Wedding Event Insurance: What It Is, Why You Need It, and How to Choose the Right Coverage
It’s the thing no one wants to think about, but everyone should. Here’s why wedding insurance could save your big day.
What is Wedding Insurance?
Wedding insurance is a special type of event insurance designed to protect couples from unexpected circumstances that could derail their wedding plans or lead to financial loss. There are typically two types:
Liability Insurance: Covers property damage, bodily injury, and alcohol-related incidents at your wedding.
Cancellation/Postponement Insurance: Covers non-refundable deposits and costs if your event has to be canceled or delayed due to extreme weather, vendor no-shows, illness, or emergencies.
Why it’s important
You’re investing thousands, sometimes tens of thousands, into a one day event. While no one likes to plan for disaster, here are a few reasons insurance makes sense:
Vendor no-shows: If your caterer cancels last minute, insurance can help cover a backup or refund your payment.
Extreme weather: Planning an outdoor wedding? Rainstorms, hurricanes, or snow can force postponement.
Injuries or damages: If someone trips on the dance floor or a guest breaks a venue fixture, you could be liable.
COVID and similar disruptions: Future outbreaks or health restrictions can cause cancellations. Some companies have updated their policies and no longer cover in the event something like COVID happens again. Always be sure to check the fine print and ask for clarification if something is not clear.
Lost items or attire: Wedding dress damaged? Rings lost in transit? Coverage may apply.
What It Typically Covers
Depending on the provider and policy, wedding insurance may include:
Venue cancellation
Weather-related postponements
Lost deposits (photographers, florists, caterers, etc.)
Illness or injury (to key individuals)
Military deployment
Property damage
Liability for alcohol-related incidents
Lost or damaged gifts
Stolen attire or wedding rings
What It Doesn’t Cover
It’s important to read the fine print. Most policies do not cover:
Change of heart
Cold feet or voluntary cancellations
Issues with pre-existing conditions
Poor vendor performance (as opposed to no show or breach of contract)
How to Choose the Right Policy
Here are a few steps to make sure you pick what’s right for you:
Check with your venue: Some require a minimum liability policy. Find out the details on what they require.
Know your risks: Outdoor venue? High cost vendors? Custom attire? Prioritize coverage accordingly.
Read the exclusions: Understand what’s not covered so you’re not caught off guard.
Compare prices: Most policies range from $75–$500 depending on event size and coverage.
Purchase early: Many policies require purchase at least 14 days in advance.
Final Thoughts
Wedding insurance may not be glamorous, but it’s peace of mind in a pretty package. With so much time, energy, and money going into your celebration, a small investment in protection could make all the difference if things don’t go according to plan.