Hidden Wedding Costs in Singapore: Don't Let These Surprises Spoil Your Celebration!
Everyone has some form of wedding budget in mind. However, couples often bust their budget unknowingly due to charges that they forgot to account for.
It's crucial to be aware of potential hidden fees that might catch you off guard. Here's a quick rundown to ensure you budget wisely:
Venue Fees
GST and Service Charge: Some venues may not include Goods and Services Tax (GST) and service charges in their initial quotes. Clarify this to avoid unexpected costs.
Additional Alcohol Charges: If your guests order extra alcohol or beverages not covered in the wedding package, these costs can add up quickly.
Corkage Fees: Bringing your own alcohol? Be aware of corkage fees that venues may charge for serving outside drinks. Before signing a wedding package, negotiate with your venue to waive or reduce corkage fees. (We've heard that it works for some venues!)
Tips: It's a nice gesture to give an angbao to your venue coordinator and, optionally, the banquet staff, so factor this into your budget.
Vendor Fees
Travel Reimbursement: If your photographer/videographer/makeup artist need to travel to your home, discuss reimbursement for transportation to avoid last-minute surprises.
Early Hour Fees: Some vendors may charge extra for services during early hours, for example if your auspicious time is 5am.
Tips: Show appreciation to your vendors by budgeting for an angbao for each vendor in advance.
Wedding Dress & Gowns
Dry Cleaning: After the big day, your wedding dress and gowns may need professional cleaning. Expect to pay $120-$400 to get your wedding dress and gowns professionally washed.
Jewellery: Jewellery is part of the wedding look. You may want to set aside some budget for necklaces and earrings for your dress and evening gown.
Rush Fees: If you need your dress/alterations in a hurry, rush fees can add up very quickly.
Other Miscellaneous Fees
Decor for your home. You'll need to buy auspicious home decor especially if you're planning to have gatecrashing and bridal unveiling at home. In addition, you'll need floral decor for the car. Don’t underestimate how quickly these “little purchases” add up.
Reception table: The photo album, video montage (if professionally done), and floral decor can be very costly.
Angbao for your bridesmaids, groomsmen, and helpers. These people worked hard to make your wedding day smooth and stress-free! The angbao is simply a small token of appreciation.
Being aware of these potential hidden fees ensures you have a realistic budget for your dream wedding in Singapore.
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