Planning your wedding is an exciting time filled with decisions about venues, vendors, and décor. But amidst the excitement, it’s crucial to stay vigilant—scammers prey on engaged couples who are under pressure to finalize details quickly. With the wedding industry valued at a staggering $94 billion and over 2.6 million weddings happening each year, it’s no surprise that fraudsters are eager to take advantage.
To help you avoid costly mistakes, we’ve gathered expert insights from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) on common wedding scams and how to protect yourself.
Common Wedding Scams to Avoid
1. Fake Wedding Websites and Social Media Profiles
Scammers set up fraudulent websites and social media accounts offering steep discounts on wedding dresses, decorations, and accessories. These fake vendors often steal photos from legitimate businesses to appear authentic.
How to Avoid It:
- Look for verified reviews on third-party platforms (BBB.org, Google Reviews, or Trustpilot).
- Avoid deals that seem too good to be true.
- Verify the seller’s contact information and business address.
- Pay with a credit card to ensure fraud protection.
2. Vanishing Vendors
Some fraudulent vendors ask for a hefty deposit and then disappear, leaving couples without a photographer, florist, or DJ as their wedding date approaches.
How to Avoid It:
- Research vendors thoroughly and check their BBB ratings.
- Ask for references from past clients.
- Pay in installments rather than in full upfront.
- Ensure you have a detailed, signed contract that outlines services, deadlines, and refund policies.
3. Wedding Sweepstakes & Contest Scams
You may receive a congratulatory message saying you’ve won a wedding giveaway or honeymoon trip—but if you don’t remember entering, be skeptical. Many of these scams require you to pay “processing fees” to claim your prize, which is a major red flag.
How to Avoid It:
- Remember, if you didn’t enter a contest, you didn’t win.
- Never pay upfront fees for a prize.
- Confirm with the contest’s official website or organizer before giving out any personal information.
4. Bogus Discounted Services
Some scammers pose as professional photographers, videographers, or makeup artists and offer deep discounts to lure in couples. On the wedding day, they either fail to show up or deliver poor-quality services.
How to Avoid It:
- Meet vendors in person or via video chat before booking.
- Ask to see full portfolios, not just highlight reels.
- Read contracts carefully to ensure refund policies are in place.
- Avoid paying in full before services are rendered.
5. Counterfeit or Stolen Wedding Attire
Bridal scams often involve fake designer dresses sold online at unbelievably low prices. Many couples end up receiving poorly made replicas or nothing at all.
How to Avoid It:
- Shop from reputable retailers with a clear return policy.
- Check the designer’s official website for authorized sellers.
- Be wary of sites that only accept wire transfers or gift cards as payment.
How to Protect Yourself From Wedding Scams
1. Do Your Homework
- Research every vendor and verify their reputation through platforms like BBB.org.
- Read multiple reviews, not just the ones on the vendor’s website.
- Ask for referrals from trusted friends or wedding planners.
2. Pay Smartly
- Use a credit card for payments so you can dispute fraudulent charges if needed.
- Avoid paying in full upfront; opt for installments with the final payment due upon delivery of services.
- Get everything in writing with detailed contracts that outline expectations, deadlines, and refund policies.
3. Beware of Pressure Tactics
- Scammers often create urgency, claiming “limited-time deals” to rush you into making decisions.
- Take your time to vet vendors thoroughly and ensure you’re comfortable with your choices.
4. Double-Check Business Legitimacy
- Look for an official website, business license, and physical location.
- Be cautious of businesses that only communicate via email or social media without a valid phone number.
- Check BBB Wedding HQ for trusted resources and scam alerts.
Final Thoughts
Your wedding should be a joyful celebration, not a source of financial stress due to scams. By staying informed and cautious, you can protect your budget and peace of mind. Do your research, verify vendors, and trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is.
For more wedding planning tips and savvy budgeting advice, check out our other guides on The Budget Savvy Bride.
Stay savvy and plan your day, your way!
