vendors for complete, itemized pricing and don’t be afraid to dig into the fine print.

Build a buffer of 10–15% into your budget for unexpected expenses and stay proactive throughout the planning process.

Need help finding a dress that fits your style and your budget?
At Savvy Bridal, we make wedding dress shopping stress-free and personalized—no surprises, just style and support.