There are many things that we want to protect: lives, homes, possessions, and health. Because they’re important, folks choose to have them insured, but have you ever thought about insuring your wedding? It’s the biggest day of your life, and although thinking about insurance doesn’t equate to anything remotely blissful or romantic, protecting your event is necessary. 

Unfortunate circumstances, such as severe weather, health issues for you or your immediate family, or even a wedding vendor that can’t fulfill their duties, all need to be accounted for. It also goes without saying — but I will say it! — that many couples have been wondering what to do now that the pandemic has lingered. Keeping health and safety at the forefront has caused couples to postpone their weddings and honeymoons or proceed with micro weddings and elopements.

Many couples are asking, “Do I need wedding insurance?” In short, the answer is yes. Well, let me clarify by saying that hopefully, you won’t need it, but ultimately you should invest in protecting your event. If nothing else, purchasing insurance can give you the peace of mind to proceed and plan with the hopes that all will go as expected. Most insurance policies are relatively affordable, and if unforeseen events arise, you’ll be thankful that you invested in insuring your event.

Where can I get wedding insurance?

Of course, you could ask your regular provider if they offer event insurance. However, some companies deal specifically with weddings. Companies like WedSafe, Wedsure, and Travelers offer protection for your event. As with any policy, choose what is suitable for your big day and always read the fine print.

These companies protect you if there is a cancellation, postponement, forfeited deposits, or damage to your event media, such as photos and videos. Additional policies can be added for liquor and general liability, as the last thing you want on your big day is to be sued for someone else’s actions. It’s unlikely, but it does happen, so it’s worth protecting against.

As a side note, many locations also require couples to purchase an insurance policy, which protects both you and the venue itself. There are also different types of policies: one to cover liability and property damage and another that includes postponements and cancellations. Clarify with your venue and provider which is best for you. However, you may need to purchase a plan that provides for both. 

Does wedding insurance cover Covid?

Reading the fine print and calling your chosen insurance provider should help to clarify their stance on Covid-related changes. Some companies have revoked the cancellation clauses from their contracts and take each event on a case-by-case basis.

The wedding industry and insurance companies have been hit hard during the pandemic, and some couples are literally paying the price. Not that everything is doom and gloom, but do your best to be informed before settling on a policy that may not be helpful in the end.

Should I purchase travel insurance for my destination wedding?

Variants are popping up, which is causing folks to wonder about travel. Will a country’s borders be open, and, if so, for how long? The uncertainty is impacting plans both for destination weddings and honeymoons. Unlike wedding insurance, travel insurance policies are a bit more lenient, meaning that if your travel plans change, many companies are covering 100% of your travel costs. 

Another plus is that these policies often include medical coverage, which is helpful if you contract Covid or even break a bone while you’re on the go. Forbes recommends companies like Cat 70, Tin Leg, and HTH Worldwide to cover your trips with finesse.

FAQ About Wedding Insurance

Is wedding insurance necessary?

In my estimation, yes. You never know what will happen. 

Does wedding insurance cover breakup?

Check with your individual policy, but many don’t cover having a change of heart. 

How does wedding insurance work? 

With most wedding coverage, you make a single payment upfront, and your event is protected. As with any insurance, if you don’t use it, you don’t get a refund. If you have to make a claim, you can file it and go through the reimbursement process once it’s approved.

Does wedding insurance cover things already booked?

As long as you can provide receipts as to when you made your deposits and show that you weren’t aware of any claims you were going to make in advance, most policies will cover events already on the books.

No matter what you decide, be sure that you and your significant other are on the same page. Also, discuss the possibilities with anyone else helping pay for the wedding, such as your parents. Having a complete understanding of your needs and securing the exact policy you need can make a world of difference. Again, hopefully, your day will go smoothly and be unaffected, but in the end, being safe and protecting yourselves and your event is a wise choice.

Courtnie is the founder & CEO of TravelBash. After years as an ambitious fundraiser, she took her passion for travel full-time. She has lived all over the U.S. and abroad and after planning her own destination wedding, she decided to help other couples plan their big day abroad too. She has written “Passport to Paradise: The Complete Destination Wedding Guide,” a top seller on Amazon. She has also been featured in Travel + Leisure, Destination I Do and The Washington Post. As a certified travel advisor, expert event planner and natural connector, she uses her powers to create VIP travel experiences.