Valentine’s Day sparks rush for wedding insurance

As the most romantic day of the year approaches, new figures from M&S Money show that February is one of the most popular months of the year to buy wedding insurance.

Sales of M&S Wedding Insurance increase in the weeks after Valentine's Day as couples planning their big day make sure they are covered in case the worst happens.

Couples taking out the M&S policy can cover themselves against various nightmare scenarios, including a damaged cake, lost rings or stolen flowers. There are exclusions, for example the policy does not cover cancellation where the bride or groom decides they don't want to get married.

Top three reasons for making a M&S Wedding Insurance claim, 2009:

1. Supplier failure (e.g. photographer goes into liquidation)

2. Cancellation and rearrangement (which also includes redundancy)

3. Damage to or loss of wedding dresses and wedding attire

David Wells, M&S Head of Insurance, said: ‘Considering the cost of an average wedding and the current economic climate, wedding insurance really should be at the top of every bride and groom's list.

‘When buying wedding insurance, it is important to think through all the services planned for the big day and make sure the right amount of cover is in place. Once the cover is in place couples can get on with the preparations for the big day.'

Dave Simms, Personal Lines Manager at Ecclesiastical Insurance, which underwrites M&S Wedding Insurance, said: ‘Supplier failure was the main cause for wedding insurance claims in 2009 and can seriously disrupt a perfectly planned special day. Suppliers struggling in the current economic climate can cause brides and grooms stress and heartache by not being able to deliver contracted services. This often happens at very short notice before the big day.

‘In such circumstances, having proper wedding insurance in place can help you get your wedding back on track and help to ensure you're not left out of pocket because of failed services.  Wedding insurance really should be a top priority for newly engaged couples.'

M&S Wedding Insurance - Key Features

Four levels of Wedding Cover, with prices starting at just £59
No excess should you have to make a claim
Up to £17,500 cancellation cover
Stress counselling included as standard
M&S Cardholders will receive 100 M&S points when they take out a new policy

For more information about M&S Wedding Insurance or to apply, customers can visit marksandspencer.com/weddinginsurance.