Helping engaged couples plan and execute their nuptials might be a calling. It can also be a lucrative business, especially if you have a talent for event planning, photography, cooking, or other services in demand by those preparing to tie the knot. As long as there are people who want to get married in the presence of friends and family, the wedding industry has much to offer these professionals and other vendors. 

Whether you’re starting a business as a main job or a side hustle, there are risks associated with weddings. Insurance coverage helps mitigate uncertainties and losses you may experience. While some types are recommended for enterprises of any size, others are specific to the type of services you offer. Consider these types of insurance for your wedding business.

General Liability

Everyone should have general liability coverage for their business. This covers you when someone else experiences personal injury or property damage while doing business with you. Suppose you’re a florist and you create a floral arrangement that causes a client or a guest to get sick due to an allergy. General liability insurance not only covers any claims for medical bills, but it also can pay for your legal defense. Almost anything can happen on the day of your event, so this basic coverage is essential.

Professional Liability

Couples look to you to provide guidance and expertise on making their big day one they’ll cherish for the rest of their lives. Suppose you recommend something that doesn’t pan out or has some other negative impact on the plan. An upset client may sue you for damages. Professional liability insurance covers you for claims related to mistakes, oversights, or negligence on your part. This type of coverage is also known as errors and omissions or E&O insurance.

Workers’ Compensation

If you plan on having employees to help you get the job done, you may be required by state law to carry workers’ compensation protection. This insurance covers the medical bills and lost wages for workers who are injured while on the job. Workers’ comp also protects you from being sued by an employee. You may not think this protection is necessary for your operations, but you should strongly consider it if you have someone else helping you fulfill your obligations.

Commercial Auto

Wedding vendors usually transport equipment, food, and other products to and from venues in the course of business. A commercial auto policy covers you for property damage and injury for work-related travel. If you or others operate company-owned vehicles for work, you’ll be glad for a commercial auto policy if you get into an accident, especially if you or an employee is at fault.

Cancellation Insurance

Despite the best-laid plans, circumstances beyond your control may lead to cancellation. From natural disasters such as inclement weather to human-made disasters such as the couple not following through, cancellation insurance covers you for losses such as nonrefundable deposits and other costs that have already been paid.  

Liquor Liability

Liquor liability coverage protects you if a minor is served alcohol at the wedding. It can also cover damages or injuries that may result from persons becoming intoxicated due to alcohol served at your event. Many receptions involve wine for toasting as well as free or cash bars. 

Umbrella Coverage

Even with other policies and plans in place, you may need additional coverage. An epic disaster or major incident may result in damages that exceed the limits in your policies. Umbrella insurance, as the name suggests, provides an extra level of protection for your wedding business. 

Weddings are joyous affairs, but they come with risks and exposures that could leave vendors and providers upside down. Mitigate these threats with insurance that factors in every aspect of the work you do. Managing your risks protects you from costly damages and lawsuits that could harm your wedding business.