Hidden Wedding Venue Costs that Can Destroy Your Wedding Budget!
BY Apoorva | 27 Jun, 2017 | 2110 views | 3 min read
Your wedding venues are one of the most expensive expenses in your budget list (Even the experts say that, check out more on that here) . Before you get your heart set on a venue, fall in love with it, make sure that you have taken all these costs in consideration. We hate when your heart breaks!
Early Access To Your Venue
Do you plan to get ready at the venue with your girl squad or your vendors need 2-3 extra hours for the set up? Don’t assume that the venue will have included that in the contract. Infact popular venues have back to back functions in the peak wedding season so make sure you know what the charges are for early access!
Permits
Did you know that if you have to host a sangeet you need a police permit, DJ permit, music permit and also a fire brigade permit? Venues usually can get this done for you but this is over and above your rental+per plate cost. So factor that in!
Overtime Fees
Yes, we know how we crave for just one more hour of dancing after a few cocktails! But that might cost you. Most venues will allow a free half an hour but post that they will start charging you. Same goes for your DJ, wedding photographer and videographer! So be careful before asking for that extra hour.
Restrooms
Who knew right you would have to pay to pee? If you have an outdoor event which has no adjoining building or venue, you will have to arrange for portable restrooms. And since it’s your wedding, you probably want something nicer like luxury portable restrooms rather than basic porta potties, so that’ll be a little more than extra. The venue guys won’t provide it.
Generator Cost
You don’t want a black out when your sangeet performance is on right? That’s why its handy to have a generator as not all venues have the capacity to take the heavy load. But that comes with the extra price tag, so keep that in consideration.
Taxes
Even though these aren't exactly hidden—we all know there are taxes on almost everything, but most vendors don’t display the tax inclusive prices when you inquire unless you ask specifically. So if you’ve decided on a venue by just asking someone or looking at the online price – keep in mind that taxes will be addition.
Corkage Fees
Want to pop that exclusive bottle of champagne at your sangeet? If the venue is not providing it, it’s going to charge you a corkage fee per bottle. Make sure that you have that mentioned in your contract explicitly on number of bottles you plan to get it. Usually the cost ranges from Rs 200-Rs 800 per bottle.
Non-Panel Vendors
A lot of venues have caterers and decorators on their panel which you have to select from. Incase you don’t do that, you may have to pay an extra fee to the venue for getting your own vendor over and above your vendor charges.
Live Stations
Have an uber cute Italian live station in mind with a wood-fire pizza and fresh fettuccine? That might cost you. Live stations usually require a gas connection which requires a fire permit and even an additional charge to the venue for providing that gas line. So plan your menu accordingly!
Click here to find a list of banquet halls that are a great steal deal and also don't hurt your pocket.