When it comes to planning your wedding, there's a lot to think about. What kind of flowers do you want? Will you be able to reserve the venue you want? Where in the world are you going to find bridesmaid dresses your wedding party can actually wear again? While putting together your wedding to-do list, however, it's important to look beyond the aesthetic of the celebration and consider protecting the investment you are making by purchasing wedding insurance. According to the 2020 American Wedding Survey from Brides.com, the average cost of a wedding in the U.S. is $28,964, and that number isn't likely to go down anytime soon. Of course, this will vary by location and the couple's preferences but, regardless of your budget, it's important to have a safety net in place just in case things go awry. Many couples in 2020 learned this lesson the hard way when the weddings they had planned (and paid for) were abruptly cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many had to wave 'goodbye' to deposits they'd made for the venue, caterer, band, etc. Of course, it doesn't take a worldwide pandemic to cause trouble for engaged couples. There are plenty of losses that can happen during wedding planning, and the event itself, that can leave the bride and groom scrambling financially if left to cover those expenses on their own. The slideshow above shows the most common wedding insurance claims reported in 2021, according to Travelers Insurance.

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