Tips on keeping your wedding dress safe pre- and post-wedding

While everyone has their own budget for the big day, nobody can deny weddings are an expensive business, with a total average bill hovering around £20,000-£30,000. The dress is likely to account for over £1,000 of this – and could cost much more if it's a designer number.

When asked, 86% of brides-to-be who haven't yet purchased their dress didn't know that it might be protected under their home insurance policy! comparethemarket.com has shared some helpful things to consider ahead of bringing home the special dress.

Ahead of the big day:

• Check your home insurance T&Cs to see whether your home contents insurance covers your wedding dress.
• Pay attention to the value of your dress: Home insurance policies have a limit on the most they'll pay out for one item that's not listed individually. If your dress is worth more than this, you'll need to list it on the policy separately. The limit is usually around £1,000-£1,500, but it does vary from policy to policy so make sure to check yours.
• Think about the day itself: Consider whether you need your dress covered outside of the home for example, at the ceremony or the reception. You'll need to check with your provider to see if your home insurance policy covers this. If not, you'll need to look for specialist insurance.
• Remember, if someone else will be looking after your dress before the wedding, so you can save the surprise for the big day, make sure they'll be covered by their home insurance.

• Generally, insurance providers will make a deduction in value for items of clothing as they're worn and depreciate in value over time. It's worth checking your policy to see what deduction would be made for your dress.
• Let your insurance provider know if you've changed your name after you've tied the knot. It's important that your provider has all of your correct details.