What is Wedding Insurance? Do You Need It?

Wedding planners know to expect the unexpected. Backup plans and contingencies are essential, which is why we strongly advise couples to purchase wedding insurance.

A wedding is one of the largest investments a couple and their families will make in their lifetimes. If you wouldn’t think twice about insuring your home or car, why overlook insuring your wedding?

Types of Wedding Insurance

There are two primary types of wedding (or event) insurance:

1. Cancellation Insurance

This protects against financial loss due to unforeseen circumstances that force you to cancel or postpone your wedding. It covers:

Lost deposits from vendor bankruptcy or no-shows (excluding COVID-19)
Accidental injury or illness of an immediate family member
Cancellation due to extreme weather
Unexpected military deployment
Lost or damaged wedding photos, videos, gifts, rings, and attire

You should purchase cancellation insurance if:

Your wedding is in a destination prone to extreme weather (hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes, storms, etc.).
Your wedding is planned during a time of heightened health concerns.
Your vendor or venue costs exceed $10,000.
- Most vendor contracts include a force majeure clause that outlines what happens in unforeseeable circumstances. When purchasing cancellation insurance, ensure it doesn’t override vendor force majeure clauses.

2. Liability Insurance

Liability insurance protects against financial losses due to:

Damage to the venue caused by the couple or guests
Legal fees if someone sues due to injury at your event
- Most venues require proof of liability insurance, sometimes referred to as event day insurance. Additionally, vendors should carry their own liability coverage. If hosting a wedding at home, request that vendors list you as an additional insured party on their policies.

Where to Purchase Wedding Insurance

Start by checking with your current insurance provider (home, auto, renters). If they don’t offer wedding insurance, consider these options:

How Much Does Wedding Insurance Cost?

Cancellation + Liability Insurance: Typically about 1% of your total wedding budget, up to $1,000.
Liability Insurance Only: Ranges from $150–$200.

When to Purchase Wedding Insurance

Cancellation Insurance: As soon as you set a budget and before booking vendors (most require nonrefundable deposits of at least 25%).
Liability Insurance: About 50 days before your wedding.

What About COVID-19?

Unfortunately, wedding insurance purchased after February 4, 2020, does not cover COVID-19-related losses. Instead, work with vendors to secure flexible contracts that allow for rescheduling.

Why Wedding Cancellation Insurance is a Must-Have

Wedding cancellation insurance provides protection in the event of:

Medical Emergencies: If the bride, groom, or an immediate family member is injured or falls ill, insurance helps cover postponement costs.
Weather Disruptions: Sudden storms, snow, or hurricanes can prevent travel or damage venues. Insurance helps recover lost deposits.
Vendor No-Shows or Bankruptcies: If a vendor fails to deliver, cancellation insurance ensures you can replace them without losing your deposit.
Venue Issues: If your venue closes, experiences a disaster, or goes out of business, you’ll be financially covered.
Unforeseen Personal Circumstances: Military deployment, job loss, or unexpected emergencies could require postponement. Insurance offers financial relief.
Peace of Mind: Knowing you’re covered allows you to focus on enjoying your big day rather than worrying about what might go wrong.

What Wedding Insurance Does Not Cover

COVID-19-related cancellations (since it's a known event)
Change of heart (voluntary decisions not to proceed with the wedding)
Pre-existing or known conditions

Final Thoughts: A Smart Investment for Your Big Day

Your wedding should be a joyful celebration, not a financial burden if the unexpected happens. Wedding insurance is a small investment that offers significant protection. By securing the right coverage, you ensure that no matter what life throws your way, your wedding will be everything you envisioned.