Signing contract

tmwagner

We are going to sign the contract for our reception hall next week, any advice on what to ask? TIA!

MyNameIsNot

For the contract, read the whole thing very carefully.  Make sure anything you've discussed and everything they are providing is included in the contract, in writing.  If there's a specific room, if they've told you they'd give you a certain price point on food, bar package options, if they say they'll include tables, chairs, linens, etc, etc.  If there's anything in the contract that you don't understand, ask for it to be clarified.  Don't rely on an oral promise, especially if something contradicts that in writing.

Don't be afraid to ask them (nicely) to change parts or include/exclude things that are different from what you are expecting.  What you get is what is on the paper; this is your chance to guarantee that you get what you want. 

SaraAndrew2010

Be sure to ask if there is a time limit to your reception and if you get charged extra if your reception goes long.  Similarly, if you have an open bar package for a certain length of time, ask how much they will charge to extend it or if they will charge by consumption.

Also ask if they can provide vendor meals for your photographer, DJ/band, etc.  It can save you a lot of money to not have to pay the full price of the fancy reception meal for all the vendors. 

amagwire

-Time limit - extra fees if you go over time
-When can you get there? Esp. if you plan on doing any decorating yourself
-Photography/Videography restrictions
-Breakdown fees at the end of the night
-What's included - tables, chairs, etc.
-Bar/Alcohol policies
-Do they have AV/mic equipment available - if necessary
-Decoration restrictions (for example, I don't like the idea of balloons, but some people do - my venue does not allow them)

-Where will you be making your entrance?

-What's the bathroom situation? See it for yourself!

-Parking policy