Wedding planning is an exhilarating—and expensive—journey.
As the bills for deposits, catering, and flowers start to pile up, it’s easy to feel like you’re just bleeding money.
But what if those expenses weren’t just costs, but an investment? What if your wedding could earn you a nearly free honeymoon?
With a smart, well-timed credit card strategy, you can turn your wedding’s massive expenses into a bank of points large enough to cover flights, hotels, or even a luxury experience for your honeymoon.
This guide will show you how to do it responsibly, making every dollar count toward your future together.
The “Honeymoon Strategy” Framework
This isn’t about spending more than you can afford. This is a plan to maximize the spending you’re already going to do.
Step 1: Play in “Two-Player Mode” to Maximize Welcome Bonuses
The first step is to supercharge your earning potential by working as a team. Most of a couple’s wedding expenses will happen within a 3- to 6-month period, which is the perfect window to meet the spending requirements for multiple large welcome bonuses.
Instead of one of you applying for a single card, you can each apply for a new travel card. This allows you to combine your spending and effectively double your bonus-earning power. Some top-tier cards with generous bonuses that are ideal for this strategy include the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card.
Maya’s Insight: “My husband and I did this when we renovated our first home. We strategically timed our applications to get two big welcome bonuses, and we had enough points to book a week in Italy. It completely changed our view of what our everyday spending could achieve.”
Step 2: Know Your Spending Categories
Not all cards are created equal. You need to use the right card for the right type of expense. Many wedding expenses fall into specific bonus categories, and using a flat-rate card for everything would be a mistake.
- Dining & Catering: Use a card that offers a bonus on dining, as many caterers will code under this category. The American Express® Gold Card is a classic choice, offering a high rewards rate on restaurant spending.
- Venue & Hotels: If your venue is a hotel or is paid through an online travel agency, you can use a card that rewards travel spending. This also applies to room blocks for your guests.
- Everything Else: For all the miscellaneous costs that don’t fit into a specific category—like a wedding planner, photographer, or florist—use a card that earns a flat, high rate on all purchases, like the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card (which earns a flat 2X miles on every purchase).
Step 3: Pay for Everything Possible with a Credit Card
You might be surprised by how many wedding expenses can be paid for with a credit card. Don’t assume a vendor won’t accept one. From your venue deposit to your cake baker, always ask if you can pay with plastic.
Some vendors may charge a credit card processing fee (usually 2-3%). You’ll need to do a quick calculation to see if it’s worth it. For example, if a 3% fee on a $5,000 bill is $150, but you’re earning a bonus worth over $1,000, paying the fee is a no-brainer.
Benefits & Risks: A Balanced Look
This is a powerful strategy, but it’s only for those who are financially disciplined.
Benefits
- Massive Welcome Bonuses: You can earn hundreds of thousands of points that would take years to accumulate otherwise.
- Points for the Honeymoon: These points can be transferred to airline and hotel partners for premium-cabin flights or luxury hotel stays.
- Purchase Protection: Many credit cards offer built-in purchase protections and extended warranties, which can be invaluable for large purchases like a wedding dress or rings.
Risks
- The Debt Trap: The single biggest risk is overspending. This strategy only works if you can pay off your balances in full, every single month. Never carry a balance just to earn points. The interest you’d pay will quickly erase the value of any rewards you earn.
- Too Many New Cards: Opening multiple new accounts in a short period can temporarily lower your credit score. This is a strategic choice, but if you plan to apply for a mortgage or another large loan in the near future, you should consider waiting.
Your wedding is a celebration of your love, but it’s also a financial milestone. By approaching your spending with a strategic mindset, you can get a huge head start on your financial and travel goals.
Think of this as your first major joint project. A little planning now can lead to a beautiful, and affordable, honeymoon you’ll never forget.
Ready to start planning? Explore your credit card options for couples and take the first step toward earning your honeymoon.
WalletAware shares education, not individualized financial advice. Always confirm current terms on the issuer’s site before applying.