Q and A - Reception Sites - Can You Negotiate The Rental Fee?

Q: In your article, "7 Ways to Save on your Wedding Reception Venue," you said to look around for a place that doesn’t have a rental fee. What if you love the place that has a high rental fee, is that fee negotiable?

Thanks for any advice. Will keep reading your blog!
- Randi Seplow -

A: When it comes to weddings – most services are negotiable – but it’s best to come prepped to the negotiating table. Do some background research to find out:

- When is your facility's offpeak season? You're more likely to negotiate a better deal during these months. (peak times vary depending on location and venue type)

- Are there days/times when rental fees are lower? Midweek or afternoon site rentals are almost always less and easier to negotiate.

- Does your venue provide additional wedding services such as catering, ceremonies, rental equipment, cakes, decor, accommodations, etc.? Usually, bundling a number of services together will help you negotiate better deals. They may be willing to eliminate or reduce the rental fee entirely, or they may offer you a lump discount for the entire package.

- Cori Russell, Style and Etiquette Editor, Wedding Expert