Venue & Fair Pricing?

Here for the comments!

For how many guests? Does that include food/alcohol, or is that the site fee only?

Did they give you an itemized list of what was included for this price? Have they asked you how many guests you anticipated or is this a ball-park number? What concerns me is the food, the entertainment, and your cake. You haven't mentioned if that's included. And without the food or drinks, which can easily go in the $10k range, $15k is not really a bargain. This was a real sticking point for us. We went with the venue that gave us the most for our money.

Our reception venue basically told us what their minimum was for booking the room we wanted on a Saturday night which was in the circa $9,500. We are going with a buffet and were are being offered several "layers" of service, so if we don't get the amount of guests we expect we can always upgrade the level of service to meet the minimum.

Also keep in mind your entertainment. You at least need a good DJ if nothing else. A good one knows how to keep the party going and will also act as a MC for your reception. One thing that our DJ has already sniffed out with our reception spot is that we're going to need an extra generator because he was in the area and visited our venue and found that the building's wiring had not been updated in some time. I was quite surprised that he took the extra mile to check out potential problems so early on, but he also came highly recommended from the knot boards.

Make sure everything is in writing, EVERYTHING. Leave nothing to chance.

I found an “all inclusive” wedding venue that I (thought) I absolutely loved. It was gorgeous and seemed like a great deal. After reading the fine print and comparing it to another venue I had in mind, I realized that the non-inclusive venue was actually a better deal. I am able to meet and choose all my own vendors (dj, photographer, florist, Baker etc) instead of being given the ones that come with the venue.

I actually was able to get a better deal due to choosing the vendors I wanted, they were able to help me stick to my budget. Not only that, but I read the fine print and it turns out, if I had more than my estimated total, I would have been charged one and a half times more per plate for 5% or more guests than my estimate. So my advice to you is just make sure you ask questions, you read the fine print and you compare before settling. It may not be too good to be true in your case and if that’s the case then congrats and good luck! I’m sure whatever venue you choose will be perfect! Happy planning!

It depends on how much per person it is and if it includes food and alcohol. How many guests is this number based off? Do they lrovide catering? What exactly is included?

My first thought was that it depends on your location; however, all of the previous posters had very good insight too! Ask for an itemized list of what’s included so there are no surprises later on. And also, if this is for a Monday-Thursday wedding consider if that might be a problem for your guests. My cousin got married on a Thursday a few years back because that Friday was a holiday for her and her husband (both teachers). Some guests had that Friday off too so it wasn’t a problem for them, but others didn’t and would have had to travel for the wedding (meaning taking most of Wednesday off, then Thursday and Friday or not coming to the wedding at all). At the end of the day though if this venue is truly everything that you and your FH want it’s hard to put a price tag on that, just make sure that you do you research and make an informed decision. Good luck!

It’s not “too good to be true” because I have the same thing. My venue is indoor/ outdoor catering, alcohol, cake, service, ceremony space, linens, lighting, place cards, send off food, etc included for 103 pp (before state tax) so for 95 people (ballpark on what we’ll have as we’re inviting 112) it’s coming to 11k. HOWEVER I do agree with PP on here as not all venues are like this. Check the fine print. For example, even my venue says that if you don’t Haverhill min of 8 people sitting at a table, you will get charged for the spare seats. They may not charge service fees, but you have to check about state taxes. Also if they are insured or if you’re going to need liability insurance. If they serve food, is it buffet or seated, what cake options and alcohol options. My place started with 95 pp but we wanted the ceremony there which is another 3 pp and then we’re doing a special send off which was another 5 pp. so you need to see what is incl and what is available but at an extra cost

I agree with pps, it really depends on their definition of all inclusive. Ours includes ceremony space, bridal suite for the WHOLE day (a lot of places would only give us 2 hours before hand) cocktail hour with 3 hot and 3 cold passed horderves, a martini bar, and champagne and strawberries, a separate small meeting room (we are going to set the 3 kids up with a babysitter in there), separate facilities for each of the 2 ballrooms, chairs, tables, linens, catering, cake, cake cutting, 6 1/2 hour premium open bar, late night snack, centerpieces, DOC, set up & clean up, they will hold our decorations for 48 hours so we don't have to worry about packing everything up that night, and I feel like I am still missing something....

Anyway, for the larger room it is a minimum of 18k for a Saturday night (I think the smaller room was 15K). We are inviting 200 people so if we are on the high end of yes's the small room would have been tight.

We have an all inclusive venue that’s base fee was less than that but we upgraded a few things so we’re around 16,000 for 100 guests.

as others have, with all-inclusive it’s really important you get line items of what’s included (and make sure it's attached to you contract). I would also press them on the service fee (that does seem to-good to be true). The service fee in our contract is not got cake cutting etc but rather a pre-set gratuity

View Quoted Comment I originally planned on inviting 100 somethin' guests but seeing as our wedding is technically considered a destination wedding (five hours away from our home), I think our list will get cut considerably. But, realistically, if they really want to be apart of our special day...they'll come. I'm even taking on researching nearby cottages and cabins they could stay in for that weekend, because five hours is a lengthy drive and no one will wish to drive back home after partying late. It's not site fee! Let me see here, they offer a rehearsal day that runs for an hour and fifteen minutes, a cottage for the bride and a cabin for the groom, ceremony/reception area that they'll put together with their own tables, chairs, linens, decor, and silverware. They provide lighting and a drinking area as well (bar service is additional so there'd be a fee for that). There's also a fire ring where we could roast marshmallows or make s'mores as a complimentary treat from this venue, and they'll also be providing blankets for the guests in case they want to get cozy. A smoking area too, which may not be needed because I don't really know anyone who smokes other than my brother. It's ADA accessible, and everyone will enjoy the convenience of their huge parking lot! Aside from that, they have an in-house chef who will be preparing the two course meals plus appetizers and they even offered to take care of our desserts. They gave us three options: to have a wedding cake if so desired, tasty and fancy cupcakes, or a classic pie and ice cream combo. Since neither my fiancé or I actually like cake, we'd probably go for the cupcakes or the pie knowing more guests would actually be interested. Same thing with the complimentary treat, we get one out of three and I chose the s'mores bar because how could I not? It's included in the whole package and wouldn't charge me a penny more. And they already provide a DJ, as well as a on-site coordinator at the rehearsal and wedding day. The only thing that isn't included would be photography and videography, but in their additional add-on section they do offer their own photographers at an extra cost. We also have the liberty to bring in our own vendors, if so desired. But seeing as the venue is five hours from where I live, I'd rather just not have to bother with that. You get what I mean?

View Quoted Comment That's what I was telling my fiancé! My prime concern was that a Thursday just wouldn't work out for some people. If we did settle for a Friday the overall cost would be $20, 200. After all, it's more of a popular wedding date aside from Sat-Sun. As for what they offer? Let me see here, they offer a rehearsal day that runs for an hour and fifteen minutes, a cottage for the bride and a cabin for the groom, ceremony/reception area that they'll put together with their own tables, chairs, linens, decor, and silverware. They provide lighting and a drinking area as well (bar service is additional so there'd be a fee for that). There's also a fire ring where we could roast marshmallows or make s'mores as a complimentary treat from this venue, and they'll also be providing blankets for the guests in case they want to get cozy. A smoking area too, which may not be needed because I don't really know anyone who smokes other than my brother. It's ADA accessible, and everyone will enjoy the convenience of their huge parking lot! Aside from that, they have an in-house chef who will be preparing the meals and they even offered to take care of our desserts. They gave us three options: to have a wedding cake if so desired, tasty and fancy cupcakes, or a classic pie and ice cream combo. Since neither my fiancé or I actually like cake, we'd probably go for the cupcakes or the pie. Same thing with the complimentary treat, we get one of out three and I chose the s'mores bar because how could I not? It's included in the whole package and wouldn't charge me a penny more. And they already provide a DJ, as well as a on-site coordinator at the rehearsal and wedding day. The only thing that isn't included would be photography and videography, but in their additional ad-on section they do offer their own photographers at an extra cost. We also have the liberty to bring in our own vendors, if so decided. But seeing as the venue is five hours from where I live, I'd rather just not have to bother with that. You get what I mean?

Lots of things to consider have already been suggested. Based on your last post, I'd be sure to talk with ALL your VIPs about the day and location. People can love you more than anything, but a weekday wedding just doesn't work for some people -- especially 5 hours away. That's likely to mean they need 3 days for your wedding: one to get there, the wedding, and then the trip home. You can be my best friend in the entire world, but if I can't take that much time off work or away from other commitments (e.g., kids in school, etc.) I won't be able to attend. I might have missed it, but does the venue have a minimum you'll have to pay for regardless of how many attend? If so, realistically, will you hit that if you have a high decline rate? A relative had a wedding on a Friday, 3000 miles from 85% of the guest list, and then was very disappointed (and angry, and, honestly, pretty rude) with people who declined. If you go this route, be sure you're good with the potential outcome. Good luck!

View Quoted Comment That's what I'm thinkin' too. I think before I even send out save-the-date cards, I'll personally call or e-mail everyone with thorough detail about the event and just get ballpark votes to see if they'd be willing to come or not. It'll be easier for when I have to sort out my guest list anyway, and talk numbers with the vendors. I very much so appreciate your feedback! Hopefully everything will go as planned. I'm taking all precautions at this point!

View Quoted Comment I'm roughly inviting 100 and somethin' guests. But seeing as our venue is five hours away from where we live, maybe half of that will be coming unless I discuss it way early on ahead of time. What is included? Let me see here, they offer a rehearsal day that runs for an hour and fifteen minutes, a cottage for the bride and a cabin for the groom, ceremony/reception area that they'll put together with their own tables, chairs, linens, decor, and silverware. They provide lighting and a drinking area as well (bar service is additional so there'd be a fee for that). There's also a fire ring where we could roast marshmallows or make s'mores as a complimentary treat from this venue, and they'll also be providing blankets for the guests in case they want to get cozy. A smoking area too, which may not be needed because I don't really know anyone who smokes other than my brother. It's ADA accessible, and everyone will enjoy the convenience of their huge parking lot! Aside from that, they have an in-house chef who will be preparing the meals and they even offered to take care of our desserts. They gave us three options: to have a wedding cake if so desired, tasty and fancy cupcakes, or a classic pie and ice cream combo. Since neither my fiancé or I actually like cake, we'd probably go for the cupcakes or the pie. Same thing with the complimentary treat, we get one of out three and I chose the s'mores bar because how could I not? It's included in the whole package and wouldn't charge me a penny more. And they already provide a DJ, as well as a on-site coordinator at the rehearsal and wedding day. The only thing that isn't included would be photography and videography, but in their additional ad-on section they do offer their own photographers at an extra cost. We also have the liberty to bring in our own vendors, if so decided. But seeing as the venue is five hours from where we live, I'd rather just not have to bother with that. You get what I mean?

View Quoted Comment I'll have to ask them about that service fee because I was a bit sketch about it myself. I did, however, find that gratuity was not included in the price. So maybe the same thing's happening here with my situation? I'll definitely make sure to make a list of all my questions for the venue but those two being my prime concerns. Thank you so much for your feedback! I really appreciate it. - one desperate, desperate bride-to-be xx.

View Quoted Comment Holy smokes! You got quite the bargain there at your venue, kudos for you! I'm really happy to hear that. If we did ours on the weekend, say Friday, it'd be $20, 200 without gratuity added to the cost. They offer a rehearsal day that runs for an hour and fifteen minutes, a cottage for the bride and a cabin for the groom, ceremony/reception area that they'll put together with their own tables, chairs, linens, decor, and silverware. They provide lighting and a drinking area as well (bar service is additional so there'd be a fee for that). There's also a fire ring where we could roast marshmallows or make s'mores as a complimentary treat from this venue, and they'll also be providing blankets for the guests in case they want to get cozy. A smoking area too, which may not be needed because I don't really know anyone who smokes other than my brother. It's ADA accessible, and everyone will enjoy the convenience of their huge parking lot! Aside from that, they have an in-house chef who will be preparing the meals and they even offered to take care of our desserts. They gave us three options: to have a wedding cake if so desired, tasty and fancy cupcakes, or a classic pie and ice cream combo. Since neither my fiancé or I actually like cake, we'd probably go for the cupcakes or the pie. Same thing with the complimentary treat, we get one of out three and I chose the s'mores bar because how could I not? It's included in the whole package and wouldn't charge me a penny more. And they already provide a DJ, as well as a on-site coordinator at the rehearsal and wedding day. The only thing that isn't included would be photography and videography, but in their additional ad-on section they do offer their own photographers at an extra cost. We also have the liberty to bring in our own vendors, if so decided. But seeing as the venue is five hours from where I live, I'd rather just not have to bother with that. You get what I mean?

View Quoted Comment They did give me an itemized list that contributes to the price, yes! It's for up to 120 attendees but I only need 105. At this rate, since our wedding venue is technically a destination wedding (five hours away from home), I think that list will cut in half unless I reach out to everyone invited ahead of time and give them elaborate detail on the event for that weekend. As for what's included? Let me see here, they offer a rehearsal day that runs for an hour and fifteen minutes, a cottage for the bride and a cabin for the groom, ceremony/reception area that they'll put together with their own tables, chairs, linens, decor, and silverware. They provide lighting and a drinking area as well (bar service is additional so there'd be a fee for that). There's also a fire ring where we could roast marshmallows or make s'mores as a complimentary treat from this venue, and they'll also be providing blankets for the guests in case they want to get cozy. A smoking area too, which may not be needed because I don't really know anyone who smokes other than my brother. It's ADA accessible, and everyone will enjoy the convenience of their huge parking lot! Aside from that, they have an in-house chef who will be preparing the meals and they even offered to take care of our desserts. They gave us three options: to have a wedding cake if so desired, tasty and fancy cupcakes, or a classic pie and ice cream combo. Since neither my fiancé or I actually like cake, we'd probably go for the cupcakes or the pie. Same thing with the complimentary treat, we get one of out three and I chose the s'mores bar because how could I not? It's included in the whole package and wouldn't charge me a penny more. And they already provide a DJ, as well as a on-site coordinator at the rehearsal and wedding day. The only thing that isn't included would be photography and videography, but in their additional ad-on section they do offer their own photographers at an extra cost. We also have the liberty to bring in our own vendors, if so decided. But seeing as the venue is five hours from where I live, I'd rather just not have to bother with that. You get what I mean?

View Quoted Comment That's so amazing, Maggie! I am so thrilled for you and your hubby-to-be. And yes, I will not make the rookie mistake of not looking at the fine print! Seeing as we're having a destination wedding (five hours away from home), I had to rationalize my guest list quite a bit. We are allowed to invite up to 120 guests, but realistically we're looking at more of 105 attendees. I just need to get in touch with everyone who's invited, before even sending out save-the-date cards, and go into elaborate detail about the event for that weekend. Just to get ballpark votes on who'd come, you know? I think having it on Friday would be our best bet for more people to show but it will cost me a bit more, $20, 200 to be exact. As for what's included already... Let me see here, they offer a rehearsal day that runs for an hour and fifteen minutes, a cottage for the bride and a cabin for the groom, ceremony/reception area that they'll put together with their own tables, chairs, linens, decor, and silverware. They provide lighting and a drinking area as well (bar service is additional so there'd be a fee for that). There's also a fire ring where we could roast marshmallows or make s'mores as a complimentary treat from this venue, and they'll also be providing blankets for the guests in case they want to get cozy. A smoking area too, which may not be needed because I don't really know anyone who smokes other than my brother. It's ADA accessible, and everyone will enjoy the convenience of their huge parking lot! Aside from that, they have an in-house chef who will be preparing the meals and they even offered to take care of our desserts. They gave us three options: to have a wedding cake if so desired, tasty and fancy cupcakes, or a classic pie and ice cream combo. Since neither my fiancé or I actually like cake, we'd probably go for the cupcakes or the pie. Same thing with the complimentary treat, we get one of out three and I chose the s'mores bar because how could I not? It's included in the whole package and wouldn't charge me a penny more. And they already provide a DJ, as well as a on-site coordinator at the rehearsal and wedding day. The only thing that isn't included would be photography and videography, but in their additional ad-on section they do offer their own photographers at an extra cost. We also have the liberty to bring in our own vendors, if so decided. But seeing as the venue is five hours from where I live, I'd rather just not have to bother with that. You get what I mean?

It depends for how many guests. I personally feel like it's a lot if you are having less than 200 guests. All inclusive packets usually costs more. I just got my venue for $3,000 and currently looking for catering but with everything I've seen I might only spend less than $2000 for catering & it's for approx 90 people. Our venue does the set up & tare down of chairs & tables & coordination as well. We dont need any decorations besides the centerpieces because it has string lights & greenery

Does it include chair and tables? I think the best way to go about this would be to develop your whole budget. So $15,200 for venue then whatever catering, bar, rentals, officiant, DJ, photographer, dress, etc. will cost. We are in Denver, paying $11,000 for our venue on a Saturday. It holds up to 300 people, we have the entire venue to ourselves for a full day, we get tables & chairs included for up to 200, some extra decor, a venue director for the day, free parking, and the venue itself is beautiful and needs minimal decor. So in my opinion, $15,200 is somewhat high. Our caterer includes cake cutting. Does it include all vendors?