Planning your vow renewal can feel like a budgeting win—until the not-so-obvious costs start rolling in. One minute you’re within budget, the next you’re blindsided by a surprise delivery fee or a $3-per-slice cake-cutting charge.

Let’s keep that from happening. Below are 8 of the most common hidden vow renewal costs, complete with practical advice on how to avoid them.

1. Taxes

Why it adds up: Taxes are rarely listed in advertised prices but show up everywhere—venue, catering, rentals, photography, flowers, and more.

How to avoid it: Add your local sales tax to every line item in your budget from the beginning. It’s not glamorous, but it’s real. If possible, negotiate an all-inclusive rate or lump-sum payment to keep things simple.

2. Postage Stamps

Why it adds up: That gorgeous, oversized, tri-fold vellum-wrapped invitation suite? It could cost $1.25–$2+ per piece to mail. Multiply that by 100+ guests… yikes.

How to avoid it: Design with postage in mind. Visit your post office with a mock-up invite to get an accurate quote before you print everything.

3. Alterations

Why it adds up: That $250 vow renewal dress you found online? Add another $100–$400 in hemming, reshaping, or re-lacing and it’s not such a bargain anymore. Same for suits.

How to avoid it: Ask up front what typical alterations cost at your chosen boutique—or price out a local tailor with great reviews. Choose well-fitting garments whenever possible to reduce surprises.

4. Rental Delivery & Setup Fees

Why it adds up: You score budget-friendly rentals—but delivery, packaging, and setup fees tack on $150–$600+ depending on distance, timing, and volume.

How to avoid it: Ask for a full breakdown before you book. Compare vendors based on total price—not just per item.

5. DJ or Band Equipment Upgrades

Why it adds up: Your entertainment quote might only include basic sound gear. Larger spaces or outdoor setups often require additional speakers or wireless mics—at hundreds more.

How to avoid it: Give your DJ or band exact venue dimensions and layout info. Ask for a complete equipment list and quote upfront.

6. Vendor Overtime

Why it adds up: When your event runs long (it happens!), your photographer, videographer, or musicians may charge 1.5x–2x their hourly rate for overtime.

How to avoid it: Know your package hours and set a buffer in your timeline. Ask vendors to outline their overtime rates in writing before signing anything.

7. Cake-Cutting Fees

Why it adds up: If you bring an outside cake to a venue with in-house catering, you might get hit with a slicing fee—up to $3 per guest. For 150 guests? That’s $450.

How to avoid it: Ask your venue if there’s a cutting fee before you book or negotiate it into your contract. Sometimes it’s actually cheaper to use the venue’s bakery partner.

8. Gratuities

Why it adds up: Service charges ≠ tips. Gratuities for stylists, bartenders, servers, DJs, and planners can add 15–25% to your final bill.

How to avoid it: Budget for tips from the start. Have envelopes with cash or checks ready ahead of time so you’re not scrambling post-celebration.

Pro Tip: Build a Cushion

Budget 10–15% of your total spend for unplanned or underestimated expenses. That’s your safety net for last-minute changes, upgrades, and yes—hidden vow renewal costs.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a massive budget to create an unforgettable vow renewal—you just need a realistic one. By planning ahead for these not-so-obvious costs, you can celebrate your love without the surprise stress.

Because the only surprises on your big day should be the joyful kind.