Venue Contract, Is This Right?
I just received the contract for the venue we want to hold our wedding and reception at, but there are several things on it that have me concerned.
1. For a damage deposit they want a black credit card slip signed.
2. They want the rental fees upfront as well as a $100 deposit for the resteraunt.
3. If we go over the confirmed amount of guest they will charged us $50 per guest over
4. They want two credit references.
5. A cleaning fee of $75
6. If the wedding/reception is cancelled, it`s 100% non ref.
What`s your opinion? Does this sound normal to you?
Posted by suzanne; updated 10/13/03
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This sounds like a scam to me. I think it is "normal" for a deposit by the place of 1/2 of the fees. The rest is paid for by/on the wedding date. NEVER SIGN A BLANK CREDIT CARD SLIP!!!!!!!!!! i believe that the deposit is usually non refundable for the caterer (in case they bought the food already), however, for a venue, i`m not quite sure. I would look at other venues, it sounds to me like they are trying to scam you.
Posted by Sarah; updated 10/13/03
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Numbers 1 & 5 are not normal. A cleaning fee? Gimme a break. And never, ever, ever sign a blank credit card slip! That is unheard of, unprofessional and DANGEROUS!
The credit references is kind of odd, but it doesn`t sound like such a big deal. The rest sounds pretty normal. But personally, I would look elsewhere. That blank credit card slip should send up red flags to you all over the place.
Posted by Linda; updated 10/13/03
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I agree, throw that blank credit card slip in their face and run! Every venue I`ve checked out just wants a deposit to hold the date, the rest payable as soon as you give your final head count. Find a reputable, honest, ethical place to have your reception. You don`t need an extra stress of wondering what "damages" are going to get charged to your card while you`re on your honeymoon!
Posted by ann; updated 10/13/03
