Hidden Event Facility Fees
You think you’ve found the perfect venue for your event until the big day arrives and you discover a number of budget-busting hidden event facility fees. Prevent unpleasant surprises by asking about the following potential additional charges before signing an event facility contract.
Room charge
If your venue is a hotel or banquet hall, the facility’s per-plate charge generally doesn’t include the banquet room charge. They may also charge for extras such as the use of electronic equipment like projection screens, PA systems and even the dance floor. Also keep in mind that there may be a fee for bringing your own equipment into the room.
Service fee
The cost of service from attendants such as waiters and bartenders is usually 18 to 20 percent of the total bill. It pays to ask ahead of time so that you can budget for this. Some facilities also tax the service fee.
Cake-cutting fee
It may seem like a minor task, but facilities often charge to cut your cake. You might consider saving the fee by asking a friend or family member to do the honors.
Food and beverage minimum
They don’t always bring this up initially, but many facilities have a minimum food and beverage requirement and will charge extra if the numbers aren’t met. Knowing this ahead of time helps you plan your guest list.
Labor charges
Table and dance floor setups, special decorating and cleanup all require personnel to complete these tasks, and the labor costs you more. If you have an especially labor-intensive chore to do in order to prepare for the event, the task is likely to add a substantial fee to your final bill. Ask for a complete list of the proposed costs of various planned tasks so you can make wise budget decisions.
Power
With the high price of energy, some facilities, such as hotel meeting rooms, charge extra for the use of electricity. Ask if there is a charge for electrical outlets.
Event liability insurance
Some facilities require that you purchase event liability insurance for your event. This insurance protects you and the facility if an accident occurs that harms a guest or the property.
State tax
Most states require that a facility charge a state tax on top of your bill. Inquire about your state tax rate and determine what items are taxed so that you can get a good idea of what the tax will cost you.
Ensure that your next event runs smoothly and you stay within budget by inquiring about these hidden event facility fees before comitting to a venue.
