7 wedding expenses that may be tax-deductible
Weddings are expensive. While the event itself is not tax-deductible, some related costs can qualify as charitable contributions if you plan and follow the rules.
Use this guide to see where you might save.
Quick reminders before we start
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Deductions here are about charitable giving, not “wedding write-offs.”
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You must donate to a qualified 501(c)(3) organization.
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You generally need to itemize to claim charitable deductions.
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Keep receipts and acknowledgment letters for your records.
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If you receive something in return for a payment, you can only deduct the amount above the fair market value of what you received.
1) The ceremony location or church
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What may qualify: Any extra donation you make with no benefit in return.
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What usually does not: Required ceremony fees that cover services like space, clergy, music, or admin. That is a fee for service, not a donation.
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Tip: If you also give a separate, voluntary gift, ask for a written acknowledgment that shows any goods or services you received were “none.”
2) Museums, historic venues, parks
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What may qualify: Some venues are run by charities. A pure donation to support the organization may be deductible.
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What usually does not: Rental or event fees that pay for space, security, or staff.
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Tip: Ask the venue to clearly separate any donation portion from rental or service charges on your agreement and receipt.
3) Flowers and decor
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What may qualify: Donating bouquets, centerpieces, or decor after the event to a qualified nonprofit such as a shelter, hospital auxiliary, or senior center. Deduct the fair market value at the time of donation, which may be less than what you paid.
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What usually does not: Payments to your florist for goods and services.
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Tip: Assign a trusted friend to deliver the items and get a dated receipt from the nonprofit.
4) The gown and formalwear
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What may qualify: Donating your gown, suits, bridesmaid dresses, accessories, or decor items to a qualified charity. Deduct the reasonable fair market value.
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What usually does not: Alterations, dry cleaning, or purchase costs you keep for personal use.
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Tip: Many charities accept formalwear. Get a written acknowledgment and keep photos to support value.
5) Food
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What may qualify: Donating leftover catered food in good condition to a qualified nonprofit that accepts prepared food. Deduct the reasonable value at donation time.
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What usually does not: The catering fee itself.
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Tip: Talk to your caterer in advance about safe handling and packaging. Arrange delivery and get a donation letter from the organization.
6) Wedding favors
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What may qualify: Making a charitable donation in lieu of favors. The donation is generally deductible.
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What usually does not: The cost of trinkets or edible favors for guests.
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Tip: Include a small card at each place setting noting the charity. Keep the charity’s acknowledgment for your records.
7) Gift registry options
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What may qualify: A charity registry that directs gifts to a 501(c)(3). Your guests may get the tax deduction on their gifts.
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What usually does not: Your household registry items.
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Tip: Share the charity’s details so guests receive proper receipts.
How to make it count
Do this
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Confirm nonprofit status. Make sure the organization is a qualified 501(c)(3).
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Separate fees from gifts. Ask vendors and venues to clearly show what is a service and what is a donation.
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Document value. Keep receipts, contracts, photos, delivery slips, and acknowledgment letters.
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Itemize at tax time. Charitable deductions go on Schedule A when you itemize.
Avoid this
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Treating venue fees or required ceremony charges as donations
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Valuing donated flowers or food at the original purchase price if their condition has changed
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Donating to groups that are not qualified charities
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Forgetting to collect written acknowledgments
Bottom line
Your wedding costs are mostly personal expenses. But if you build in true charitable giving and document it well, parts of your celebration can also do real good and may lower your tax bill. Plan ahead, get receipts, and enjoy the day.