There is so much to think about when planning a wedding. It might well be the most stressful event you’ll ever plan. But in the chaos of organizing everything from the wedding venue to bridal entourage gifts, many couples fail to realize the importance of liability insurance for their big day, and every related gathering leading up to it.
According to Kris Moffat, an insurance broker for Hub International, weddings, socials, and bridal showers are places where unfortunate or even tragic events can occur and bridal couples or hosting venues may be unprepared to deal with them. These things might include fire damage or vandalism to a rented facility, a wedding being called off resulting in significant losses of deposits, a slip and fall resulting in personal injury, or the many risks related to alcohol consumption. Lawsuits are a realistic possibility when it comes to hosting events where groups are in attendance.
“We highly recommend [insurance] coverage,” says Moffat. “These are all fun, life-changing events and people would not want to leave themselves or their assets exposed to liability. Many unforeseen tragic incidents happen and they would not want their special event ruined.”
Moffat says there are a variety of liability packages available that provide coverage for bodily injury and property damage.
“Many people assume that the hall or facility which they are renting will have automatic coverage,” adds Moffat. “Some venues may provide coverage and others may not. Individuals hosting these functions will always want to check with the facility to see if they have coverage. If they do, they will want to obtain a certificate of insurance.”
For events where alcohol is served, Host Liquor Liability coverage, a separate policy, is also very important. A lawsuit resulting from an alcohol-related incident can hold every party responsible, from the venue to the person or persons hosting the event to the liquor license holder.
“Host Liquor Liability offers protection for any liability claims related to alcohol,” says Moffat. “An example may be someone leaving a venue very intoxicated and driving, causing damage or injury. The individual hosting the event can be held liable for alcohol-related claims. Some venues that specialize in liquor may include coverage with the rental. If that is done—which is rare—I would recommend that the individuals renting the facility get a certificate of insurance from the venue and also be added as an ‘additional insured’ in respects to liability. That way they can be covered and defended under the venue’s policy. If the facility cannot extend coverage to the event, [the hosts] will want to purchase their own coverage. If the facility can extend coverage to the event, they can still purchase their own policy in case they are not comfortable with the coverage or limits.”
Moffat reminds couples to consider all the different aspects of their wedding, including rehearsal parties, socials, ceremony, and reception if they are taking place at different locations. For this reason, having your own insurance extending to all facilities is ideal.
Some insurance companies offer specially designed policies that provide additional protection beyond just liability. They can include wedding cancellation, honeymoon cancellation, deposit loss, photo and video protection, loss or damage to bridal attire, wedding gifts, rings, wedding cake and flowers, wedding stationary, and rented items. Many of the loss or damage policies include coverage prior to the wedding.
Considering the many risks and the huge financial investment you’re making to create the perfect wedding day, insurance may well be the best investment you make.
