Watch out for these sneaky, budget-busting wedding fees

By Carissa Hagen

 $150 for an aisle runner? $5 each to cover 200 reception hall chairs? $175 an hour for the DJ's overtime?

If you’re planning a wedding, these and other hidden costs and upcharges can hit your budget hard. Even the most budget-conscious couples can be caught off guard by fees they didn’t anticipate. Taxes, tips, and last-minute add-ons may seem insignificant at the time, but they add up quickly.  

The good news? With some planning, you can create a more realistic budget for your big day. If you don’t have a budget, check out our blog on creating one.

Now, let’s dive into the frequently hidden wedding charges and how to plan for them.

Common hidden costs of weddings

Taxes and service charges

Taxes and service charges are some of the biggest surprises couples face. Venues and caterers often add service fees – sometimes 20 to 25% – to your bill, which can add thousands to your final total. These fees are separate from taxes and gratuities, so asking for all-inclusive quotes is wise to avoid sticker shock.

For example, a 20% service charge on a $10,000 catering bill adds $2,000 to your costs. Combine that with taxes, and you’re looking at an even more considerable expense.

Tip: Always ask vendors for quotes that include taxes, service fees, and other additional charges. This will give you a more accurate picture of the total cost. 

Gratuities and tips

Gratuities for your vendors can add up quickly if they’re not already included in their fees. Photographers, DJs, hair and makeup artists, and delivery staff are just a few people who should be tipped. Typical tipping guidelines range from 10 to 20%, depending on the service, and it’s a good idea to factor this into your overall budget.

Tip: Create a dedicated “tip fund” in your budget so you won’t have to scramble to cover gratuities on your wedding day. Also, putting one person, like the bride or groom's father, in charge of giving out tips will ensure that everyone is tipped and given the right amount. 

Upcharges for wedding extras

Many vendors offer optional upgrades that seem small but can significantly impact your budget. Items like aisle runners, chair covers, or upgraded linens often come with additional costs. While these extras can enhance your wedding’s look, they may not always be worth the price.

Consider this: $150 for an aisle runner and $5 each for 200 chair covers would add $1,150 to your wedding expenses. Five dollars per chair doesn’t sound inexpensive now, does it?

Tip: Before approving any upcharges, ask yourself if they’ll significantly enhance your day or if they can be omitted.

Dress alterations

Bridal gowns almost always require alterations, which can cost hundreds of dollars. Tailoring for the perfect fit is essential, but it’s often not included in the price of the attire itself.

Tip: When purchasing your dress, ask about alteration costs and factor them into your budget.

Postage for invitations

Custom or heavy wedding invitations can lead to higher-than-expected postage costs. Remember to include save-the-dates, RSVP cards, and thank-you notes in your postage calculations.

Tip: Use online RSVP options to reduce the number of reply cards you need to mail, reducing postage and paper costs.

Overtime fees

Many vendors, including venues, photographers, and DJs, charge overtime fees if your wedding runs past the agreed-upon time. These charges can be steep and are often billed at an hourly rate.

Tip: Build a time cushion into your schedule to avoid running over and incurring extra fees.

Vendor meals

It’s customary to provide meals for vendors like photographers, band members, and planners working through the event. While this is an important courtesy, it’s another expense couples often overlook.

Tip: Ask your caterer if they offer discounted vendor meal options to help reduce costs.

Transportation and parking

Shuttling guests can add significant costs if you hold your wedding at a remote or hard-to-access venue. Other costs to consider include providing valet parking for your guests or renting a limo for the bridal party.

Tip: Include transportation costs in your budget upfront, and consider alternative options for guests, such as carpooling or ride-sharing.

Decor setup and teardown fees

Some venues charge extra for setting up or breaking down decor, especially if it requires additional labor or time. These fees are often listed in the fine print of your venue contract.

Tip: Check with your venue to see what’s included in the rental fee and whether setup or teardown services are extra.

How to budget for hidden costs

Create a contingency fund

No matter how well you budget, unexpected costs are inevitable. Allocate 10 to 15% of your total budget for surprises like extra rentals, last-minute vendor needs, or weather-related changes. This safety net will help you stay calm and prepared.

Ask questions upfront

Don’t be afraid to ask vendors detailed questions about their fees. Key questions include: 

• Are taxes, gratuities, or service charges included in this quote?

• Are there extra fees for travel, overtime, or additional equipment?

• What’s included in the base price, and what’s an upgrade?

Knowing this information early on will prevent surprises later.

Track every expense

Use a wedding budgeting tool or spreadsheet to log every expense, including deposits, gratuities, and last-minute additions. Regularly updating your budget ensures you know exactly where your money is going and helps you avoid overspending.

Remember: You can avoid surprises with smart planning

Weddings are full of moving parts, and hidden costs can quickly derail your budget if you’re unprepared. By planning ahead and accounting for often-overlooked expenses, you can avoid financial surprises on your big day.

A well-thought-out budget doesn’t mean sacrificing your dream wedding – it means making smart, intentional choices to celebrate your love in a memorable and financially manageable way. With some foresight and flexibility, you can have the wedding of your dreams without the stress of unexpected bills.

This material has been provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute either tax or legal advice. Although we go to great lengths to ensure our information is accurate and useful, we recommend you consult a tax preparer, professional tax advisor, or lawyer.

Allegiant Wealth Strategies offers securities and advisory services through Commonwealth Financial Network®, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser. Allegiant Wealth Strategies has offices in Battle Creek and Portage, Michigan, from which we serve Calhoun County, Kalamazoo County, and Kent County (Grand Rapids). The Allegiant Wealth Strategies team offers no-obligation financial planning consultations; call 269-218-2100 or contact us here.