A small sum that can save your big day.
You devote months to planning, working out every detail for what should be a perfect event. Unfortunately, even the best planned events are at the mercy of the unexpected. Like a flood that ruins your venue. Or a caterer who inexplicably goes bottom up. And chances are, you'll still be on the hook for all or most of the costs. Thankfully, special event insurance can help protect what you've invested in your event should the unexpected put a dark cloud over your big day.
What is special event insurance?
Special event insurance helps cover financial losses that may occur when an accident, extreme weather, illness or a problem with a key vendor puts a stop to your private event. Policies often cost less than you might expect and typically offer two types of coverage:
Event cancellation coverage reimburses you for lost deposits and other charges when unforeseen circumstances cause you to cancel or postpone your function. This type of coverage may extend to special gifts, attire (lost wedding bands, for instance) and damaged photo and video files. It does not, however, cover a change of heart.
Event liability coverage helps protect you from financial loss if you're held responsible for an accident that hurts someone or causes property damage at your event. You may even be covered if one of your guests creates havoc. Many venues now require you to have liability protection before you can even book there.
What types of functions are covered?
Events that are covered by special event insurance include but are not limited to:
- Weddings
- Engagement parties
- Business meetings
- Non-Profit functions
- Retirement parties
- Anniversary parties
- Corporate events
What types of functions are not covered?
Special event insurance is not available for every event, including:
- Sporting events
- Events with greater than 500 guests
- Events at remote locations
- Bachelor/Bachelorette parties
- Color runs
- Gun shows
- Animal shows
When should I buy special event insurance?
It's a good idea to purchase a policy as soon as you begin making deposits, because unexpected issues can crop up at any point. That said, you need to buy event cancellation coverage at least 14 days before your function date and liability coverage at least one day prior. You can buy both up to 24 months in advance.
No one wants to think about something unpleasant when planning an important day, but it's nice to know there's a policy that can help protect you from the unexpected. Talk to an Allstate agent about how you can help safeguard your big day.