1Vet your vendors. Couples have to rely on many different vendors — from caterers and transportation companies to florists and venues. Depending on so many different people can leave room for error (just ask the couple whose DJ couldn’t make the reception because he was in jail). Thoroughly research potential vendors, including talking to past customers. Then follow up with them throughout the process.

2Don’t lose out on your deposits. A wedding is a significant financial investment. To protect against potential losses, couples should use a credit card instead of a check or debit card whenever possible for deposits. In the event something happens, a credit card payment is easier to recoup than cash.

3Say “yes” to expert help. Planning a wedding is no easy feat. Couples can make the process a lot easier by hiring a wedding planner. These experts will use their experience, resources and talents — such as communication skills, negotiation and problem-solving — to help your dreams become a reality.

4Dealing with destinations. Destination weddings are on trend as marrying couples seek Instagrammable, unique locations around the world. If you’re taking this route, factor additional money into the budget for unforeseen expenses. Consider hiring a local wedding planner who is familiar with reliable venues and vendors in the area. Additionally, many destination weddings take place outdoors, and unpredictable weather could roll in at any time. It is important to have a back-up plan when it comes to venues, photographers or any vendor that could face a problem and be unable to provide their contracted services.

5Invest in peace of mind. Wedding insurance solution providers can help protect your investment with wedding insurance. Investing in wedding insurance, on average, costs less than half of a three-tiered wedding cake. Wedding insurance generally comes in two forms:

• Wedding Cancellation Insurance. This coverage offers protection if a couple needs to cancel or reschedule their wedding in the event of issues such as severe weather, a sudden illness or venue closure. In 2018, 43 percent of WedSafe’s claims came from the need to cancel or postpone a wedding. For example, the company saw a surge in claims in North Carolina when Hurricane Florence hit, forcing cancellations for weeks following the storm as venues and vendors dealt with the impact to their business.
• Wedding Liability Insurance. This type of coverage, now required by many venues, helps protect an insured couple if they are held liable for property damage or bodily injury. It can also offer hosts liquor liability to protect against alcohol-related accidents