Nobody wants to think of the possibility of getting jilted on their wedding day. But, as smart shoppers know, anything can happen … even on your big day. From a sudden cancellation to stolen gifts to a damaged gown, wedding insurance can help protect you against the unforeseen and can also afford you great peace of mind. The Better Business Bureau and the wedding-planning website The Knot recommend investing in wedding insurance before your special day.

“Wedding insurance is a great way to protect yourself from the unforeseen, especially when weddings can be so costly,” said Paula Fleming, spokesperson for the local Better Business Bureau. “Wedding insurance can cover a range of prospective problems such as vendor no-shows, cancellations, inclement weather, military deployment, medical emergencies, travel delays and more, so that you won’t lose money if plans have to change.”

When looking to invest in wedding insurance, take the following tips into consideration:

How much does wedding insurance cost?

A basic insurance policy that covers loss of photos, videos, attire, presents, rings and deposits usually costs between $155 and $550, depending on the amount of coverage you want. General liability insurance, which covers up to $1,000,000 for accidents, costs around $185.

Do you really need wedding insurance?

Before you buy wedding insurance, check with your each of your vendors to see how well they’re covered. Make sure to check that they are a reputable business via their BBB Business Review at www.bbb.org. Your reception site or your caterer may also already have their own insurance, so you wouldn’t want to pay for overlapping coverage out of your own pocket. Make sure to get everything in writing and ask your vendors for a copy of their policies to see where you aren’t fully covered.

When should you get wedding insurance?

The sooner the better. Let’s say you put a deposit on your wedding reception hall 12 months prior to your wedding date, and then it burns to the ground a few weeks before the big day. With wedding insurance, you’ll be sure to get your deposit back. Make sure you know how far in advance you can purchase the insurance; some insurance companies have limitations.

What does wedding insurance cover?

Problems with the site, weather, vendors, key people, sickness or injury are the top concerns come wedding day. There is usually a specified maximum amount that can be claimed under each section, and a deductible also applies. Be sure to find out the details of your insurance plan.

For more tips, visit bbb.org.