What extras do people often forget when budgeting for a wedding venue and catering?

When you book a venue and caterer, the quoted price rarely covers everything. Check whether the venue charges extra for a cake cutting service, a corkage fee if you bring your own drinks, or a service charge added to the final bill. Staff overtime for a later finish is another common surprise, as is a cleaning fee.

Think about the table setting too. Some venues provide basic tables and chairs but charge extra for linen, napkins, crockery, glassware, and cutlery. If you are using an outdoor space, you may need to hire heaters, lighting, or a marquee, and that can add to the catering cost if the caterer needs extra equipment or power.

Also remember the small things that add up: tasting sessions, menu cards, place cards, and a late-night snack for guests. If you have dietary requirements, some caterers charge more for special menus. Ask for a full written breakdown of what is included and what is not, and get every extra in writing. That way you can plan without surprises and keep your budget realistic.