Question on venue deposits

shaper78 · August 2011

As we are getting ready to check out reception venues, was just wondering if there is typical amount or percentage that they charge for the first deposit? Or is this something that just varies completely by venue?

cindyn9178 · August 2011

I would assume it varies, just as anything else would. Best thing would be to call each place and ask.

DeanneCW · August 2011

I'll tell you my personal venue price...

$8,000 we put down $2,000

a friend of mine is spening $10,000 and she put down $1,000.

I guess it depends on where you go and their contracts but I am sure you are looking at between 1-2k. Shouldn't be anymore than that unless your venue is over 15k.

NJhousewife22 · August 2011

We put down 10% initially, but I think as Deanne said, it's going to vary widely.

Jojo714 · August 2011

It depends on the venue.
Mine was 20%. 6 months after the contract was signed we have to give another 30% and then the balance is to be paid 6 weeks before.

2 of my best friends are also getting married next year and one had to put 20% down now, and the remainder 6 weeks before... and the other was only required to pay $500, which I believe is alot less than even 10%.

HobokensFury · August 2011

Ours costs about 18k and we had to put down 3k.

cutiepie12702 · August 2011

My friend's venue required $5k and mine only required $1k. It all depends on your venue.

diamondx423 · August 2011

Ours was $2500 when we booked, then another $2000 due 6 months prior, and the remainder the week of.

LADY324 · August 2011

Ours is going to cost about $26,000 and we had to put $5,000 down.

shaper78 · August 2011

Thanks everyone, this is helpful!

gymchick05 · August 2011

We put $5k to reserve the date, another $10k at 6 months out and then the remainder was due 3 days before the wedding when the guest list was finalized

JoBell123 · August 2011

As PP said, it varies by venue. Ours wanted $5k to book and 30% a few months later (was supposed to be 6 months out but for some reason we paid it just before 3 mos out....they hadn't asked for it sooner!). The balance is due 2 weeks prior when we give the headcount.