You may be able to purchase two types of coverage to help protect your upcoming event — cancellation coverage and liability coverage.

Event cancellation coverage

Event cancellation coverage may help reimburse you for lost deposits and other fees — up to your coverage limit — should something unexpected force you to delay or cancel your function. If your photographer closes shop suddenly, you'll likely be covered for the cost of the lost deposit and potentially unexpected charges from having to book another photographer at the last minute. If your officiant breaks his leg the day before your wedding and you're forced to postpone, this coverage may help pay fees associated with rescheduling the venue, caterer and other vendors. Be sure to check your policy to find out what types of situations may or may not be covered.

Event liability coverage

Event liability coverage may help protect you if you're found responsible for property damage or an injury caused during your event, and many venues require you to have it. If the band you hired damages a wall with their gear, for example, this coverage may help pay for repairs. Some policies also cover incidents caused by your guests. So, if someone gets a little wild on the dance floor and trips a waiter as he walks by, event liability coverage may help pay for medical expenses resulting from an injury. Remember, a coverage limit will apply. Keep in mind that while event liability coverage may help protect equipment that you rent from your venue, it likely will not pay for damage to equipment rented from a third-party company that's not associated with the venue. Again, make sure to read your policy to find out what kinds of situations it does and does not cover.