Wedding Budget Surprises: What No One Tells You

You've done your research, created your spreadsheet, and feel good about your budget. Then reality hits. Here are the sneaky costs that catch every bride off guard (and how to plan for them).

01

Vendor Tips (Budget: $500-1,000 extra)

Tips can add up very quickly, planning them in advance will help make sure you don't end up panic tipping or overspending at the last minute

Who to tip:

• Wedding coordinator: $100-300
• Photographer: $100-200
• DJ/Band: $25-50 per person
• Hair/makeup: 15-20% of service cost
• Servers: $20-50 per person

Quick fix: Add "gratuity fund" to your budget from day one.

02

Service Charges & Fees (Budget: 15-25% extra on everything)

You wouldn't think you would need to add fees to the fees, but often you do. Knowning all the details up front will make sure you don't have unpleasant surprises later.

Hidden fees to expect:

• Credit card processing: 2-4%
• Service charges: 15-22% (automatically added)
• Delivery fees: $100-500
• Overtime charges: $150-300/hour

Quick fix: Ask every vendor "What's NOT included in this price?"

03

Alterations & Dress Extras (Budget: $300-600)

Another case of the price not telling the full story. Here are add on 's you can expect beyond the cost of your actual dress.

Beyond the dress price:

• Alterations: $200-800
• Proper undergarments: $100-300
• Shoes, jewelry, accessories: $200-400

Quick fix: Budget 50% of your dress cost for "everything else."

The Questions That Save Money

Before hiring anyone, ask:

• "What fees aren't included in this quote?"
• "What's your overtime policy?"
• "Do you require vendor meals?"
• "What happens if we need to make changes?"

Your Buffer Strategy

20% Rule: Whatever your "perfect" budget is, add 20% for reality.

Example:

• Dream budget: $15,000
• Reality budget: $18,000 ($3,000 buffer)

Bottom Line

Hidden costs aren't evil - they're just part of wedding planning reality. The couples who stay on budget aren't the ones who avoid these costs (impossible). They're the ones who plan for them.

Your action step: Right now, add 20% to your current budget. Thank me later.