Wedding costs add up quickly, and most couples have paid out a large amount of money long before the day arrives. When we meet couples about their wedding, they often ask about our insurance, but when we ask whether they have insurance for the wedding itself, many say they did not know it was an option. This post explains what wedding insurance usually covers, what it can cost and what to think about before you decide.

wedding insurance northern ireland bride and groom

Do you need wedding insurance?

You do not have to have it, but it is worth thinking about. Your venue, photographer, caterer, dress, cars and flowers are often paid for in advance, and some of that money may not come back if something goes wrong. Wedding insurance is designed to protect that investment. Whether it is right for you depends on your own circumstances and how much you would be happy to lose.

What does wedding insurance cover?

Always check the small print, but most wedding insurance policies will offer cover against things like these.

A venue cancelling or going bust.
A wedding supplier letting you down.
Having to cancel or change your plans because key people cannot attend due to an accident or illness.
Wedding rings being stolen.
Personal liability.

When should you buy wedding insurance?

Wedding insurance can usually be bought up to two years before your wedding, and your cover starts from the day you buy it. That matters, because it means you are covered for problems that arise between buying the policy and your wedding day. If you or a close family member became seriously ill six months before the wedding and could not attend, for example, a policy you bought earlier is the one that could help. A policy bought after a problem has started is unlikely to cover it.

How much does wedding insurance cost?

Like any insurance, the cost depends on the value of what you are covering. Basic cover can start from around 50 pounds, but the price rises with the level of cover you choose, so get a few quotes and compare exactly what each one includes.

The most common wedding insurance claims

These are the claims that come up most often.

Wedding dress damage
Losing the wedding rings
Wedding cars failing to turn up
The wedding being cancelled because the venue was double booked
Public liability and property damage
Stolen or lost wedding presents
Suppliers going bust

What to check before you buy

Read the policy carefully and ask plenty of questions. It is worth checking what is not covered, how much the policy will pay out for each type of problem, what counts as a valid reason to cancel, and whether it covers weddings in Northern Ireland, or in the Republic of Ireland if that is where you are marrying. A cheaper policy that leaves out the things you are worried about is not good value.

Does your wedding photographer have insurance?

This is a question worth asking every supplier, not only your photographer. As professional wedding photographers in Northern Ireland, we have comprehensive insurance for both public liability and our equipment. Some venues and locations ask photographers to hold public liability insurance before they allow wedding photography there, so it is a sensible thing to check when you book. You will find more about what a booking includes in our post on what is in a wedding photography contract.

Should you buy wedding insurance?

Wedding insurance is an extra cost, and it is a personal decision. If you are seriously thinking about it, talk to a financial adviser or your insurance company and make sure you understand what is on offer. Comparison websites are useful for getting a few quotes. We are wedding photographers and not insurance advisers, so please read the fine print carefully and ask about anything that is unclear.

Planning the rest of your day? Have a look at our budget planner, our guide to the average cost of a UK wedding and our tips for a stress free wedding day. When you are ready to talk about photography, you can see our pricing or get in touch.