Should I have wedding insurance?

Short answer

Yes, wedding insurance is a sensible safeguard. It protects your budget if you must cancel, postpone or rearrange due to illness, bad weather, venue problems or supplier failure. For most couples, the peace of mind is worth the modest cost.

Wedding insurance is one of those things you hope you never need, but you will be very glad to have it if something goes wrong. Think of it as a safety net for the money you have already spent on deposits and payments. If you have to cancel the wedding because someone is ill, or the venue closes, or a supplier goes out of business, insurance can help you recover costs and rearrange.

You should check exactly what your policy covers before you buy. Some policies cover cancellation, postponement, loss or damage to items like rings and outfits, and public liability if someone is injured at the venue. Others may not cover certain risks, such as a change of heart or a pandemic. Read the terms carefully and ask the insurer if anything is unclear.

If you are having a religious ceremony, check whether your place of worship has its own insurance or requirements. For civil ceremonies, the register office or approved venue may have their own rules. The rules can vary, so it is wise to check with them and with GOV.UK for any legal points.

Insurance is not a legal requirement, but it is a practical one. If your wedding budget is tight, you might still choose a basic policy that covers the biggest risks. The key is to buy it early, ideally as soon as you start paying deposits, so you are covered from the start.