Why You Need Wedding Insurance (and What It Really Covers)

December 3, 2025

Planning a wedding is exciting, emotional, and, let’s be honest: a major financial investment. You’re coordinating vendors, locking in your dream venue, and juggling dozens of moving parts. But what happens if something unexpected derails your plans?

That’s where wedding insurance steps in.

Most couples are surprised to learn that coverage is very affordable — often less than the price of one floral centerpiece — yet it can save thousands if the unexpected happens.

In this guide, you’ll learn what wedding insurance covers, how much it costs, and how to choose the right wedding insurance policy for your big day.

Wedding reception setup at BASH venue featuring elegantly arranged tables and chairs ready for guests.
Photo: Natasha Smith Photography LLC

What Is Wedding Insurance?

Wedding insurance is a safeguard for your celebration, protecting you financially from things that could go wrong before or during your event.

There are two main types of wedding insurance:

1. Liability Insurance

Wedding liability insurance protects you if there’s an accident, injury, or property damage during your wedding.

2. Cancellation or Postponement Insurance

Wedding cancellation insurance covers the financial fallout if you’re forced to delay or cancel your big day for a covered reason.

Quick Comparison

Type of CoverageWhat It ProtectsWhen It’s Used
Liability InsuranceInjuries, property damage, alcohol-related incidentsDuring the wedding or reception
Cancellation/PostponementLost deposits, rescheduling costs, vendor issuesBefore the wedding, due to qualifying disruptions

How Much Does Wedding Insurance Cost?

Most policies fall between $100–$500, depending on the coverage level and venue requirements.

Factors that influence cost:

  • Venue requirements (many venues require at least $1M coverage)

  • Guest count

  • Alcohol service

  • Policy limits

  • Add-ons like weather coverage or high-value items

Example Pricing

  • Liability-only policy: around $200

  • Cancellation + liability policy: typically $400–$500

What Does Wedding Insurance Actually Cover?

Commonly Covered:

  • Accidental venue damage

  • Guest injuries at the wedding

  • Vendor no-shows or sudden closures

  • Extreme weather causing a cancellation or delay

  • Illness, emergencies, or military deployment

  • Lost deposits for covered reasons

  • Damaged wedding attire or gifts (depending on the policy)

Not Typically Covered:

  • Cold feet or change of heart

  • Luxury jewelry without a special rider

  • Pre-existing weather forecasts

  • Cash gifts

  • Poor vendor performance that isn’t a true cancellation

  • Issues from ignoring known risks

Do You Really Need Wedding Insurance? (Pros & Cons)

Pros

  • Protects your financial investment

  • Required by many venues

  • Peace of mind throughout planning

  • Affordable vs. potential out-of-pocket risk

  • Offers support if something unexpected happens

Cons

  • It’s an added line item

  • Some couples never use their policy

  • Exclusions can be confusing

Bottom Line

If your venue requires it — or if your wedding budget is over $10,000 — wedding insurance is usually a smart, low-cost investment in stress-free planning.

Gift table at BASH venue set up for guests to place gifts during the celebration.
Photo: Natasha Smith Photography LLC

Common Problems Wedding Insurance Solves (Real Examples)

  • A vendor goes out of business suddenly and keeps your deposit.

  • A severe winter storm shuts down travel the day before your wedding.

  • A guest accidentally breaks a window or damages décor.

  • Someone slips on the dance floor, requires medical care, and files a claim.

  • Your photographer gets sick and you need to find a last-minute replacement.

Quick, relatable issues solved with a single policy.

Where to Buy Wedding Insurance (and What to Look For)

Best Wedding Insurance Providers

What to Compare Before You Buy

  • Coverage limits (liability + cancellation)

  • Exclusions (every policy is different)

  • Deductibles

  • Reputation + customer service

  • Whether the venue has specific requirements

FAQs About Wedding Insurance

Do all venues require wedding insurance?
No, but many do, including BASH.

When should I buy it?
Ideally, as soon as you book your venue.

Can you change your policy?
Yes, most insurers allow upgrades before the event date.

Is it worth it for small weddings or elopements?
For events under 20 people or micro-celebrations, liability-only may be enough.

Final Takeaway: Protecting Your Big Day

Wedding insurance isn’t glamorous, but it is practical. When you’re investing so much energy, money, and heart into one day, protecting that investment is a no-brainer.

If you’re investing in your wedding, you should invest in peace of mind.

At BASH, we want every couple to feel supported from day one. That’s why we require our clients to purchase wedding insurance. It protects not just your budget, but the celebration you’ve dreamed of. When you book with us, our team helps guide you through venue requirements, vendor coordination, and planning details so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying your engagement and your big day.

Explore BASH and learn more about hosting your wedding with us.

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