Photo by Micah and Megan Photography via My Hotel Wedding
At MHW we're all about transparency and making the wedding planning process easy for you, the couple. So today we have some helpful hints for you when it comes to hidden wedding costs. Whether you're hosting your wedding at a hotel or private estate, we've got you covered with these 5 general hidden costs.
Photo by Kristen Jane Photography via My Hotel Wedding
1. Taxes
Be sure you're clear on everything that can be taxed. You'll notice that some vendors charge tax while others do not. When receiving estimates, follow-up with your vendor to make sure their invoice is accurate and includes state tax if required.
Photo by Tami Melissa Photography LLC via My Hotel Wedding
2. Gratuities
Just like you leave tip at a restaurant, hotel and catering companies charge gratuity for their services. Most of the time a percentage of or all the gratuity goes to the staff. In addition to gratuity for the catering staff, think about all the vendors involved in your wedding day and be sure to allocate gratuity for them as well. Think Bellman, Catering Manager, Banquet Manager/Captain, Wedding Planner, DJ/Band, Photographer, Videographer, Transportation and anyone else intimately involved in your special day.
Photo by ByCherry Photography via My Hotel Wedding
3. Parking
Whether you're hosting parking or not, ask your hotel the cost for parking. Many times this is not included in your wedding package and can easily be overlooked. If you're hiring valet and hosting it for your guests, don't forget a gratuity for the attendants.
Photo by Jason Q Tran Photography via My Hotel Wedding
4. Overtime
If your wedding is over 8 hours of service or goes past a certain time, you could incur overtime with the on-site staff. Check with your Catering Manager, Wedding Planner and vendors who will have someone on-site about overtime costs so you can budget accurately, just in case.
Photo by Cathy and David Photography via My Hotel Wedding
5. Lighting, Power & Audio
Many venues and hotels will let you know that their venue is equipped with lighting or sound, but always ask for more details. Hotels & Venues will add on additional fees to plug into their speakers or use their lighting. So, always ask for more information and a breakdown of costs if you bring in your own vendors as opposed to using their in-house vendors.
Do you have more questions on hidden wedding costs, then comment below and we'll get back to you!
