Budget Blunders: Don’t Forget These!
The Wedding Budget “Oops” List: Things Couples Forget to Budget For
You’ve booked the venue, secured the photographer, and said “yes” to the dress (or suit) of your dreams.
Budget = handled… right?
Not so fast 😅
Even the most organized couples can overlook a few sneaky wedding expenses that pop up right before or right after the big day. These aren’t the flashy line items—but they do add up. Here are some commonly forgotten wedding costs to make sure your budget stays stress-free.
💵 Cash Tips for Day-Of Vendors
Many couples plan to tip but forget to actually budget for it. Hair and makeup artists, delivery teams, venue staff, coordinators, and even musicians might be under consideration for a tip or gratuity. Whether you’re tipping in cash or adding gratuity ahead of time, plan for it early so you’re not scrambling on wedding morning. A note that unless listed in the contract, vendors do not expect or require a tip. Do not feel pressure to tip anyone, unless you want to.
📄 Marriage License Fees
It’s not the most romantic expense, but it’s kind of important 😉 Marriage license fees vary in price depending on your location, and some offices only accept certain payment types. A quick check with your local county clery can save you a last-minute surprise.
✉️ Postage for All the Mail
Save-the-dates, invitations, RSVP cards, thank-you notes—they all need postage (if mailing physically) and it adds up faster than you think! If you’re using heavier paper, wax seals, or oddly shaped envelopes, postage can cost more than standard stamps. Pro tip: take a fully assembled invitation to the post office so they can weigh it before buying stamps.
🌸 Preservation Services (Flowers & Attire)
After the confetti settles, many couples want to preserve pieces of their wedding day. Flower preservation, bouquet pressing, or professional attire cleaning and preservation are often after-the-fact expenses that aren’t top of mind during planning—but they’re worth considering if you want keepsakes that last.
🎁 Wedding Party & Parent Gifts
Your wedding party and parents have likely supported you in big ways—emotionally, financially, or both. Thank-you gifts are a thoughtful gesture, but they’re another line item couples forget to plan for. Whether it’s personalized gifts, handwritten notes, or experiences, budget something that feels meaningful and manageable.
Final Thought
None of these expenses are deal-breakers—but ignoring them can quietly blow your budget. Planning for these “forgotten” costs now means fewer surprises later and more space to actually enjoy being newly married 💍
Future you will be very thankful.