Hidden Costs: The Expensive Underbelly of Wedding Venues
When it comes to turn key weddings, nothing beats the ease of traditional wedding venues. Organized, established, and oh so familiar with the typical wedding spiel, they come at weddings with a tasteful eye and really, really ridiculously expert skill. That being said, as with all good things, there are often a few catches - and that’s why we’re here: to help decipher the sometimes hidden costs so often associated with all-star wedding venues.
You might have to pay for security.
While most venues are set up for exclusive events, there is the matter of keeping them exclusive. While it’s definitely fun to play VIP for the day, don’t forget that this form of protection also comes with quite the added cost.
2. The basic package rates only typically come with the basic furnishings
Don’t get us wrong, we absolutely love minimalism, but just be sure that the package you get actually comes with exactly what you want.
3. There will always be up-sells.
While the staff at the venue are absolutely going to help you, don’t be surprised if they try to talk you into upgrading a few different aspects as well. Whether it’s the menus, flowers, decor, or suite, there’s always going to be tiers to everything, and they’re always going to try to sell you the best.
4. You might have to pay to hire outside of their preferred vendor list.
Sometimes in an effort to support their local vendors venues will sneak in a cost that they apply if you choose to bring in an external one. Think of it like a corkage fee, but for professionals off the menu.
5. Any deposits are typically nonrefundable.
If a venue saves the date for you it means they’re likely going to have to turn down others who request it moving forward - so don’t be surprised if they charge you a non-refundable deposit.
6. While there’s often a much lower booking cost, there’s a good chance there’s a minimum spend
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A minimum spend is a total amount that must be spent on the night of the event. It’s how venues are able to offer affordable “booking rates” while still ensuring that they’ll be adequately compensated in the end. These minimum spends are often higher on days that are in demand (think a Summer Saturday), and lower on dates that verge on their slow season (like a mid-week winter wedding).
7. There might be multiple weddings happening at once.
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While there’s absolutely nothing wrong with having two (or sometimes even three) weddings take place on the same day, some brides prefer to be the OBP (Only Bride on Premises).
8. You’re not going to be their top priority.
Wedding venues specialize in hosting weddings, which means they’ll likely be planning a few throughout the time you’re working with them. Don’t worry though, they’ll likely be great at juggling, it’s just important to realize that you might have to wait your turn for assistance in some cases.
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