What kind of deposits to most reception sites require for weddings?

Question

We went to look at a reception site today and were expecting them to tell us the deposit to book the place was a certain percentage of the total cost (I've heard it could be like 30% or even 50%). We were really surprised when she told us the deposit is only $1,500 (it's a very nice place and a fairly big wedding). Do most places require much more than this?

Answer 1

Our location required $1000 within 30 days of booking. Then, 30 days before the event, they required 50% of the remaining estimated balance. Then 3 days before, they want to remaining part of the estimated balance. If you go over that amount of your wedding day or have something they can't plan for (a bar, for example) they charge your credit card, which they require to be on file, within 3 days after your event.

It's hard for a location to charge more than just a basic depoist early on because most have no idea about how many guest will be coming.

Answer 2

Congratulations on your engagement! Best of luck with your wedding and enjoy each other. The time goes by so fast.

Everyone asks for a deposit from the Officiant to the reception area. It does vary from where the location is, how their contract is set up, what they will provide and so on. Some locations if they are in high demand will NOT give you a refund on your deposit if you change your mind. They will explain that since they held the time/date for you they lost out on the chance to book it for such and such amount of money so please make sure the place you choose is the one you want to have your reception in.

Don't forget one key thing. Bargain with everyone! Get the quotes in writing and tell them... Well so and so offered me this for X amount of dollars... what can you do for me?

It is in your best interest to get the most out of your hard earned dollar. Don't be afraid to bargain and see what kind of great deals you can find. That is half the fun of planning!

Answer 3

it depends on where you have it. and what they style of the place is. we had our reception last year at a golf course and the deposit was $1000. that held our date, and basic table set up of the place. the deposit was alos applied to the final cost of the site. so instead of paying $8000 for food, we paid $7000 (this was also the absolute cheapest we could get) you should check to see if thats what they do at your site. im not sure where youre from, but here in cali. most deposits are $1000 and up, so yours sounds about right. good luck and congrats.

Answer 4

Our ceremony/reception site needed a deposit of $1000.

Answer 5

That sounds reasonable, as everyone has been saying too. I payed $1300 for booking the space. Then that cost is applied to the cost of the food, (so we'll be paying the estimated cost minus the deposit) ...

Answer 6

Usually security deposits in case any damage is done and yes the prices can vary from the size of the hall and $1,500 is not un-reasonable.

Answer 7

I have to give $500 every two months until we hit the $2500 mark (or we can just pay $2500 at the start, I think they spread it out so its not a big hit all at once for brides) Then I have to pay off the rest 2 weeks before the party when I give my final head count.

Answer 8

That is a reasonable deposit. Remember that there is nothing else involved, it is only to hold the place for a particular date.(good faith)

Answer 9

We had to give 750 right away and 750 six months later to secure the location. I think it depends on the location and the amount that they charge.