1. Extra Fees for enhanced Lighting

Lighting can make or break the atmosphere at your wedding, but the cost often extends beyond basic venue lighting. You may need to budget for:

• Upgraded lighting options like uplighting, spotlights, or custom colour lighting.
• Additional power needs for outdoor or larger venues, which may require a generator.
• Lighting for themed areas like a dance floor or cake table, especially for dramatic effects.
• Exterior lighting to enhance the garden, walkways or exterior of the building

Tip: Always ask your lighting provider if they charge extra for setup, breakdown, or enhanced lighting requests.

2. Sound System Hire

While most venues offer basic sound equipment, you might find that it’s insufficient for your needs:

• Microphones for speeches, vows, and toasts: Often, additional mics aren’t included in the basic sound packages.
• Speakers for outdoor wedding ceremonies: If your wedding ceremony is held outdoors, you might need additional speakers for even sound coverage.
• Sound system for either the band or a DJ. Often you may require the system earlier in the proceedings and therefore it can be sensible to hire it in through the production company rather than through the band or DJ.
• Sound engineer fees: For large-scale setups or intricate sound needs (like custom playlists or live bands), you may require a sound engineer, adding to your budget.

Tip: Double-check if the venue provides audio equipment or if you need to hire separate systems for different parts of the wedding.

3. Custom Theming Costs

Custom wedding themes are becoming more popular, but they often come with unexpected costs:

• Props and backdrops: If you want a personalized photo booth or a custom backdrop, the cost of hiring or creating them can add up.
• Themed decorations: Think custom signs, table centrepieces, or custom floral arrangements designed to fit your theme.

Tip: Consider DIY options or check with the supplier for package deals that may include theming services at a discount.

4. Additional Decor Items

Decor plays a huge role in the aesthetic of your wedding, but it’s easy to overlook some extra pieces:

• Floral arrangements for areas like the altar, reception tables, and the guest book.
• Table linens, chargers, and napkins: These may not be included with the venue's hire fee.
• Hire furniture: If you’re looking for lounge areas or special seating arrangements, these are typically rented separately.

Tip: Request detailed quotes from decor providers to ensure everything you want is included in the cost.

5. Power and Extension Cords for Outdoor Events

Outdoor weddings, while picturesque, come with their own set of challenges, including electricity needs:

• Generators for power, especially if the venue doesn’t provide electricity.
• Extension cords and power strips for additional lighting, sound equipment, or photo booths.
• Power consumption fees: Some venues charge extra if you need significant power for lighting and sound.

Tip: Confirm if the venue charges for electricity, and plan for these costs when choosing outdoor locations.

6. Venue Coordination and Setup Fees

Some venues charge extra for setup and teardown of lighting and decor:

• Coordination fees: This covers the coordination of vendors and the setup of lighting, sound, and decor.
• Late-night removal: If your event runs late, you may incur additional charges for taking down decor, lighting, and sound equipment.

Tip: Check the venue contract for any clauses related to event coordination or overtime fees.

7. Sound or Lighting Equipment for Reception Dance Floors

The sound and lighting for a lively reception often go beyond what’s standard:

• Dance floor lighting: Special lighting effects like disco balls, strobes, or colour-changing lights for the dance floor.
• Additional sound equipment: If you’re hiring a DJ or live band, you may need to pay extra for enhanced audio equipment, such as subwoofers or additional speakers.

Tip: Ensure the entertainment package you select includes all the sound and lighting components you need.

8. Insurance for Event Equipment

When you rent lighting, sound, and theming, there’s often a need for damage insurance:

• Hire insurance: Some vendors charge an additional fee for event equipment insurance, which covers potential damage or loss.
• Venue insurance: Some venues also require you to have specific insurance to cover damage to their property, including electrical outlets or damage from heavy decor.

Tip: Don’t forget to inquire about insurance options from your lighting, sound, and Theming providers to avoid unexpected expenses.

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By keeping an eye out for these hidden costs, you can better manage your wedding budget and ensure your day is as beautiful and stress-free as possible. Always make sure to ask suppliers detailed questions about what’s included and if there are any additional charges for special requests. With the right planning, your wedding production will be as flawless as your vision!

If you are planning a wedding and think you need help with either the Organisation, Production or Theming, Peachy are here for you either by Phone: 01483724751, or email.