The Hidden Costs of Weddings No One Warns You About

Alcohol Packages, Corkage Fees, and Minimum Spends: The Real Budget Stretchers

In Portugal, most venues and caterers don’t add service charges or automatic gratuities. However, it’s common for venues to require you to purchase alcohol packages or meet a minimum bar spend—especially for larger weddings. Bringing your own wine or champagne can trigger corkage fees that quickly add up. Always clarify what’s included in your drinks package, ask about corkage, and check if there’s a minimum bar spend before signing any contracts.

Wedding Catering - Pestana Palacio Freixo, Porto

Vendor Meals and Overtime Fees: Planning for the Extras

Your photographer, videographer, DJ, and planner will all need to eat—especially during long wedding days. Many couples forget to budget for vendor meals, which venues often charge at a reduced rate. You can expect to cover at least 5 - 10 vendor meals for a small to medium sized wedding (50 - 100 guests). Don’t forget overtime fees, either: if your celebration runs late, expect extra charges from your venue, band, or transport providers. Hire a Day of Coordinator to manage the timeline and to keep you from running into overtime.

Delivery, Setup, and Breakdown Costs: The Logistics Factor

Rental companies and florists may charge additional fees for delivering, setting up, and collecting items outside regular hours—especially in Portugal’s historic city centers or remote venues. These costs can add up quickly so always request a full quote that includes delivery, setup, and breakdown to avoid unexpected bills.

Venue set up - Pestana Palacio Freixo, Porto

Weather Backup Plans: Tents, Heaters, and Last-Minute Rentals

Portugal’s weather is mostly sunny, but sudden rain or heat waves can disrupt even the best-laid plans. Budget for backup options such as tents, heaters, or fans. Venues may offer these at an added fee, or you might need to arrange rentals yourself. Having a weather contingency fund ensures you’re covered—whatever the forecast brings.

Per Guest Amenities and Transport: The Sneaky Budget Busters

Many couples are surprised by the extra costs tied to guest amenities and group logistics. In Portugal, venues and suppliers charge per guest for welcome bags, shuttle transport, or even hiring extra staff for larger parties. These costs aren’t always clear in the initial proposal as you won't have your confirmed quest count yet, but the guest count can significantly impact your final budget. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of all per guest charges and confirm what’s truly included.

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