As peak wedding season approaches, Travelers Companies, Inc. offers tips for brides and grooms.

According to the insurer’s data, vendor issues (45 percent) were the leading cause of paid wedding insurance claims in 2023, followed by property damage (18 percent), illness and injury (14 percent) and severe weather (12 percent).

“Knowing what has gone wrong for others can help couples as they prepare for their big day,” said Todd Shasha, AVP of Personal Insurance at Travelers. “With vendor-related issues consistently topping the list, it’s important to thoroughly evaluate your options before making a choice.”

Some tips for couples planning their big day:

• Research vendors before making any deposits. Seek out reviews or referrals from multiple sources and conduct thorough online research before finalizing any financial commitments, the insurer said.
• Plan for seasonal and regional weather risks. From hurricanes to blizzards, weather disruptions can impact travel arrangements and venue accessibility, Travelers added. Create contingency plans to mitigate potential setbacks caused by Mother Nature.
• Consider wedding insurance to provide peace of mind. Venue closures, sudden illnesses, lost or damaged wedding attire – unforeseen circumstances can lead to lost deposits and unanticipated expenses.

“With an active hurricane season forecast, it’s especially important to remember that wedding insurance can help protect your big day if you purchase it in advance of any named storm or weather event,” Shasha added. “Securing a policy early can help ensure that any weather-related disruptions do not result in financial losses or unmanageable stress as your wedding day approaches.”