There are many expenses when it comes to your wedding, this includes pre and post ceremony costs as well. Some of these fees are often “hidden” or not as well known, so you may exceed your budget if they are unplanned for. Here are a couple lesser known fees that come along with a modern wedding, and budget tips on how to avoid them and save money.
- Expensive Postage for invitations: if your invitations are anything besides standard, expect to pay more than you were expecting per envelope. This can mean: oddly sized, bulky, heavy, multi-layered invitations or unique packaging. It may not seem like a lot, but if they end up running $2 in stamps per invite, it can add up when you have 200 guests.
How to avoid it: choose a simple invitation that is light and fits in an average sized envelope. Try to get estimates on postage per invite before you decide.
- Additional “Cake-Cutting” Fee: Most brides search for a baker for their wedding cake specifically, and don’t buy reception packages that include a cake. If you book separately, expect to pay an extra fee specifically for the cake. The staff of the reception hall will have to cut and serve the cake to your guests, as well as clean the dishes afterwards. This is all paid by you, and can run up to $5 for each guest.
How to avoid it: if you book a banquet hall that includes the wedding cake in the overall cost, this isn’t a problem. If you decide to hire your own baker for the cake, be sure you’re aware of the costs included for the extra services at the reception venue.
- Obligatory Tips: There is a difference between a “service charge” and gratuity. You should be aware that the service charge is mandatory, and is the compensation for the catering hall for hiring servers. This is not in place of the tip, so you may be surprised with an extra fee at the end of the night, up to 20% of the overall costs.
How to avoid it: you can avoid the surprise by being prepared. Determine the exact cost upfront, and have it paid along with the total cost of catering, this way there is no other cost that will sneak up on you and ruin your budget.
- Additional Band Equipment: If your venue is particularly big, you may be slapped with last minute charges for additional equipment needed for the band or DJ. If the hall is bigger than expected, the extra mikes, speakers and other equipment will be an expense you had not planned for, and it can run in the hundreds.
How to avoid it: when arranging a price with your entertainment, be sure the layout of the venue is clear, so if there is any additional equipment necessary, it should be declared upfront and explained so you don’t pay for anything unnecessary.
Source: TheKnot.com.
