These days, almost anything is negotiable – from the price of your car to the cost of your monthly gym membership, there’s always some deal to be had, if only you know how to ask.
But can this everything-is-negotiable principle be applied to the cost of your wedding venue? It sure can, as long as you know just what to say. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
First, Do your Research.
It’s impossible to negotiate a price without having a good understanding of the market. Select three or four venues and find out what kinds of packages each one offers. Once you have that information, go to your top choice and get down to business.
Ask for the Boss
An in-house event planner won’t have the authority (or motivation, since many work for commission) to lower standard pricing. Make sure you talk to someone who can, like the manager or owner.
Make an offer
Let’s say your favorite venue charges $100/person for the event space you want, but that figure is out of your budget. As long as your number and their written rate are not too far apart, you can suggest a price slightly below your maximum. This gives you both some wiggle room, but isn’t a non-starter for venue management.
Ask for Extras
Even if the venue won’t lower their number, that doesn’t mean the negotiation is over. Getting more for the same price is pretty much the same thing as paying less; see if you can get them to add a bridal suite or cocktail reception space to their existing package, at no additional charge. Remember, the more you’ll be spending, the more accommodating the venue will be, so if you plan on booking a block of rooms for out of town guests, or will be hosting an open (and free-flowing) bar, now’s the time to bring it up.
Be Ready to Walk Away
If you can’t picture your wedding anywhere but this one venue; you’ll lose a ton of leverage. Playing two venues against each other only works if you know full well that you can walk away from either. This puts you in a position of strengththe venue has much more to lose in the game than you do.
Put it in Writing
If and when you reach a compromise with the venue, be sure to quickly get a contract written up and signed, preferably that day, if possible. Include any negotiated add-onsnever rely on someone’s word that they’ll be providedthen get ready to work on your next vendor!