W edding planning is likely to be one of the most exciting times of your life. Not only are you planning a huge event where all of your loved ones will gather together, but you’re also planning the start of your new life with your future spouse.
And while wedding planning may be an exciting time, it’s also an expensive one. According to The Knot, the average couple spent $30,000 on their wedding in 2022. And in high cost of living areas, even sticking to that budget can be a challenge.
The good news is that having the right credit cards in your wallet can help you save money and earn rewards for your wedding spending. No, it’s not going to lower your costs by any significant percentage. But when you’re spending that much, any extra bit counts.
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Best Credit Cards for Wedding Expenses
There’s no shortage of excellent credit cards on the market, often offering impressive sign-up bonuses, cash back, and other perks. We’ve rounded up seven of our favorite credit cards for wedding expenses. Keep reading to learn more
Best for cash back - Citi® Double Cash Card
Why we like it:
- The Citi Double Cash Card stands out as an ideal companion for wedding planning due to its straightforward and generous cash back system. In the midst of organizing a wedding, simplicity is key. With this card, you're not only managing your expenses efficiently, but you're also earning valuable rewards along the way. The 2% cash back rate provides a significant financial boost, ensuring that even routine wedding purchases contribute to your overall savings.
- Furthermore, the lack of an annual fee means you can allocate more funds towards creating the perfect celebration. This is particularly valuable for couples looking to make the most of their wedding budget. With the Citi Double Cash Card, you're not just planning a wedding; you're also making a savvy financial choice. It's a win-win situation for couples seeking a seamless and rewarding credit card experience during this special time.
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Why we like it:
- The Citi Double Cash Card stands out as an ideal companion for wedding planning due to its straightforward and generous cash back system. In the midst of organizing a wedding, simplicity is key. With this card, you're not only managing your expenses efficiently, but you're also earning valuable rewards along the way. The 2% cash back rate provides a significant financial boost, ensuring that even routine wedding purchases contribute to your overall savings.
- Furthermore, the lack of an annual fee means you can allocate more funds towards creating the perfect celebration. This is particularly valuable for couples looking to make the most of their wedding budget. With the Citi Double Cash Card, you're not just planning a wedding; you're also making a savvy financial choice. It's a win-win situation for couples seeking a seamless and rewarding credit card experience during this special time.
- Rewards earned as ThankYou Points, giving you the flexibility to choose how to use them for your wedding needs.
- Ability to combine points across multiple Citi cards for even greater rewards potential.
- Low foreign transaction fee (3%), making it suitable for honeymoon expenses abroad.
The Citi Double Cash Card is one of the most popular cash back credit cards on the market because of its high rewards rate on every purchase. When you spend with your Citi Double Cash, you’ll get 2% back on every purchase. You’ll get the first 1% when you make the purchase, and the other 1% back when you pay it off. It’s a great way to make the most of your wedding spending.
The Citi Double Cash doesn’t come with a welcome bonus or many of the other perks that more premium cards have, but it does exactly what a cash back card should do. It also offers a few additional benefits, including identity theft solutions and special access to tickets on thousands of events, including presales.
Finally, if you’re looking for a card to put some of your wedding spending on while also taking advantage of a balance transfer, the Citi Double Cash might be the right option. This card offers 0% interest on balance transfers (but not purchases) for 18 months.
Pros
- Simple, flat-rate cash back system with no categories or caps, ideal for various wedding expenses.
- No annual fee, ensuring more budget flexibility for your special day.
- 0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months, offering potential interest savings during wedding planning.
Cons
- No bonus categories, which might not make it the highest-earning card for very specific wedding-related purchases.
- No introductory APR on purchases, which may be a consideration for couples planning significant wedding expenses.
Best for honeymoon rewards - Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Why we like it:
- The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a standout choice for financing wedding expenses due to its exceptional rewards program. The generous sign-up bonus provides a substantial head start, and the multi-faceted rewards system ensures that you earn points on a wide range of expenses associated with wedding planning.
- Additionally, the ability to redeem points through Chase Ultimate Rewards® for travel offers a compelling value proposition. The 25% bonus on travel redemptions means your points go even further, making this card particularly appealing for those planning a honeymoon or destination wedding.
- Furthermore, the card's lack of foreign transaction fees is a significant benefit for couples considering an overseas celebration. The primary rental car coverage and Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance offer added peace of mind during what can be a hectic time.
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Why we like it:
- The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a standout choice for financing wedding expenses due to its exceptional rewards program. The generous sign-up bonus provides a substantial head start, and the multi-faceted rewards system ensures that you earn points on a wide range of expenses associated with wedding planning.
- Additionally, the ability to redeem points through Chase Ultimate Rewards® for travel offers a compelling value proposition. The 25% bonus on travel redemptions means your points go even further, making this card particularly appealing for those planning a honeymoon or destination wedding.
- Furthermore, the card's lack of foreign transaction fees is a significant benefit for couples considering an overseas celebration. The primary rental car coverage and Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance offer added peace of mind during what can be a hectic time.
$200 in additional partnership benefit value, enhancing the card's overall value proposition.
My Chase Plan® allows eligible cardholders to break up larger purchases into fixed monthly payments, providing added flexibility.
No foreign transaction fees, saving couples money if they plan to use the card for expenses abroad.
Bonus points equal to 10% of total purchases made the previous year on each account anniversary, rewarding ongoing loyalty.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card also comes with the following spending rewards:
- 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
- 2X points on other travel purchases
- 3X points on dining, including delivery, takeout, and dining out
- 3X points on online grocery purchases
- 3X points on streaming services
- 1X points on other spending
If you’re looking for a credit card you can use to pay for your wedding expenses and help pay for the honeymoon, look for further than the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. This card was designed with travel in mind, while still offering high rewards on your regular spending.
First, when you sign up for the Sapphire Preferred, you’ll get a 60,000 point signup bonus when you spend $4,000 in the first three months after opening your account. That 60,000 point equates to either $600 in cash or $750 when redeemed through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card also comes with the following spending rewards:
- 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
- 2X points on other travel purchases
- 3X points on dining, including delivery, takeout, and dining out
- 3X points on online grocery purchases
- 3X points on streaming services
- 1X points on other spending
In addition to the welcome bonus and spending rewards, the Sapphire Preferred also comes with a few other perks. It offers a $50 annual hotel credit, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, rental car insurance, baggage delay insurance, trip delay reimbursement, purchase protection, extended warranty protection, and more.
Pros
- Lucrative sign-up bonus offer provides immediate value.
- Bonus categories cover a wide range of wedding-related expenses.
- Primary rental car coverage adds a layer of security for destination weddings or travel plans.
- Flexible rewards redemption options, including valuable transfer partners, allow for optimal use of points.
Cons
- The card carries an annual fee of $95, which may not be ideal for budget-conscious couples.
- Requires a good to excellent credit score, potentially excluding some applicants.
- The rewards program, while robust, may be considered complex for those seeking simplicity.
Best welcome bonus - American Express Platinum
Why we like it:
- The Platinum Card® from American Express is a standout choice for couples preparing for their special day. While the annual fee is higher than many other cards, the array of benefits and credits offered more than justifies the cost for those who intend to maximize them. This card is not just about saving money; it's about enhancing the overall wedding experience.
- The $695 annual fee may seem steep, but when considering the extensive range of benefits, it becomes clear that this card is tailored for those who appreciate luxury and exclusivity. For couples frequently traveling for wedding planning or honeymooning, the card's focus on travel-related rewards, along with generous annual statement credits, can lead to significant savings. Moreover, the additional perks, such as lounge access, hotel upgrades, and exclusive reservations, add a touch of sophistication to any wedding-related journey.
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Why we like it:
- The Platinum Card® from American Express is a standout choice for couples preparing for their special day. While the annual fee is higher than many other cards, the array of benefits and credits offered more than justifies the cost for those who intend to maximize them. This card is not just about saving money; it's about enhancing the overall wedding experience.
- The $695 annual fee may seem steep, but when considering the extensive range of benefits, it becomes clear that this card is tailored for those who appreciate luxury and exclusivity. For couples frequently traveling for wedding planning or honeymooning, the card's focus on travel-related rewards, along with generous annual statement credits, can lead to significant savings. Moreover, the additional perks, such as lounge access, hotel upgrades, and exclusive reservations, add a touch of sophistication to any wedding-related journey.
- Airline Fee Credit can be applied towards incidental fees charged by airlines, such as baggage fees or in-flight purchases.
- CLEAR Credit grants a credit towards CLEAR, a service that expedites airport security and other checkpoints.
- Airport Lounge Access allows entry to a network of airport lounges for a comfortable pre-flight experience.
- Global Entry or TSA Precheck Fee Credit expedites security checks at airports for more efficient travel.
- Hotel and Rental Car Benefits include elite status with hotel chains like Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors, leading to potential room upgrades and complimentary breakfasts. Additionally, receive rental car insurance coverage.
- Trip Insurance encompasses various forms of travel insurance, including coverage for trip delays and cancellations, providing peace of mind during important events like weddings.
That being said, what the Amex Platinum lacks in spending rewards, it makes up for with other perks. Here are some of the other benefits this card offers:
- $200 annual hotel credit
- $240 annual digital entertainment credit
- $155 annual Warmart+ credit
- Airport lounge access
- $200 annual Uber credit
- $200 annual airline fee credit
- $300 annual Equinox credit
- $100 annual Saks Fifth Avenue credit
- $179 CLEAR credit
- Global dining access by Resy
- Fee credit for Global Entry or TSA Precheck
- Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status
- Hilton Honors Gold Status
- Rental car insurance
- Trip delay insurance
- Trip cancellation insurance
Pros
- Extensive range of benefits and credits, particularly for travel-related expenses.
- High rewards rate on flights and prepaid hotels, making it ideal for destination weddings.
- Access to exclusive airport lounges worldwide, enhancing the travel experience.
- Valuable hotel benefits and upgrades with participating brands like Marriott and Hilton.
- Additional perks like cell phone protection and concierge service add convenience and security.
Cons
- High annual fee of $695, which may not be justified for those who won’t fully utilize the benefits.
- Limited redemption options for Membership Rewards points compared to some other cards.
- Some benefits may require enrollment or have specific usage conditions, which may require additional effort to fully utilize.
Best for 0% interest - U.S. Bank Visa Platinum
Why we like it:
- The U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card is a standout choice for covering wedding expenses due to its unparalleled 0% introductory APR offer. It provides couples with the financial flexibility they need during this significant life event.
- The absence of an annual fee is a major plus, as it means that every dollar spent is directly contributing to the wedding fund. Moreover, the cell phone protection feature is a thoughtful bonus, offering a layer of security for a commonly used and expensive device.
Annual Fees
$0
Regular APR
14.49% – 24.49%
Credit Required
Good/excellent
Annual Fees
$0
Regular APR
14.49% – 24.49%
Credit Required
Good/excellent
Why we like it:
- The U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card is a standout choice for covering wedding expenses due to its unparalleled 0% introductory APR offer. It provides couples with the financial flexibility they need during this significant life event.
- The absence of an annual fee is a major plus, as it means that every dollar spent is directly contributing to the wedding fund. Moreover, the cell phone protection feature is a thoughtful bonus, offering a layer of security for a commonly used and expensive device.
- Accessible online and mobile banking for seamless account monitoring and transactions.
- Balance transfers allowed for effective debt management.
- Cell phone protection for added security and peace of mind.
- Flexible credit score requirement caters to a broader applicant base.
- Multiple payment options for convenient financial management.
You won’t get a signup bonus or the spending rewards you might expect with another card, so you’ll have to decide which feature is most important to you.
Pros
- Lengthy 0% APR period on both purchases and balance transfers.
- No annual fee, making it a cost-effective choice for financing wedding expenses.
- Cell phone protection adds an extra layer of security for a commonly used device.
Cons
- Lack of a rewards program may be a downside for those seeking cashback or points.
- Balance transfer fee of 3% or $5 minimum, whichever is greater, should be considered when transferring balances.
Best for a first anniversary trip - Discover it Miles
Why we like it:
- The Discover it® Miles card stands out as an excellent choice for covering wedding expenses. Its $0 annual fee ensures you won't have to worry about added costs while you prepare for your big day. The 0% intro APR for 15 months on both purchases and balance transfers offers a significant breathing room for managing expenses. This is particularly beneficial for those planning and budgeting for a wedding, where costs can add up quickly.
- One of the standout features is the unlimited bonus offered by Discover, matching all the Miles you earn in your first year. This means if you accumulate 35,000 Miles, you'll receive an additional 35,000 - a remarkable offer. This could translate into substantial savings for wedding-related travel, accommodations, and other expenses. Additionally, the card provides 1.5x Miles for every dollar spent, a competitive rate for a card with no annual fee.
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Why we like it:
- The Discover it® Miles card stands out as an excellent choice for covering wedding expenses. Its $0 annual fee ensures you won't have to worry about added costs while you prepare for your big day. The 0% intro APR for 15 months on both purchases and balance transfers offers a significant breathing room for managing expenses. This is particularly beneficial for those planning and budgeting for a wedding, where costs can add up quickly.
- One of the standout features is the unlimited bonus offered by Discover, matching all the Miles you earn in your first year. This means if you accumulate 35,000 Miles, you'll receive an additional 35,000 - a remarkable offer. This could translate into substantial savings for wedding-related travel, accommodations, and other expenses. Additionally, the card provides 1.5x Miles for every dollar spent, a competitive rate for a card with no annual fee.
- Flexible redemption options allow Miles to be used for cash or statement credits on various travel expenses.
- No minimum redemption amount, convenient for covering smaller wedding expenses.
- 15-month 0% APR period provides financial flexibility for planning and managing wedding costs.
- No foreign transaction fees, ideal for destination weddings or honeymoons abroad.
For example, if you earn 50,000 miles in the first year — which you could easily do paying for wedding expenses — then Discover will double it so you have 1,000 points. That’s $1,000 to put toward a big trip.
Pros
- Lucrative sign-up bonus boosts initial rewards significantly.
- Competitive rewards rate with no annual fee.
- Versatile redemption options for maximum value.
- Freedom to redeem even small amounts.
- 0% APR period aids in managing wedding expenses.
Cons
- Limited premium travel benefits compared to other cards.
- Variable APR may be higher for those with lower credit scores.
Best for bonus categories - American Express Gold
Why we like it:
- For couples planning a wedding, the American Express® Gold Card is a standout choice. Its generous rewards structure caters especially to those who spend heavily on dining and groceries. With 4X points at restaurants, including takeout and delivery, and 4X points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 annually), it aligns perfectly with the expenses typically associated with wedding preparations. The card's welcome bonus of 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after a reasonable $6,000 spend in the first 6 months further sweetens the deal.
- What sets this card apart, though, are the practical benefits for engaged couples. The $120 annual dining credit can be a lifesaver, with a range of popular dining establishments covered. The $120 Uber Cash is a handy perk for transportation to and from wedding-related events. The card also offers an enticing $100 experience credit with a two-night stay, providing an excellent opportunity for a pre-wedding getaway or a mini-honeymoon.
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Why we like it:
- For couples planning a wedding, the American Express® Gold Card is a standout choice. Its generous rewards structure caters especially to those who spend heavily on dining and groceries. With 4X points at restaurants, including takeout and delivery, and 4X points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 annually), it aligns perfectly with the expenses typically associated with wedding preparations. The card's welcome bonus of 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after a reasonable $6,000 spend in the first 6 months further sweetens the deal.
- What sets this card apart, though, are the practical benefits for engaged couples. The $120 annual dining credit can be a lifesaver, with a range of popular dining establishments covered. The $120 Uber Cash is a handy perk for transportation to and from wedding-related events. The card also offers an enticing $100 experience credit with a two-night stay, providing an excellent opportunity for a pre-wedding getaway or a mini-honeymoon.
- Membership Rewards® points are transferable to various loyalty programs, offering flexibility for travel plans.
- No foreign transaction fees, making it a reliable companion for honeymoon adventures abroad.
- 4X points at Restaurants, plus takeout and U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year).
- 3X points on flights booked directly or on amextravel.com.
- Enjoy $120 Uber Cash annually for Uber Eats or rides.
- Receive up to $120 in monthly Dining Credits at select establishments.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
The American Express Gold is one of the best overall credit cards when you look at the signup bonus, spending rewards, and other card perks. First, you’ll get 60,000 points when you spend $4,000 in the first six months. And they currently have a special going where you can earn 75,000 points. Those points are worth between 0.5 and 2.0 cents per point, depending on how you redeem them.
One of the biggest benefits of the Amex Gold is the spending rewards. Here are a few different ways you can earn points:
- 4X points on dining, including restaurants, takeout, and delivery
- 4X points on groceries
- 3X points on flights
- 1X points on other purchases
In addition to the signup bonus and spending rewards, the Amex Gold offers several other perks. For example, you’ll get a $120 annual Uber credit for either food delivery or rideshare services. You’ll also get a $120 annual dining credit to be used for other delivery services like Grubhub, Seamless, and Boxed. That’s $240 just in food delivery rewards.
Finally, other travel perks this card offers include rental car insurance, baggage insurance plan, no foreign transaction fees, and more
Pros
- Tailored rewards for wedding-related expenses, including dining and groceries.
- Valuable annual credits that can offset a significant portion of the annual fee.
- Transferable Membership Rewards® points for versatile redemption options.
- No foreign transaction fees, ideal for international travel.
Cons
- High annual fee, potentially offset by rewards and credits for those who maximize benefits.
- Rewards structure may not be as advantageous for individuals who do not spend significantly on dining and groceries.
Best for bad credit - Capital One Quicksilver Secured
Why we like it:
- From venue bookings to floral arrangements, the expenses of a wedding can add up quickly. The Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card provides a financially savvy solution. Its absence of annual fees allows you to allocate more resources towards crafting the perfect wedding day.
- Moreover, the rewards program ensures that every expenditure contributes to your wedding fund. Earning cash back on essentials like catering and accommodations is a practical way to alleviate some of the financial stress that often accompanies wedding planning.
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Why we like it:
- From venue bookings to floral arrangements, the expenses of a wedding can add up quickly. The Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card provides a financially savvy solution. Its absence of annual fees allows you to allocate more resources towards crafting the perfect wedding day.
- Moreover, the rewards program ensures that every expenditure contributes to your wedding fund. Earning cash back on essentials like catering and accommodations is a practical way to alleviate some of the financial stress that often accompanies wedding planning.
- A $200 refundable deposit sets your initial credit line, a small cost for wedding budget help.
- Responsible use reports payments to major credit bureaus, building or rebuilding credit.
- Use CreditWise, Capital One's free tool, for credit progress tracking.
- Responsible use unlocks an upgrade to an unsecured Quicksilver card with your deposit returned.
- Automatic credit line reviews after six months can boost your credit score.
If you and/or your future spouse have below-average credit and can’t qualify for one of the other credit cards on our list, you might consider a secured credit card. With a secured card, you pay a deposit, which serves as collateral on the card. Then you can use the card as you would any other, and it slowly but surely builds your credit card. And eventually, you can upgrade to a non-secured card.
Most secured credit cards don’t offer any rewards to the cardholder. But the Capital One Quicksilver Secured stands out by offering spending on all of your purchases. You’ll get 1.5% cash back on every purchase, which can really add up over the course of a year, especially when you’re paying for a wedding.
Pros
- No annual fee, allowing you to allocate more resources towards your dream wedding.
- Rewards program that translates everyday expenses into valuable cash back.
- Potential for a credit limit increase, aiding in credit score improvement.
- Opportunity to upgrade to an unsecured card with responsible use.
Cons
- Relatively high variable APR, emphasizing the importance of paying balances in full to avoid interest charges.
- Limited initial credit line, determined by the security deposit.
Should You Use a Credit Card to Pay For Your Wedding?
You might be wondering whether it’s really a good idea to use a credit card to pay for your wedding. After all, do you really want to start your new life together off in debt?
It’s true that you don’t want to start your marriage in credit card debt, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use a credit card. Instead, you can put all of your wedding purchases on a credit card and then pay it off each month (or before the card’s introductory APR ends). Not only is it easier to keep track of your purchases and take advantage of purchase protection, but you can also earn hundreds — if not thousands — of dollars in credit card rewards.
There are some serious downsides to carrying a balance on your wedding credit card instead of paying it off right away. First, you’ll be charged interest, which can really add up with an expensive event like a wedding. And unfortunately, that interest will likely exceed whatever rewards the card offers.
Don’t necessarily believe the negative hype you’ve heard around credit cards. If you use them responsibly, they can absolutely be worth it and you can avoid going into debt.
How to Choose the Best Credit Card for Wedding Expenses?
At this point you’re probably wondering how you can choose between the credit cards we listed above (along with the many other credit cards on the market). We’ve rounded up a few tips to help you choose the best card.
1. Check your credit score
Each card has a minimum credit score requirement, and it’s really not worth applying to a card if you don’t meet the requirements. Not only are you likely to have your application denied, but it will also show up on your credit report as a hard inquiry, which can lower your credit score.
Before applying to any credit cards, run your credit score with a tool like Credit Karma. You can see what your credit score currently is and get a better idea of which cards you’ll qualify for. And most credit score tools even recommend specific cards based on your credit history.
2. Pay attention to the sign-up bonus
The signup bonus is one of the biggest perks most card offers. In fact, many travel hackers open cards just to take advantage of the signup bonuses. They can often equal hundreds — or even thousands — of dollars in perks. Cards regularly change their signup bonuses, to be sure to read up on the best current signup bonuses to take advantage of those offers.
3. Look at where you’re spending the most
Weddings are expensive across the board, but not every couple spends their money in the same places. Some might spend a lot of money on the venue and music, while others really invest in the food and drinks.
Different credit cards offer higher rewards in certain categories. For example, if you’re going to be spending the bulk of your budget on food, it may be worth it to sign up for a card that offers higher spending rewards on food.
4. Consider your post-wedding life
Chances are that you aren’t going to open a credit card just for your wedding and then close it immediately after. Instead, it’s worth looking for a card that also works for your post-wedding life. Consider what benefits you want in a card. Do you want cash back so you can save for a big purchase? Or would you rather have travel rewards to take a big annual vacation?
Also, just like with the wedding expenses, look at what areas of your life you spend the most money. You can then find a credit card that offers higher rewards in those categories.
Finally, be cautious about signing up for a card with a high annual fee because it has attractive perks for your wedding. While the $695 annual fee of the American Express Platinum might seem worth it the year you get married, it may not be worth it in future years unless you take advantage of most of the benefits. And you might even forget about the fee and have some sticker shock a year later when it’s automatically charged to your card.
The Bottom Line
Having the right credit card in your wallet while you’re wedding planning can help you to earn hundreds or thousands of dollars between the signup bonuses and spending rewards. Chances are you’ll be spending a lot of money during that time — often tens of thousands of dollars. It’s worth taking advantage of that opportunity to earn some serious credit card perks. While there are many rewards credit cards to choose from, the list above can serve as an excellent starting point.
