Weddings are EXPENSIVE! But if you plan carefully there might be a way to get some tax write-offs.

Yes I said tax write-offs! Here are 6 you should pay attention while planning your wedding:

1. The Venue. If you are getting married at a historical museum or garden, a state or national park, the fee you pay may be tax-deductible as a donation. Same if you are going to have your reception there.

1. The Church. Most likely you have to pay a fee to get married in church, that fee might be tax deductible if the church is a non-profit. If not, ask whether the church waives ceremony fees for members who donate a certain amount. You might be able to do a donation to the church, have your fee waived, get a tax deduction and feel good about donating to a good cause.
2. The Food: Thanks to the Good Samaritan Food Donation Act you may be able to donate the leftovers. Ask the venue or caterer to package the leftovers and then you or a family member can drop them off at an IRS recognized non-profit organization that feeds others. The organization will give you a donation letter that you can use for a tax deduction.
3. Flowers:  At the end of the night most flowers get tossed. Instead have a friend take the flowers to a homeless shelter, women’s center, or similar non-profit organization. Some florists and event planners might be able to help for a fee. Not only will you have done something amazing, but with a receipt, you’ll be able to take a tax deduction for the value of the items donated.
4. The Gown: Donate your wedding dress to a non-profit organization such as Making Memories or Brides Against Breast Cancer, and you’ll help others. The same goes for the flower girl and bridesmaid dresses, as well as candles and other decorations that won’t spoil. It is such a kind act that will also get you a tax deduction.
5. Gifts: Instead traditional gift wish list, you can create a charity registry through My Registry and encourage guests to donate to your favorite cause. You can also choose 1 or 2 charities and make the donations on behalf of your guests after the wedding. Donations are tax-deductible so your guests can feel good while giving back and celebrating you at the same time. Same goes for wedding favors. Make a donation to a charity on behalf of everyone at your wedding as a “Thank You” for being part of your special day. Have a nice Thank You card ready for your guests with the name of the charity you donated.

Ask your account if there are any other ways you can get a tax deduction for your wedding when you are planning.

Weddings are expensive but you can do a kind act for others and have your beautiful day.

Happy wedding planning!

Hugs,

Ela