Planning a wedding is an exciting journey filled with endless possibilities, but it's essential to be prepared for the unexpected expenses that may arise along the way. As a wedding planner, helping couples navigate these unforeseen costs is crucial to ensure their dream day stays within budget. In this blog post, I'll uncover some common unexpected expenses that can catch couples off guard during wedding planning, specifically tailored to the unique context of Colorado!
Marianne Brown Photography
Permit Fees for Outdoor Venues
Colorado's stunning natural landscapes often serve as the backdrop for outdoor weddings. However, many outdoor venues require permits for ceremonies and receptions, which can incur unexpected costs. Make sure you are checking your local regulations and budgeting for permit fees, ensuring compliance while enjoying the beauty of Colorado's outdoor settings.
An example of a popular Colorado ceremony venue that requires a permit is Sunrise Ampitheatre in beautiful Boulder.
Transportation and Logistics in Mountainous Areas
Mountainous regions in Colorado offer picturesque venues, but they can present logistical challenges. Couples may need to consider additional transportation arrangements for guests to and from the airport (if you want to provide this). In addition, a few of our venues have very limited parking and may require that you hire a shuttle to get your guests to and from their hotel to the venue. Transportation is a great thing to add to enhance guest experience but don't let this added expense catch you off guard! Transportation could be anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 depending on location and guest count.
Inclement Weather Contingencies
Colorado's weather can be unpredictable, even during the most ideal seasons. We often see 4:00 rain showers in the mountains all summer, and the weather can dip pretty low up there even during the hottest months. Add a little slush fund for weather contingencies that may be used for things like tents, heaters, or fans.
Vendor Travel and Accommodation
The majority of the wedding vendors in Colorado reside in the Front Range/Denver area. This means there may be added travel expenses in your invoices when hiring them. Just make sure you are budgeting for this added expense and ask this up front with each vendor! Whether it's a photographer, florist, or entertainment provider, discussing these potential costs upfront will help couples make informed decisions and avoid surprises later.
Gratuities and Service Fees
These additional costs can quickly add up, so it's crucial to include them in the overall wedding budget. You can see my recommendations for tips and gratuities in my recent blog post: Tipping Your Wedding Vendors.
While unexpected expenses can arise during wedding planning, being aware of these potential costs will empower couples to make informed decisions and stay on track financially. By addressing these hidden expenses, you'll ensure that your clients have a smoother journey toward their dream celebration while keeping their budget intact!