Wednesday, July 2, 2014

Wedding Wednesday: The Fine Print

Hidden Wedding Costs--
It's all those pricey extras that really make your bills add up. 

Take it from us -- READ the fine print!


CATERING FEES
Plating
Caterers charge by the plate for sit down dinners.  One guest equaling one plate.  Although family style is not less expensive than a served dinner, buffet style is.  Ask your caterer to walk you through the pricing if you're on the fence between your choices.

Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Anne Designs
Cake-Cutting
When anyone other than the in-house pastry chef makes your cake, your caterer will often charge to cut it.  Sometimes it's a flat fee and other times, it's per guest - which can really add up!

Corkage
Check with your caterer on corkage fees.  If you use the booze provided by your reception site, the charge is typically included with the total cost.  However, if you're providing your own alcohol, some venues will charge per bottle to have their staff open it.  

Photo courtesy of Frosted Pink Events
Service Charge
These are for non-food-related costs. They can tack on about 20 percent to your bill. 


DELIVERY FEES
Rentals
Usually, this is printed on your quote clearly, but know what you're looking for!  There will most likely be a delivery fee and shipping/handling fee.  If you don't see it, ask for this upfront.  

Welcome Bags
Hotels will often charge for distributing these, usually per bag.  If you're don't care for welcome bags to be room dropped, see if you're hotel will allow the front desk to distribute them when your guests check in. 

Photo courtesy of Signature 

VENUE FEES
Non-Approved Vendors
Some venues have a preferred vendor list.  Using vendors not on the list will land you with a fee!

Overtime 
If your vendors are booked for a certain amount of time, you'll be charged per hour if you're wedding runs over.  Factor these costs in from the beginning if you think it may be close!

Resort
Having a destination affair?  If your guests are not all staying on the property, there could be a fee for them to enter. 

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