Hidden Wedding Costs Couples Often Forget (And How to Plan for Them)
You’ve crunched the numbers, set your wedding budget, and feel ready to start booking vendors. But as planning progresses, many couples face an all-too-common surprise — unexpected costs that weren’t on their radar.
These hidden wedding costs can sneak up fast, turning a carefully planned budget upside down.
To help you stay ahead, here’s a list of common hidden wedding expenses that couples often forget to plan for — and tips for making sure they don’t derail your big day.
1️⃣ Service Fees & Gratuities
One of the biggest budget busters? Fees added to your final invoices.
Many venues and caterers automatically add a service charge (typically 18-25%) to your bill. This is separate from a tip — and it can be substantial.
In addition:
Caterers, bartenders, planners, hair & makeup artists, transportation companies, and musicians often expect gratuities.
Not all vendor contracts clearly spell out whether gratuity is included or optional.
Tip: Ask each vendor whether service fees and gratuities are included in your contract. Build these percentages into your budget from the start.
2️⃣ Marriage License Fees
If you’re getting married in Hawaii (or any U.S. state), you’ll need a legal marriage license. In Hawaii:
The fee is $65 (subject to change), paid online when applying.
You’ll need to appear in person at a licensed agent before your ceremony.
It’s a small cost, but an important one that couples sometimes overlook when budgeting for a destination wedding.
3️⃣ Wedding Attire Alterations & Accessories
It’s easy to focus on the dress or suit price — but alterations and accessories can add up quickly:
Alterations: Plan $200–$600+ depending on complexity.
Undergarments, shoes, jewelry, veil, hairpieces — easily another $200–$500+.
Tip: Include a line item in your budget specifically for wedding attire beyond the purchase price.
4️⃣ Beauty Trials
Bridal hair and makeup trials are essential if you want to look and feel your best — but they aren’t always included in the standard pricing for day-of services.
Budget $100–$300 per trial session.
You may want trials for both hair and makeup.
5️⃣ Vendor Meals
If you hire a team of photographers, videographers, coordinators, or musicians who will be working through your reception, it’s customary (and often required in your contract) to provide vendor meals.
Plan to feed:
Photo & video team
Planner/coordinator team
Band/DJ members
Other on-site vendors staying past dinner
Tip: Many caterers offer discounted vendor meal pricing if you ask in advance.
6️⃣ Overtime Charges
Weddings often run a little late — and that can trigger overtime charges with your:
Venue (per hour)
DJ or band
Photographer/videographer
Transportation (shuttles, limos)
Tip: Ask vendors what their overtime policy is. Build a small buffer into your timeline to avoid surprises.
7️⃣ Postage for Invitations & Thank You Cards
Invitations and thank you cards can cost more to mail than you think, especially if you choose heavier paper, wax seals, or oversized envelopes.
Plan $1–$3 per invitation with postage.
Don’t forget return postage for RSVP cards (if applicable).
Budget for stamps for thank you notes after the wedding.
8️⃣ Transportation & Parking Fees
Especially in Hawaii, where parking at popular venues or beaches can be tricky:
Account for valet fees or shuttle services for guests.
Consider transportation for your bridal party between getting ready locations and the venue.
Tip: Communicate parking options clearly to guests on your wedding website.
9️⃣ Decor Setup & Breakdown Fees
If you’re renting specialty decor, floral arches, or lighting, many companies charge setup and breakdown fees in addition to the rental cost.
This can range from $200 to $1,000+ depending on complexity.
Tip: Ask if setup and breakdown are included in your quote — and confirm who is responsible for cleanup with your venue.
10️⃣ Unexpected Weather Backup Plans
Planning an outdoor wedding in Hawaii? Weather is typically beautiful, but tropical showers can happen.
Some venues charge a fee to secure a tent rental or indoor backup space.
Umbrellas for guests may be an additional purchase.
Tip: Always have a Plan B — and know what it will cost.
Final Thoughts
Every wedding has little surprises — but when you’re prepared, they won’t throw off your day.
By understanding the hidden costs of wedding planning and building them into your budget early, you’ll stay in control and enjoy a stress-free celebration.
Bonus Tip: At One Moment Hawaii, we believe in total transparency. When you book our photography and videography packages, we walk you through exactly what’s included — with no hidden fees — so you can budget with confidence.
Ready to start planning your Hawaii wedding?
Contact us today and let’s make your dream day a reality! 🌺📸🎥
