I'm Eric Goldstein, a Boca Raton wedding photographer. Many venues and planners ask vendors to carry liability insurance and to show proof before the wedding. Here is what that means and what to ask your photographer.
What a Certificate of Insurance Is
A certificate of insurance, often called a COI, is a one-page document from the insurer showing that a vendor's policy is active. Venues usually want it on file a few weeks before the event. Some ask to be listed on it.
Why Venues Ask for One
Vendors work on the venue's property. If a guest is hurt or something is damaged, the vendor's policy is what responds. A venue that asks every vendor for a certificate is protecting itself and the couple.
What to Ask Your Photographer
- Do you carry liability insurance?
- Can you send a certificate of insurance to my venue, and how quickly?
- Does my venue need to be named on it, and can you add them?
- If you fly a drone, are you FAA Part 107 certified?
Ask your venue what it requires first. Some have a form, a set lead time or a standard wording, and it's easier to get that right once.
My Answer
I carry liability insurance and can send a certificate of insurance to your venue. For drone coverage, I'm an FAA Part 107 certified pilot, and I fly when the venue and weather allow it.
Common Questions
Do wedding photographers need insurance?
Many venues and planners require it, and ask for a certificate of insurance before the wedding. Whether or not your venue asks, it's worth asking your photographer.
What is a certificate of insurance?
A one-page document from the insurer showing a vendor's policy is active. Venues usually want it on file a few weeks before the event, and some ask to be listed on it.
Are you insured?
Yes. I carry liability insurance and can send a certificate of insurance to your venue.
Do you fly a drone at weddings?
Yes, when the venue and weather allow it. I'm an FAA Part 107 certified drone pilot.
Planning a South Florida Wedding?
Send me your date and venue and I'll tell you if I'm free. Get in touch here.
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