Best Credit Cards for Wedding Expenses

My husband and I asked our friend Bob to officiate our destination wedding in Italy. In his speech, he said, “Most of you probably got here on points or miles or using a credit card that Nicole either set up for you or recommended you to get”.

It’s no secret that travel hacking is my jam.

(Do people still say “my jam”? I swear I’m not that old.)

Weddings can rack up many expenses, and if you’re going to be paying for them, you may as well use a credit card that will get you some points and miles so that you can travel in the future!

Couples are starting to plan their weddings and with that comes the need for a wedding budget. One of the most important things to include in your wedding budget is how you will be paying for it. The average cost of a wedding was $33,900 in 2019, according to an annual survey by The Knot.

There are many ways that couples can pay for their wedding, but one option is by using credit cards. Many wedding vendors, from venues to wedding dress designers, accept credit cards as a form of payment. Couples should match a credit card to their regular spending instead of changing their spending habits for a specific card. Choosing the right credit card should be one of the first discussions couples have with their future spouse when planning their wedding. Using credit cards can also help couples start having important financial conversations and build their credit history together.

Steps to pick a credit card for your wedding expenses

TL;DR:  If you’re flying out from Boston, which many of my couples are, I really like the Chase United Mileage Plus and Chase Sapphire Reserve.

1. First, identify how you will be spending your points, whether on flights or hotels.
2. If you chose flights, figure out a few locations that you’d like to fly to.
3. Then, do some research as to which airlines can fly you there (Ie: Flying from Boston to Ireland via United Airlines)
4. Lastly, select a card that will gain you points on the airline that you wish to fly.

When choosing the best credit cards for wedding expenses, it’s important to review the card details and card features to ensure the card matches your needs. Making payments with a new card can help you reach welcome offers and sign-up bonus thresholds. Couples should try to align card sign-up bonus thresholds with big-ticket payments, such as venue deposits, to maximize rewards.

Why do you like Chase cards for flying out of Boston:

The Chase United Mileage Plus and the Chase Sapphire Reserve are my two favorite credit cards, especially if you are flying out from Boston.

Chase Airline Partners:

This means that through chase, you can earn points to redeem flights on: Aer Lingus, Air Canada, British Airways, Emirates, Flying Blue (loyalty program of Air France and KLM), Iberia, JetBlue, Singapore Airlines, Southwest, United Airlines, and Virgin Atlantic.

I fly Aer Lingus, Air France, and KLM to Europe (Ireland, UK, Italy, France)

I fly United and Singapore Airlines to Asia (Hong Kong, Tokyo, Taipei)

I fly JetBlue for most domestic flights, because I like their snacks.

I know a lot of my friends also really like Southwest.

Chase Hotel Partners:

This means that through Chase, you can earn points to redeem stays at Hyatt, IHG, and Marriott. Booking hotels direct or choosing prepaid hotels through partner platforms can help you maximize rewards and access exclusive benefits. Chase cards often offer higher reward rates for prepaid hotels booked through their travel portal.

I typically do not stay at hotels because I like airbnbs and VRBOs, but in a pinch, there’s pretty much a Hyatt or a Marriott anywhere.

Chase Ultimate Rewards points can be accumulated through these spending categories and redeemed for travel or other valuable benefits. Please note that offers vary depending on timing and eligibility, so check current promotions before applying.

Why do I need a credit card for my wedding?

First off, I do not think any couple should go into debt for a wedding.

I do believe in paying off credit cards each month, or as quickly as humanly possible because of high APR. 

However, if you’re going to be making big purchases, you may as well get some points out of it!

You’re getting married—congratulations! You might be feeling excited, or anxious. One thing that can help ease the tension is to have a clear idea of how much your wedding will cost before you start planning it.

In 2019, the average Boston wedding budget for our couples is between $65,000-$150,000. Keep this in mind when setting budget guidelines with your partner and family members!

What are the benefits of using a credit card for your wedding expenses?

0% Annual Percentage Rate (APR)

If you’re looking for a new credit card that offers long periods of 0% introductory APR, look no further. Cards available right now offer lengthy 0% APR periods, so it’s easier to pay off your balance over time without incurring any interest charges. This is especially helpful when couples need some extra help with their budgeting!

Miles & Points bonuses

With a honeymoon  right around the corner, many couples use the points and miles they accrue from their wedding expenses to travel hack their way into fancy hotels and upgraded flights!  One way you can do this is by getting a credit card with sign-up bonuses before your big day. These cards typically offer cash or points as an incentive for spending more than a certain amount in a specific time frame.  

Loans

I never promote couples going into debt for their wedding, but for some, it’s their preference. It is important to understand what options you have when it comes to obtaining a loan. Banks may offer personal loans but sometimes lenders will not provide small amounts, which can make things difficult for those in need of financial help with their wedding. Credit cards are another option that lets people borrow an instant amount without having to request the specific dollar amount they would like from banks and similar lending institutions. Credit cards allow for more flexibility on how much money you want through customization instead of committing to the loan at once.

Understanding Credit Card Terms

When it comes to using credit cards for wedding expenses, understanding the fine print can make a world of difference in how much you save—and how many rewards you earn. With so many options available, it’s important to know exactly what you’re signing up for, especially as you navigate the wedding planning process.

Rewards rates are one of the first things to look at. Many of the best credit cards for wedding expenses offer bonus points or cash back for specific categories. For example, the Chase Sapphire Reserve gives you 3 points per dollar spent on dining worldwide, which is perfect for rehearsal dinners, bachelor or bachelorette parties, or even catering deposits. Cards like the American Express Gold Card offer 4x points at U.S. grocery stores, making it a great choice if you’re stocking up for DIY wedding events or family gatherings. Always check which purchases are considered eligible purchases to maximize your rewards.

Annual fees and welcome bonuses are also key factors. While some cards have higher annual fees, they often come with valuable perks like travel credits, airport lounge access, or statement credits for other eligible purchases. For instance, the Platinum Card from American Express offers a $200 airline fee credit and Uber Cash, which can be a huge help for destination wedding travel or honeymoon transportation. Many cards also offer a sign up bonus or welcome bonus—such as earning 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first three months after account opening. Planning your wedding-related purchases to meet these requirements can help you earn rewards quickly and offset wedding costs.

Don’t forget about foreign transaction fees. If you’re planning a destination wedding or honeymoon abroad, using a card with no foreign transaction fees—like the Capital One Venture Rewards Card—can save you from unnecessary additional fees on every international purchase. This is especially important when paying international wedding vendors or booking hotels and car rentals overseas.

It’s also essential to check whether your wedding vendors accept credit cards as a payment method, and if they charge any additional fees for credit card payments. Some vendors may add a surcharge, which could eat into your potential rewards. Always ask about payment terms in advance so you can make the most of your credit card rewards without unexpected costs.

Finally, always read the fine print. Understanding the details of rewards programs, eligible purchases, and any restrictions on bonus points or travel rewards will help you avoid surprises. By choosing the right cards for wedding expenses, you can earn rewards, save money, and even enjoy perks like airport lounge access or room upgrades on your honeymoon.

In short, being savvy about credit card terms—like rewards rates, annual fees, foreign transaction fees, and vendor acceptance—can turn your wedding expenses into free money, travel perks, and unforgettable experiences. With a little planning, your wedding budget can work harder for you, making every dollar spent on your big day even more rewarding.

My favorite 4 Credit Cards for Wedding Expenses 

Chase United Mileage Plus 

This is my #1 card I recommend to beginners because it’s $0 for the first year, and then $95 per year after.

The Citi Strata Premier® Card is also worth considering, as it offers 10 points per dollar spent on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on CitiTravel.com. The Chase Freedom Unlimited® provides 1.5% cash back on all purchases, making it a strong cash rewards credit card for wedding expenses. Additionally, the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card offers 3% cash back on dining and entertainment, which is ideal for wedding vendors.

It’s a great gateway drug because it’s low-cost, easy to digest and you get a whole ton of perks with it, especially if you fly United often.

I really like flying United to Europe and Asia from Boston, and most of the US as well.

I know right now (May 2021), there’s a 65,000 rewards points bonus after you spend $4,000 within 3 months.

Why I love the Chase United Mileage Plus:

• 2X miles on United purchases
• 2X miles on dining – Including eligible delivery services
• 2X miles on hotel stays when booked with the hotel
• 1X mile on all other purchases
• United ClubSM access with 2 United Club one-time passes per year. This is so great, because you can lounge and eat snacks while you wait for your flight. I’ve taken many people to lounges, and many had no idea that there was this awesome relaxing oasis within airports!
• United perks when you’re on the plane – Relax in comfort while waiting for your flight with complimentary beverages, snacks, high-speed Wi-Fi and more. You also get 25% back on United inflight purchases
• More United perks: Free first checked bag – For you and a companion, save up to $140 per roundtrip.
• Priority boarding
• Up to $100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® fee credit**
• No foreign transaction fees – Really ideal when you use this credit card while traveling

Click here to apply for the Chase United Mileage Plus credit card

Chase Sapphire Reserve Card 

It’s my most expensive yearly fee card at $550.

However, it’s not really $550  because there’s a $300 annual travel credit (gas stations, Ubers, Lyft, lodging, etc.), so it’s actually $250.

In comparison to other fee cards in this price range, this Chase Sapphire Reserve is top notch. The Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers 3 points per dollar on dining worldwide and 4 points per dollar on flights and hotels booked direct, making it especially valuable for travel and wedding-related expenses. The Chase Sapphire Preferred card is also a strong option, earning three points per dollar on dining and two points per dollar on travel.

(Actually, the only other one with a yearly fee this high is the American Express Platinum)

I like recommending it when they offer 60,000 bonus points (or more). They often run 80,000 or if you’re lucky, 100,000 point bonuses.

Usually the above requires “$x,000 on purchases in the first x months from account opening”, so I time it when I need to make a big purchase.

Why I love the Chase Sapphire Reserve:

• 3x points on dining at restaurants worldwide – including eligible delivery services, takeout and dining out.**
• 3x points on travel worldwide – immediately after earning your $300 annual travel credit
• Complimentary Priority Pass at 1,000+ airport lounges. I use this quite often too!
• DashPass subscription and $60 statement credit – I prefer to order my delivery directly from restaurants because Dashpass and Uber Eats take such a big percentage from restaurants, but in a pinch, this is very useful.
• Earn $120 back on a peloton membership including full access to their workout library in the Peloton app.
• Lyft – 10x points on Lyft Rides through March 2022 and a year of Lyft Pink – I use this very often!
• The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card comes with free personal concierge that helps you plan the big day. From flowers to venue bookings, they’re a helpful resource for some of your legwork during the planning stage.

Click here to apply for the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card

American Express Gold Card

This is a great card to use for dining or stocking up on groceries, and as an Amex card, it comes with valuable rewards and travel benefits.

When planning your wedding, this card can help you accrue large amounts of bonus points when booking restaurants and catering services. With 4x the points for every dollar spent at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery, you will be able to eat out with a ton of rewards every time. Choosing credit cards that categorize vendors’ payments correctly can help maximize bonus points, such as the Amex Gold Card offering 4x points at restaurants.

Not to mention that the same bonus applies to U.S. supermarkets and Uber Eats too! Plus, with the Amex Uber Cash benefit, cardholders can receive Uber-related credits when using their Amex card for Uber or Uber Eats transactions, helping you save on ride or food delivery costs. If you’re considering travel for your honeymoon, the American Express Platinum Card® may offer welcome bonuses up to 175,000 points, which can be especially beneficial for covering honeymoon expenses.

Why I love the American Express Gold 

• 4x points on Restaurants worldwide and Uber Eats purchases
• 4x points on purchases in US Supermarkets
• 2x points when you book travels directly through the airline’s website or through the Amex travel site.
• Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® if you spend $4000 within the first six months
• $10 monthly statement credit if you use the Amex Gold Card for meals at The Cheesecake Factory, Seamless, Grubhub, Boxed, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Boxed, and participating Shake Shack locations. 
• Access to American Express transfer partners and the American Express Hotel Collection.

Click here to apply for the American Express Gold 

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card 

Among the best credit cards for wedding expenses is the Capital One Venture Rewards Card. This is the perfect card for those who want to earn travel rewards. If you’re getting married, why not turn your honeymoon into a free trip to Rome? All it takes is one swipe of this credit card!

You can earn double the miles without having to worry about spending on the right category of expenses. Place all wedding expenses on the card and use the miles to redeem for cruises, airline flights, car rentals, hotels, and more! As an added bonus, the card doesn’t charge you an annual fee for a year after opening your account.

Why I love the Capital One Venture Rewards

• 0% APR for the first 15 months on balance transfers and purchases.
• 2X unlimited miles on every purchase.
• Redeem your miles at travel-from vacation or car rentals.
• Transfer your miles to over 10 travel loyalty programs.
• Earn 100,000 bonus miles when you spend $20,000 on purchases in the first year of opening the account.
  • You can still earn half the amount in bonus miles if you spend $3,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of opening the account. 
  • Miles that you earn do not expire during the life of the account.

Click here to apply for the Capital One Venture Rewards 

Cons of Using a Credit Card for Wedding Expenses

Higher Interest Rates (if you don’t pay it off at the end of each month)

As mentioned, I never advise anyone to go into debt for their wedding! 

When I was younger, I was always taught to pay off credit cards each month, like a charge card! 

High rates can be daunting. If you don’t snag a 0% intro APR offer, the interest will shoot up if you wait to pay off your expenses immediately after purchase and you can go into serious debt. It’s important to be careful and practice self-control when using credit cards, as it can be very difficult to get out of credit card debt if you are not responsible.

Hurting Your Credit Score

Hard bounces, when opening several credit cards at once, can bring your credit score down. Which, in turn may affect you if you’re looking to purchase a home in the near future!

Charging a large amount on your credit cards typically increases your credit utilization ratio, hurting your credit score. Sustaining a balance every month is the same. If you are looking to buy a house shortly after getting married, you may want to consider if lowering your credit score will be worth it.

I hope you found this blog post helpful and informative. Let me know if there are any questions by sending me an email. In addition, feel free to let us know what credit card you’re using for your wedding expenses or share with us some of your favorite tips. Our team is here and happy to help you find a way to make sure your big day goes off without a hitch!

Interested in learning more about how you can better plan your wedding? See our blog for more useful tricks just like this!