9 Unexpected Wedding Costs That Can Blow Your Budget (And How To Save Money On Hidden Expenses)
laceynnicolephotography
Let’s be real.
Wedding budgets get tight fast.
You plan for the big stuff, but it’s those unexpected little changes that sneak in and throw everything off.
One minute you’re feeling on track, and the next, you’re wondering, “Where did all these extra costs come from?”
If you’re planning a wedding in Tyler, Texas (or anywhere in East Texas), this guide is for you.
We’re breaking down the most common hidden costs that catch couples off guard, PLUS how to stay on budget without sacrificing your vision.
1. Taxes & Service Fees
(They Add Up Fast!)
That $3,000 catering quote? It may not include stuff you need like plates, cups, cutlery, taxes and service fees — which can add 20-30% more to your total bill.
Surprise!
Solution: Always ask for a final total and list of any possible additional fees before signing anything.
Pro Tip: At Sunset Oaks, there are NO extra gratuity fees tacked on to all inclusive packages. What you see is what you pay for the full list included.
laceynicolephotography
2. Delivery & Setup Fees
Decor, florals, and rentals can come with extra delivery and setup charges that aren’t clearly listed in initial quotes.
Be clear that all setup and pickup has to be done during your rental period, because they may not disclose there are extra fees for late night pickups!
Solution: Ask vendors for a detailed breakdown with dropoff/setup and pickup times, and check if those charges are included upfront.
magnoliastudio
la_bella_blooms
3. Alterations for Dresses & Suits
You found your dream dress or suit, and you feel like a million bucks in it. Amazing!!!
But most attire needs tailoring, and custom alterations can add $200–$500 (or more) to your budget. Don’t forget the bustle while you’re at it!
Solution: Factor in alterations early when planning your wedding attire budget.
stillsbytrinity
4. Rentals & Supplies (The Basics Aren’t Always Included)
If your venue doesn’t include things like tables, chairs, drink dispensers, ice buckets, linens, or decor, those “little” costs can add up to thousands of dollars—plus time and effort sourcing everything yourself.
Talk about surprise expenses - TABLE LINENS. Do the tables at your venue require linens?
Solution: Choose a venue that includes these essentials or shares the extra costs upfront. The more inclusions, the more you save in the long run.
Psst… At Sunset Oaks, you can borrow our decor and supplies at no extra charge. AND, our tables don’t require linens: thousands. saved. instantly.
5. Stationary & Postage
Foil stamping? Ribbon ties? Enclosure cards? All those little touches can drive up printing costs—and postage for heavier, bulky invitations isn’t cheap either. Adding weight to the invites adds dollars per invite.
Solution: Choose lightweight, minimalist designs and reduce inserts where you can. Today’s guest love an e-RSVP option rather than a mail-back anyway!
6. Cake Cutting & Corkage Fees
Some venues charge a per-slice cake cutting fee or corkage fee for any outside wine or alcohol you bring in—fees that aren’t always clearly advertised.
Solution: Ask about these charges early, and see if your caterer can cut your cake instead!
At Sunset Oaks, our In-House coordinators take care of the cake cutting if you have an all-inclusive package!
laceynicolephotography
7. Last-Minute Add-Ons
It’s easy to fall into the “just one more thing” trap—neon signs, candles, place cards, signage, favors… it adds up fast.
Solution: Set a deadline for the last extra. We love 30 days out! Set a firm “extras” budget ahead of time, and stick to it.
breanamariephotography
8. Vendor Gratuities
Am I expected to tip my vendors? In short, not necessarily. But food and beverage providers almost always tack on gratuities and service fees to the cost to cover the unique staffing needs of your wedding.
For the venue, photographer, coordinator, etc, tipping your wedding vendors is a kind gesture for excellent service, but it’s optional.
Which wedding vendors should be tipped? Service Staff, waitstaff, bartenders, and venue attendants are most commonly tipped, which can total hundreds of dollars to stash.
Solution: ALWAYS ask vendors if tips are expected or already included. If required, set aside gratuity funds, 20% of the food and beverage cost for gratuity.
Pro Tip: For independent vendors, they would often prefer a 5-star review over a cash tip… and that’s an absolutely free gesture to show your appreciation!
9. Extra Guests (The Sneaky Budget Buster!)
Every extra guest adds more than just a plate of food—it means more chairs, linens, centerpieces, drinks, and dinnerware. That guest list creep can seriously increase your final cost.
Solution: Be clear (and firm!) on plus-one rules and guest count limits early in your planning.
Pro Tip: Read our blog on WHO you should invite to your wedding!
Plan Smart, Not Stressed
The best way to avoid budget surprises? Know what to expect, and work with vendors who are transparent from the start.
At Sunset Oaks, we make budgeting simple with:
✔ Clear pricing (no hidden fees)
✔ Included rentals & decor
✔ NO extra gratuity charges
✔ Resources to help you plan with confidence
✨ We even have a wedding budget calculator tool to help you stay on track from the very beginning.
Need More Planning Help?
Planning a wedding in East Texas?
Download our free wedding planning guide & budget checklist to get ahead of the hidden fees and plan smarter.
Ready to see how Sunset Oaks Venue helps you save time, money, and stress? Book a visit today and take the next step toward your perfect wedding!
If you’re an East Texas Bride/Couple looking for a wedding venuue near Tyler, Texas that helps you stay on budget without sacrificing style, Sunset Oaks is here for you.
If you’re an East Texas Bride/Couple looking for an affordable wedding venue near Tyler, Texas that can accommodate up to 175 guests and is a PARTNER in your wedding journey, consider Sunset Oaks Venue!
