Wedding Insurance

Wedding insurance is a sensitive subject. Some believe that it is a necessity, like your dress and venue. Others will say it's a waste of money. In 2007, 20% of the 300,000 weddings that year took out wedding insurance. Consider for a moment the amount of money that goes into the average wedding. Approximately £20,000 a pop! It's a scary thought. 

Weddings are not as traditional as they once were. In 2008, 53% of couple paid for their weddings themselves. 

With all of these scary figures to consider, would you honestly pay out even more for insurance?

Claiming from a wedding insurance plan can be a bit like claiming for your car or home contents. It can be long winded and almost painful at times. Photocopy any documentation you send, and keep copies for yourself. You will need to include receipts, cancellation fees, doctors notes, vendors fees, the lot. The process is pretty much the same as for a car or home contents, so if yourself or someone you know has had an issue and claimed before, their knowledge will be invaluable.

Once you have calculated your costs, you can start to look for insurers  Use a well known provider, such as John Lewis or  American Express, that you know will look after you.

The benefits are that, depending on your policy, you will be covered against the cost of everything from loss of rings to cancellations. You will also be safe in the knowlegde that if something does go horribly wrong, at least your finances and marriage (or not) won't suffer. 

The downside is that it is an extra expense. It can be difficult to claim, especially when you consider that I am planning a wedding for approximately three years time. I am going to have to be meticulous about my receipts and invoices straight from the word go to ensure that I am prepared. 

Personally, I have decided to take out insurance. It can cost as little a £86 for an £18,000 wedding. To me, that is pennies to spend to have the peace of mind that insurance brings. The decision is ultimately yours, but I believe that knowledge is key. Fore warned is fore armed!

Good luck guys and gals, and let me know your thoughts on insurance and claims, so that I may pass on your advice and help!